Bid for Super Rugby Union must wait

13 August 2009

Sunshine Coast Rugby Union confirmed today that its bid to become the home of the new Super 15 Rugby Union side has been denied endorsement by the Australian Rugby Union and will not be put forward to Rugby Union governing body SANZAR.

The announcement comes after the Sunshine Coast's Expression of Interest already outperformed one applicant from New Zealand and one from regional New South Wales who had withdrawn from the process.

While successful shortlisted applicants will now prepare detailed proposals Sunshine Coast Rugby Union is using the opportunity to thank supporters and assure them that the battle isn't over.

Sunshine Coast Rugby Union Chairman Glenn Ferguson said he believed it was the support received by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and local residents that made the ARU pay attention.

"Our initial Expression of Interest demonstrated that while the Sunshine Coast has an unrivalled combination of lifestyle, infrastructure and an established rugby community it was our untapped potential to deliver a huge support base that made us a competitive applicant.

"Unlike other applicants the Sunshine Coast does not have a top tier football team in any code. Our supporter strength was confirmed thanks to the more than 3,000 people that registered their support on our website since mid July," Glenn said.

"Ultimately we believe that if the appropriate playing facilities for a top tier football team had been available now, our chances for success would have risen dramatically.

"The fact that we were recognised as a credible aspirant and likely home for Super Rugby proves that the Sunshine Coast should continue to dream big," Glenn said.

"We will move forward with our growth plans that support the need for a world-class stadium and build on our already highly competitive teams of players and coaches.

"We see the potential for the Super Rugby competition to continue to grow in coming years. When the opportunity arises the Sunshine Coast will be ready to takes its place on the international rugby stage," Glenn said.

Shortlisted applicants must deliver a full, detailed application to SANZAR by 18 September 2009. The governing body is expected to make its final decision on the 15th Super Rugby side in November 2009.