As part of the Newcastle Rugby League’s proposed restructure for 2017, Country Rugby League has agreed to assume the administration responsibilities of the Hunter Valley Combined Competition from 2016.

Former Newcastle Rugby League General Manager John Fahey has been appointed as Competitions Manager and will begin duties on Monday, 2 November.

Country Rugby League CEO Terry Quinn believed Fahey’s appointment was a positive move for the future of the Hunter Valley Combined Competition.

“John (Fahey) brings a wealth of experience and local knowledge to the position and has a great understanding of where we want to take the competition,” Quinn said.

“The Hunter Valley Combined Competition is a vital component of Country Rugby League which we are looking at expanding with the introduction of new teams, new formats and Ladies League Tag.

“This is also an opportunity to ensure clubs who wish to enter teams in the competition have the necessary governance and business models to allow them to achieve sustainable growth.”

The Hunter Valley Combined Competition was formed in 1999 and currently caters for over 2500 13-17-year-olds from Group 21 Junior Rugby League, Maitland and District Junior Rugby League and Newcastle Junior Rugby League Association.

The competition was previously administered by the Newcastle Rugby League on behalf of the CRL.