The RUPA Board has recently replaced three of its members for varying reasons, giving a new look with some fresh faces.
At the Queensland Reds, David Croft was replaced due to his sudden retirement from the game, whilst Stephen Moore was also replaced as a result of his move to Canberra. In place of these two guys come Peter Hynes, whose 2008 season has gone from strength to strength, and big Van Humphries, one of the great journeymen in Australian rugby. Both these guys have been in the game at a professional level for some time now, and hence will add valuable experience in their roles, as well as providing the crucial link as the players voice at the Reds.
At the Western Force, Nathan Sharpe has stood down from his role as a Board member, and in his place comes Gareth ?Boof? Hardy. Boof has also been playing professional rugby in Australia for a number of years, both at the Force and prior to that at the Waratahs. Not only does he bring experience to the role, but he is a man who is passionate about assisting in player issues.
Other members of the board continue to remain the same, being David Pusey of the Force, Adam Freier and Alistair Baxter of the Waratahs, and Clyde Rathbone and Guy Shepherdson of the Brumbies. John Welborn remains the Past Player representative based in Perth, whilst Rod Kafer maintains the role of President and Tony Dempsey as Executive Director.
The RUPA would like to thank the three departing members of the Board for their time and commitment shown in their respective roles. All three have been significant contributors, providing a crucial link between the players and the big issues in the game.
The new look Board met on Thursday December 11th to discuss the RUPA Strategic plan heading into 2009. All of the RUPA staff was also present, including PACD representatives.
