The Mole: Cabramatta’s Controversial Decision to Pull Ron Massey and Sydney Shield Teams After Just Two Rounds

Cabramatta Leagues Club has decided to withdraw its teams from the Ron Massey and Sydney Shield competitions after only two rounds of play.

The Two Blues, who only recently returned to Ron Massey following a lengthy hiatus, were enjoying an unbeaten start in both leagues before pulling the plug due to financial difficulties.

This decision has left young players from both squads devastated, as they will likely be unable to find spots on other teams and are now facing the prospect of missing the 2025 season.

“It’s appalling – how can this be allowed to happen?” voiced one frustrated parent in an interview with Wide World of Sports.

“These kids dedicated themselves during the summer training hard and kicked off the season in fantastic form. Now, their teams have just been disbanded – they are heartbroken.

“Surely the NRL or a sponsor could step in to salvage the situation.”

The club released a statement on social media on Wednesday, outlining the reasoning behind their decision.

“During a board meeting in August 2024, it was determined that the Cabra Leagues Two Blues would only be permitted to compete in Ron Massey and Sydney Shield if both teams secured full funding from sponsorships,” the statement read.

Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

“The senior football committee presented a business model for the 2025 competition to the board of the Cabramatta Rugby League Club, which was heavily reliant on sponsorship.

“Regrettably, the anticipated funding was not achieved, and agreements were made without proper authority from the Cabramatta Rugby League Club, which led to the team competing and playing two matches. As a result, unfortunately, the board must prioritise the financial security of the club and has resolved not to proceed with participation in the Ron Massey and Sydney Shield competitions.”