The Rebels have announced a new board structure, aiming to bring the professional and community elements closer together.
VRU chairman Tim North will now sit on the Rebels board, with Rebels deputy chairman Paul Docherty sitting on the VRU board.
The VRU regained ownership of the Rebels in August, after former owner, Imperium Sports Management exercised a put option, that returned the club for just $1.
This new structure aims to bring the grassroots and professional parts of the Victorian game closer together, a statement said on Tuesday night.
VRU and Rebels chairman Tim North said the move was a critical one.
"The VRU endorsement of the new Rebels board heralds a new beginning that will see a high level of collaboration between professional rugby and community rugby,” he said in a statement
Docherty said this was part of plenty of change to come for the team.
“Today’s announcement ushers in an exciting new era for the Melbourne Rebels and for rugby here in Victoria,” Docherty said.
“The recent appointment of David Wessels and the strengthening of the Rebels’ squad, following a number of experienced key signings, has established a powerful platform for on and off field success for the club.
“I’m delighted to contribute to Victorian rugby through the Rebels and VRU board, as I have a lifetime and history of experience in grassroots rugby in Victoria and Canberra.”
The Rebels board is set to add more directors in ‘the future’.
BOARD
Rebels board
Tim North, Chairman
Paul Docherty, Vice-Chairman
Lyndsey Cattermole
Bob Dalziel
Owain Stone
Neil Hay
Gary Gray
