The Weston Bears are one of many clubs from Maitland and the Hunter Valley relieved to see a tumultuous period in Northern NSW Football history come to an end following the reinstatement of CEO David Eland.
Eland was sacked from his role in October last year sparking controversy from within the organisation and across the sporting community, but yesterday, less than two months out from the start of the 20102 season, he returned to football’s top job in the region.
The news was met with relief by Bears football manager Shane Johnson, who said the entire exercise had been a complete misuse of resources.
“We [Weston] are pleased, like everyone else, that it has all wrapped up, that it’s all done and dusted,” he said.
“But it has probably cost the game somewhere around the six figure mark which is just ridiculous. The whole thing has really been a waste of money, time and energy.”
Johnson said the best thing to come out of the saga was the reshuffling of Northern’s board after they had showed Eland the door.
“I think a lot of people out there weren’t happy with the previous board and I think there will be a fairer representation now,” Johnson said.
“There will be more opportunity for more people to represent the football of Northern NSW than there has previously been.
“That is the only positive to come out of it all.”
Johnson said the exact reasons behind Eland’s dismissal remained a mystery because “there was no valid reason given as to why he was removed”.
Eland, who was replaced by former Newcastle United general manager Jock Graham, said he looked forward to returning.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to return to Northern NSW Football and I can’t wait to get back to work,” Eland said.
“My sudden departure last year resulted in a considerable amount of unfinished business that I’m keen to progress.
“I have had great support from stakeholders, Northern NSW Football members and in particular the new board, executive and staff of Northern NSW Football.
“To them I wish to extend my sincere gratitude for their commitment to keeping their eye on the ball across this turbulent, emotional and disruptive couple of months.”
Newly appointed Northern NSW chairman Bill Walker, who had initially resigned over the sacking of Eland, endorsed yesterday’s announcement.
“This is a great outcome for the organisation and the sport throughout Northern NSW,” Walker said.
“The reinstatement of David [Eland] as CEO reflects the members’ wishes and positions the sport well for the future.
“My fellow board members share my excitement and relief at having David back, with the opportunity for him to continue the outstanding work in the promotion and development of the game across Northern NSW.”
In other football news, the Bears
pre-season kicks off Saturday week (February 18) with a trial against Sydney outfit Marconi Fairfield at Thomas and Coffey Park.
This will be followed by the opening round of the State Cup on March 10, also at home, against West Wallsend.
Further trials against Charlestown City (away) and Broadmeadow Magic (home) will be played by the Bears in ensuing weeks before their 2012 State League campaign begins on April 8 against South Cardiff.
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