Otley squad accept wage decrease (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Otley squad accept wage decrease

6:54pm Wednesday 4th March 2009 in Sport By Dave Craven

Otley Rugby Union Club’s players have given up a third of their wages but insisted they will carry on representing the crisis-hit outfit.

Rumours have been rife for weeks about the financial situation at Cross Green, with some squad members having wages paid late and others being allowed to leave to ease the burden.

The National League One team – who are currently second from bottom and staring relegation in the face – finally released a statement today admitting they have brokered a deal with deeply-concerned players.

It read: “Following a series of meetings between club officials and players, they have accepted a cut in salary across the whole squad of approximately 33 per cent.

“This has been necessary due to the fall in sponsorship levels and gates as a result of the uncertainty surrounding the RFU decision in November to form the Championship, resulting in almost certain relegation for the bottom five clubs in the current National League One.

“Future funding for next season has still not been officially confirmed by the RFU but the best estimate has indicated relegation will result in a drop of over £150,000 in RFU support.

“This will have a catastrophic effect on future player budgets for next season.

“The club is extremely grateful for the co-operation of the players during the difficult negotiations and the continued support of its loyal supporters.”

One player – who didn’t want to be named – said: “All we can really say at the moment is we will be continuing to play for the rest of the season.

“There have been rumours we won’t be fulfilling fixtures but the players are going to honour their agreements.”

Otley face a tough trip to fifth-placed Nottingham on Sunday.