Sharks ASADA case: While Cronulla’s future is unclear, at least fans can finally get some closure

THE wait is over. Sharks fans are relieved to know what they are dealing with and can move forward with certainty. BUZZ COMMENT.

THE wait is finally over. For almost two years we’ve been hearing on almost a weekly basis that charges and show-cause notices against Cronulla Sharks players have been imminent.

At long last they have arrived, much to the relief of Sharks fans.

Today is not a day we have been dreading. In fact it is exactly the opposite.

To move forward after two years of uncertainty, the ASADA case had to be dealt with.

That the club has survived this far with increased membership and sponsorship is a tribute to the spirit and resilience of players, fans, members and officials.

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Paul Gallen pictured at the meeting today. Pic - Sam Ruttyn

Those who predicted the crisis would force the Sharks to merge, relocate or die are wrong.

Rockhampton is a million miles away.

In fact the Cronulla Sharks are in a far better financial position than most other clubs to handle this crisis and the long, expensive legal battles that lie ahead.

Sales from the $300 million Woolooware Bay development will ensure $30 to $35 million of income to the Sharks over three to four years.

On top of that is the lucrative annual income from retail leasing.

No other club in the game, not even in the Broncos, has that amount of revenue guaranteed.

Obviously there is still a long way to go.

It’s hard to imagine the Sharks players, current or former, just accepting their bans.

Some could get weeks, months or years.

Wade Graham, Anthony Tupou and Nathan Gardner leave their lawyer Richard Redman's office in Pitt St today Picture: Toby Zerna

They are entitled to defend themselves and their reputations, using any legal avenue that is available.

They have already dealt with enormous pressure, stress and strain because of how this bungling investigation has been handled since day one.

That they have turned up to work every day, every week for every game under such trying circumstances is a credit to the players and the entire staff.

The hope for Sharks fans was that this scandal wouldn’t drag on into a third season.

The immediate future is still about as clear as mud. But today is a start.

At least now we can aim towards closure … and then chase that elusive premiership.

The old porch light is still on.

Originally published as Sharks ASADA case: While Cronulla’s future is unclear, at least fans can finally get some closure