The NRL has revealed that its Head of Game Strategy and Development Shane Richardson is leaving the organisation in order to return to former club South Sydney.
Richardson will take on a new role as General Manager of Football at Souths, having joined the NRL in 2015 to draw up a blueprint for the game’s future with a special focus on developing a strategy for elite pathways.
ARLC Chairman John Grant said Shane’s contribution had been critical in defining the future of the game’s elite pathways.
“He has completed the strategy and has been offered a long term role at Souths so this is the logical time to make the change,” he said.
“His experience at the NRL has given him a unique insight into the game that he did not have before and he leaves on the best of terms.”
Richardson himself admitting to enjoying his time with the NRL, but says the hands-on role at Souths was an opportunity he couldn’t turn down.
“I really enjoyed the experience of working at NRL headquarters but this new role – and its direct involvement with the players and the game – is what I want to do next in life,” he said.
“I am looking forward to moving from a strategic role back to the coal face.”
