The Professional Rugby League Match Officials Incorporated (PRLMO) has appointed current Director and former NRL player, Matt Rodwell to the role of Chairperson at this week’s Annual General Meeting. Rodwell played 188 First Grade games both in Australia and the English Super League. He also held the position of CEO of the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) between 2006 and 2009. Rodwell brings significant managerial and leadership acumen to the role as a current General Manager working in the insurance sector.
Rodwell’s appointment comes at a crucial time for match officials as the EBA negotiations with the National Rugby League are set to begin in early 2022. Rodwell appreciates the opportunity to lead the PRLMO “I am honored to be appointed Chair and will continue to work with the Board to ensure our members are recognised as key stakeholders of the game, are consulted on relevant issues and are respected for their challenging roles”.
The PMRLO also welcomes two new Directors to the Board in former First Grade Referees Gavin Morris (2010-2015, 98 games) and Adam Cassidy (2019, 11 games). Both Morris and Cassidy bring a wealth of officiating experience and the unique insights which can only be gained from officiating at the highest level of the game.
Rodwell formally acknowledges and thanks out-going Chair Silvio Del Vecchio on behalf of the Board as he stands down from the role to focus on other projects. “Silvio was key in the establishment of the PRLMO in 2015 and has been instrumental in achieving improved conditions and remuneration for PRMLO members”.
Also stepping away from the Board is Rohan Best who will be focusing on his career and young family. Rohan has made significant contributions to the PRLMO as a former First Grade match official and has bought a new level of professionalism to the digital and communications activities of the organisation. Existing Directors, Martin Ryan, Jessica Macartney and Peter Remfrey will continue to serve on the Board.
