Tweed Seagulls boss opens up on future of the club

His stint as interim CEO mutated into a much bigger task and now Tweed boss Matt Francis opens up on the future of the club.

HIS stint as interim CEO mutated into a much bigger task but Tweed boss Matt Francis insists the Seagulls are well placed to survive the coronavirus scourge.

Long considered the Intrust Super Cup’s shoestring underdogs, Tweed have been joined by clubs across Australia in a fight to navigate the economic crisis.

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It’s unclear what funding, if any, will continue to be provided by NRL parent clubs and the QRL, but Francis declared the Seagulls will find a way to survive regardless.

“Things have dried up in the short-term and some of our sponsors are also hurting,” he said.

“But the directors have been working hard and we know we’ll be viable and ready to go whatever shape the competition takes next year.

Intrust Super Cup match between Ipswich Jets and Tweed Seagulls.

“That’s the main message we want to get out to members and partners: we will be here next year ready to play our role.

“We have a great group of young men and women. As hard as it is we’re working our way through it and we’re united.”

Tweed’s under-18 side last year claimed a remarkable national title to add to a growing legacy of juniors in the region.

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After fielding a team in the inaugural QRLW, Francis said it’s vital his club looks after every aspect of the game on the Tweed.

Tweed Seagulls' Jessika Elliston. Photo: SCOTT POWICK

“Rugby league will have a vital part to play in bringing people back together,” he said.

“We’re working on strategies in terms of community engagement.

“While there’s a lot of focus on the NRL we have a vested interest in our juniors and our elite pathways.

“The talent we have in our junior pathways is equal to any in the NRL and we need to continue to provide a pathway to the NRL.”

Francis took on the Tweed CEO role on an interim basis in March after the exit of Paul Stephenson to the QRL.

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The former Titans and Eels employee joked it’s been “good timing” to get the post and the club is “stuck with me”, but is determined to help navigate this challenging time.

“I have worked in rugby league a long time and I’m happy to serve while the club recalibrates what this club might look like next year,” he said.

“They were going to advertise the role but obviously it’s not the best time. But I’m happy to do what I can.”