Cronulla Sharks agree PointsBet stadium naming rights deal

In the latest in a series of new venue naming rights deals, the Cronulla Sharks home ground will now be known as PointsBet Stadium after the online bookmaker signed a four-year partnership with the NRL club.

PointsBet is Australia’s fastest growing online bookmaker and is successfully taking on the large international players that have dominated the Australian online betting market in recent times.

The PointsBet logo will also feature on the sternum of the Sharks jersey.

Annnouncing the deal, Sharks General Manager of Commercial, Chris Highett stated “PointsBet is setting new standards in the sports betting industry in Australia and around the world and we’re excited they have shown great faith in our club by partnering up with the Sharks on this long-term arrangement.

“Starting with our round five game against the Roosters, the Sharks will be playing out of PointsBet Stadium and we look forward to a long and positive relationship with the team at PointsBet.”

PointsBet co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Andrew Fahey added “we are thrilled to be entering a long-term partnership with the Cronulla Sharks.

“They have ambitious plans both on and off the field and we look forward to being part of their success.

“There is nothing better than watching footy at a traditional suburban ground like at Cronulla and you won’t find a more loyal, passionate supporter base than Sharks fans.

“The announcement of PointsBet Stadium is something we are very proud of.”

The Sharks became the first Australian sports team to sell their home venue naming rights in 1985 when their Endeavour Field home ground became Ronson Park. Since then it has been known as Caltex Field, Toyota Park/Stadium, LG Park, Remondis Stadium and, most recently, the Southern Cross Group Stadium.

Fans generally refer to the venue as Shark Park.

New Sharks Chief Executive
The Cronulla Sharks have announced the appointment of Richard Munro as its new Chief Executive.

The role means Munro will be responsible for the operations of both the Football Club and the Leagues Club following the completion of his current contract as the Chief Executive of the Accommodation Association of Australia in May.

Looking forward to his new role, Munro said he is a long-time rugby league fan and is excited to lead the Sharks in the next phase of their club history.

He advised “I am determined to ensure the Sharks are successful both on and off the field.

“That can only happen if we run the club as professionally and successfully as any other club in the game.

“The club has been through some challenges in the last couple of years, but they are behind us now and the time has come to build a business which will ensure the long-term success of the Sharks."

Sharks Chairman, Dino Mezzatesta, said this appointment comes at a crucial time in the club’s history, adding “Richard’s track record of leadership, stability and growth are just what the club is looking for as we seek to become a leading NRL franchise.

“The Sharks are now in a sound financial position and our focus shifts to building new world-class facilities at Woolooware, improving our core business operations and ensuring our fans continue to have a strong team on the field.

“Those things can only happen if you have a strong front office and that is what Richard will deliver for us.”

Sharks Board member Steven Mace will take on the Group Chief Executive role on an interim basis until Munro takes up the position full time in May.

Venue naming rights are explored in a feature in the latest issue of Australasian Leisure Management.