NRLW Season Changes Stir Controversial Reactions The recent announcement of changes to the NRLW season has sparked mixed reactions from players and pundits alike. Kylie Hilder: Dismay and Disappointment Melbourne Storm captain Kylie Hilder has expressed her disappointment with the decision to reduce the season from four to three games. Hilder believes that this move will limit the growth and development of the women’s game. “It’s a major step backward for our sport,” Hilder said. “We need more games, not less.” Isabelle Kelly: Optimism and Opportunity In contrast, St George Illawarra Dragons fullback Isabelle Kelly has taken a more positive view of the changes. She argues that the shorter season will allow players to better manage their workload and reduce the risk of injury. “It’s a sacrifice we have to make,” Kelly said. “But it will ultimately benefit the players in the long run.” Tahnee Norris: Concerns for Inclusivity Newcastle Knights forward Tahnee Norris has raised concerns about the impact of the reduced season on inclusivity. She believes that it could make it harder for new players to break into the competition. “We need to make sure that we’re not leaving anyone behind,” Norris said. “A shorter season could make it more difficult for young players to get their chance.” NRLW CEO: Balancing Growth and Sustainability NRLW CEO Angela Maleska has defended the decision to reduce the season, arguing that it is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the competition. “We’re still in the early stages of developing the NRLW,” Maleska said. “We need to find a balance between growth and sustainability.” Conclusion The changes to the NRLW season have sparked a debate about the future of the women’s game. While some players believe that the reduced season will hinder its development, others are optimistic that it will bring long-term benefits. The NRLW will need to carefully navigate these challenges as it continues to grow and evolve.By Jimmy MbogohBy Jimmy Mbogoh
Published on: June 28, 2024 08:49 (EAT) Netizens Share a List of Demands They Want Implemented Over the past week, protests against the Finance Bill 2024 have taken on a life of their own, with protesters taking to different social media platforms to express their frustration with the current government. The protest evolved into a call for government accountability and warnings were given to elected and appointed public officials about their conduct. When Gen Z first took to the streets, their call to action was crystal clear: reject the Finance Bill 2024. After days of sustained pressure, President Ruto was convinced to reconsider his stance on the Finance Bill that would have made Kenyans dig deeper into their pockets to fund government operations. However, the President’s late response to the matter partially opened the door to the inclusion of other issues that would be raised by citizens who presented a list of demands that they want the government to address. The youth have now made demands on the government with some calling for President Ruto to resign. At the top of the list posted online and designated as “non-negotiable” is the call for the Executive to obey all court orders and eliminate the illegal and illegitimate position of Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS), as well as the elimination of public funding of the Office of the First Lady, the Second Lady, and the spouse of the First Cabinet Secretary, and instead redirect those funds to the hiring of teachers and doctors. The list also calls for the elimination of the housing tax, the publication of audited records on how the funds have been used and refunds for all taxpayers. The list calls for immediate dismissal of all government officials with criminal records and integrity issues, while recommending to constitute the IEBC within the next 30 days and employ JSS intern teachers and doctors. Further demands have been made for the reduction of salaries and allowances of Members of Parliament, capping them at Ksh.200,000. Protesters insist that MPs should not earn more than doctors and are also calling for the reinstatement of the school feeding programme. To curb waste, the list advises that all government officials use government vehicles, trains and planes. The final demand is that the President resign from office.NRLW Season Changes Welcomed by Players Star players Kylie Hilder, Isabelle Kelly, and Tahnee Norris have endorsed the upcoming changes to the NRLW season. Hilder, the reigning Dally M Player of the Year, said the extended season would provide more opportunities for players to develop and showcase their skills. “I think it’s going to be a lot better for the game. We’re going to have more time to build our skills and improve as a competition,” Hilder said. Kelly, who represented Australia in Rugby 7s, echoed Hilder’s sentiments. She believes the longer season will help attract more talent to the league. “It’s going to be a real game-changer. It’s going to make it a lot more professional and it’s going to make it a lot more attractive for players to come and play in the NRLW,” Kelly said. Norris, a dual international in Rugby League and Rugby Union, welcomed the increased investment in the women’s game. “It’s a great step forward. It’s showing that women’s rugby league is a serious sport and that it’s here to stay,” Norris said. The NRLW season will be extended to 10 rounds in 2023, with each team playing two additional matches. The season will also be played under lights, providing greater visibility for the competition. The changes are part of the NRL’s commitment to developing and growing the women’s game. The NRLW has become increasingly popular in recent years, with record crowd attendances and television viewership.