PORT Macquarie rugby league coaches Jamie Dowse and Dan Kemp believe there is plenty of merit in talk of a cross-conference concept between Group 2 and Group 3 competitions.
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While the finer details are yet to be confirmed, both groups have said they are willing to discuss the possibility of making it a reality in coming years.
“Let’s create a bit of interest in bush footy,” Dowse said when asked about the concept.
“It would mean a few more rounds which means more player payments, but it will attract interest which is good for gate takings.
“I’m a fan of it.”
Dowse said a Superbowl-type fixture at the end of each season would be a good way to start.
“We have two strong competitions, so why not start with the winners of the Group 2 and Group 3 grand finals playing each other,” he said.
“It’s a good chance to play against other clubs and see where you’re at; I’d love to play a side like the Grafton Ghosts or Coffs Harbour.”
The Sharks coach admitted the Group 3 season was a few rounds too short and needed to be looked at.
“We’re probably the only group in the CRL that has a 12 or 14-round competition,” he said.
“People talk about travel, but out in Group 10 some of those sides travel two and a half or three hours to games.”
Breakers coach Dan Kemp welcomed the possibility of seeing how his side would shape up against some of Group 2’s best.
“It would be exciting to be able to play different opposition,” he said.
Kemp echoed Dowse’s sentiments that the Group 3 fixture list required a bit of tweaking.
“14 regular season games is a touch too short,” he said.
“We had 18 games a few seasons ago which was perfect because if you got to the grand final you’d play about 20 games which was ideal.
“A lot of water has got to go under the bridge yet, but the more games we can play the better; the boys love playing footy.”
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