20 year-old Jack Bird is expected to re-sign with the Cronulla Sharks in the new-year after reportedly telling the Dragons that his future, at least in the short-term, would remain in the Shire.
No matter where Jack Bird ends up playing in 2017 and beyond, one thing to come out of this chapter has proven both refreshing, and to be honest, pleasant to hear.
Bird has admitted that money has been a big factor in deciding whether he would continue to ply his trade in the black, white and blue, or move back to his junior club the Dragons.
It may not be what fans of either club want to hear, but I want to offer two words to Jack Bird; THANK YOU!
As a fan, I am sick of players saying that money doesn’t play a big role in their decision making process when negotiating a contract.
Of course it does. Everyone is entitled to make the most out of their talents and skills, especially those in big demand.
I’m sure that some players are genuine in saying that money is not the main factor when choosing a club. It isn’t everything. Environment, being close to family, and premiership chances are three other factors.
That being said, I can’t name a player who has offered to play for free either.
Let’s be real here, these guys have a limited career span. Bird won’t be playing footy when he’s in his fifties.
This is a young, extremely talented man, with a condition that may play a part in his future.
I can’t blame the kid in any way, shape or form, in trying to maximise his earnings for both himself and possibly a future family.
I certainly won’t blame him for coming out and saying what is likely true for 99% of players, that money is a big factor in contract negotiations.
Right now I am extremely happy in my job. I love my workplace, I’m surrounded by great people, and have a very good team to back me.
If a rival company was to come out tomorrow and offer to double my wages, I’d be packed up having signed a contract to jump ship so quickly heads would spin.
I have a family, ongoing expenses, and I want to be able to provide the best possible life for my wife and children.
Just because these footballers play a professional sport doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be able to do the exact same.
That being said I can certainly understand when fans become annoyed at hearing players are willing to do whatever it takes to maximise their earnings.
Some of the tricks being employed by players and their managers to bleed every cent out of clubs is frustrating.
Loyalty can only go so far and it certainly won’t pay the bills.
Premierships are another brilliant aspect of our game but I don’t know too many banks who accept big moments, crowds and great atmosphere as payment.
These are men who risk life and limb every week to entertain millions of fans.
Although sometimes in the moment I get frustrated at players threatening to boycott when they’re on $500,000 plus a year to do what they love, but the money is there and they have every right to chase it.
It’s good to hear a player admit it for once.
I guess for others it’s just a coincidence how many times the club that best fits the player is also the one who offers a contract with lots of zeros.
The Tigers are expected to announce young forward Aaron Woods as captain of the club for 2016.
Given the way the Farah saga has played out through the media, the likely decision to appoint Wood looks to be spot on.
He is already looked upon as a leader by less experienced players, while he is one who certainly looks to lead by example.
The move would also allow Farah, who I still believe can be one of the Tigers top players, to focus on his game, and also separates him from coach Jason Taylor.
Woods is a brilliant player with a long and bright future ahead of him. The chance to captain his side should ensure he spends a large majority of his career at the club.
A good decision all around.
Paul Green has turned down the role as coach of the Queensland state side, joining Michael Hagan in ruling himself out of the running for the role.
Although the Maroons have missed out on their top choice it’s hardly time to worry.
Any side containing the talent that the Maroons boast can almost coach themselves.
Cameron Smith, if he wishes to take that path, is a man I would not be surprised at seeing succeed greatly at the top level.
As captain he already plays a huge role in the setup, giving whoever ends up in the role a big advantage.
It’s likely that a former Origin player will take up the role with Kevin Walters the most likely to take over.
His experience in the cauldron-like atmosphere gives him an edge.
Players are picked for Origin based on ability, they don’t need to run drills at training.
The head coaching role is mainly motivational and tactical.
Kevin Walters, as a player, certainly had no problem with either of those aspects of the game.