Interim Wests Tigers boss Shane Richardson has denied a conflict of interest after recently signing a development player managed by his son for the company he part owns.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported Richardson declared all pre-existing interests to the Tigers board before accepting a six-month role as the club’s CEO in order to avoid accusations of conflicts.
Richardson, who replaced ousted Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe is the co-founder and shareholder of Rich Digital – a consultancy firm that includes NRL player agent accreditation.
The accreditation is owned by Brent Richardson, the son of Richardson, who just signed Solomona Faataape, the Tigers’ final development deal until 2024.
After leading the Easts Tigers to victory in the Queensland Cup the previous season, Faataape declined a 16-week train-and-trial offer from the Broncos in order to work with Tigers coach Benji Marshall.
Richardson’s first signing with the team before Christmas was Faataape, and concerns about a possible conflict of interest were voiced.
Regarding Faataape’s deal, Richardson denied having any conflicts of interest.
“A conflict of interest does not exist,” Richardson declared.
“I am not authorised to negotiate contracts with players. All of that has always stood by my son. In the end, all was revealed, Wests Tigers are fully aware of every circumstance, and nothing has been kept a secret from anyone.
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