Sheffield Eagles Board Of Directors Statement | 4th September 2024
04/09/2024
Sheffield Eagles Board Of Directors Statement | 4th September 2024
Further to the club’s statement of 29th July, the Sheffield Eagles Board of Directors would like to provide an update on the medical compliance matter which has resulted in the club, Head Coach Mark Aston, and Physio Mick Heys, being called to face an Operational Rules Tribunal.
On Wednesday 21st August, all participants attended a Directions Hearing, during which the ORT Chair sought to review the paperwork submitted by the RFL and by the three parties facing the charges. The Tribunal acknowledged that detailed production of documents as well as preparing witness statement evidence were needed. Mark Aston was represented by Front Row legal solicitors following a recommendation for the participants to seek their own independent advice which Mark has chosen to do. The final hearing for the Tribunal was set for Thursday 17th October.
All parties are continuing to work co-operatively with the RFL ahead of the Tribunal with interim dates agreed for the RFL to submit a detailed statement of case to the other parties and for the other parties to respond with any further evidence and witness statements. Both Mark Aston and Mick Heys have ongoing access to welfare support via the club’s chaplain and via Rugby League Cares if requested. Both have been invited to attend the 40th Anniversary Dinner on Thursday 5th September to celebrate their lengthy and significant contributions to the club’s history.
Whilst the Board understands that there is significant interest in the case from its stakeholders, especially from its loyal supporters who would like to gain a fuller understanding of the situation, the Board asks for understanding that in order to protect the interests of all those involved in the Tribunal, it will not make a further statement on this matter until after the results of the Operational Rules Tribunal are known.
ENDS
