Bulldog’s Bite: Rugby League’s top officials, administrators since 1989 ranked

After seeing Manly CEO Tony Mestrov hold his nerve during a week of escalating tension, DEAN RITCHIE ranks his top 20 rugby league administrators since 1989, including one who left his ears ringing.

What a week for Tony Mestrov at Manly.

The Sea Eagles CEO was plagued by media pressure, fan dissent, online trolls and his 334-game captain, Daly Cherry-Evans, who unexpectedly announced he was quitting the club.

Yet Mestrov held his nerve despite escalating tension and adversity.

His efforts made me think about all the club officials — CEOs, chairmen, general managers and directors — I have dealt with since starting at The Daily Telegraph back in late 1989.

He’s only been the Manly Sea Eagles CEO for less than three years, but Tony Mestrov held his nerve during a testing week for the club. Picture: AAP

Ranking them has already caused consternation and while I couldn’t find a place in my top 20 for Mestrov – he’s only been Sea Eagles boss for less than three years — I did include Manly’s Ken Arthurson, Bob Fulton and Scott Penn.

NOTABLE OMISSIONS:

Todd Greenberg, Graham Annesley, Paul Morgan, Frank Ponissi, Peter Doust, David Trodden, Geoff Bellew, Neil Whittaker, Steve Noyce, Keith Barnes, Laurence Lancini, and John McIntyre.