|
|
|
 TEIVOVO.COM - FRU NEWS
|
|
Wednesday 17 January 2007
FRU resolves sponsorship issue with Ryder
The Fiji Rugby Union decided Tuesday not to suspend William Ryder from involvement with the Digicel Fiji 7s team, leaving his selection for next month’s Wellington 7s highly likely.
The decision follows discussions between the FRU and a third-party company with whom Ryder had signed a personal endorsement that breached his FRU contract.
“The company has given us a written commitment that they will not use Ryder’s image for any products that conflict with official FRU products,” chief executive officer Timoci Tavanavanua said. “They will end their deal with Ryder at the end of this year – which is three years early.”
“We’re very pleased with this outcome. This solution appears to satisfy all parties.”
“Their concession solves a number of difficult issues, but I hope this is a lesson to all contracted players,” Tavanavanua said. “The FRU relies heavily on sponsorship revenue to operate, pay players, send teams on tours etc. It is imperative that we protect our sponsors.”
In March 2006, the FRU gave Ryder a full-time rugby contract that includes a basic salary, various allowances and bonuses, plus medical insurance.
“We do appreciate that despite proper briefings and explanations, the obligations that come with a contract are not always fully understood by some players,” Tavanavanua said.
FRU main page |
|
