Wayne Bridge to make decision on whether to stand again as Group 3 chairman in coming weeks

Since 2008 he's been chairman, but over the last two years he has had more time on his hands as a result of the COVID pandemic which has wreaked havoc on community sport.

As a result, he has indicated the motivation and drive required to continue on as chairman beyond 2021 has understandably started to wane.

And who can blame him.

But should he not continue as chairman for the 2022 season it provides Group 3 - and rugby league on the Mid-North Coast in general - with an opportunity to start fresh.

Port City Breakers president Geoff Kelly would be a possible successor, but he appears satisfied to continue his role with the Breakers as well continue on as senior vice-president of the group.

"Wayne has been a great leader for Group 3 and if he steps down, we wish him all the best," Kelly told the Port News.

"Is it a chance for a change? There's always that possibility. The north has been very strong for the last 10-12 years and like anything, Country Rugby League is used to having problems and there is always time for positive change.

"Let's see what we can do as a group if the right person puts their hand up for the job next year ... barring COVID."

Wauchope Blues president Aaron Ison admitted it would be a chance for a new start although he felt the current Group 3 board had done an admirable job in trying conditions.

"Someone new always puts their spin on it and that can't be a bad thing," he said.

"But I don't agree with a lot of things that get thrown around about how the southern teams get looked after more than anyone else.

"I haven't got a bad word to say about the group, they keep me well informed. You wouldn't want to be in their shoes over the last two years."

Macleay Valley Mustangs secretary Reuben Jones echoed Ison and Kelly's sentiments, saying he can't fault the effort Bridge has put in over the years.

"It's even more thankless than being a club president because you're the guy enforcing the rules and everyone's arguing with you," he said.

He felt change was sometimes required, but it wasn't an envious job.

"There are some pretty big decisions to be made sometimes and it takes a special type of person to do it," he said.

"If needed, whoever takes it on will have to be committed, that's for sure."

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