MEDIA RELEASE – March 14, 2014

SHANE FLANAGAN FILES NO APPEAL AGAINST SUSPENSION

Shane Flanagan, head coach of the Cronulla Sharks, has decided not to appeal against the NRL CEO’s decision confirming his interim suspension.

Flanagan said: “I am bitterly disappointed that submissions made in response to the interim suspension were not accepted.

Flanagan was, however, pleased that there was no finding that he had involvement in the supplement program.

“To me, that’s the important exoneration. The adverse findings concerning me were only about the Club’s governance in 2011 when, as Mr Smith also accepted, the Sharks were under-resourced and without a Chief Executive.”

“But,” he said. “The only thing I want everyone to understand out of all this is that I am no drug cheat. I will happily engage with the NRL on its continuing education requirements. Getting back to coaching at the Sharks as soon as possible is my sole priority.

“I would like to thank the Cronulla Sharks for their unwavering support of me throughout this most difficult time and urge all Sharks fans to continue to support this great Club.” Flanagan added.

This statement has been issued on behalf of Shane Flanagan, his management and his legal representative Keith Bagley.