NRL Side Canberra Raiders Urges NRL To Introduce Transfer Fees, Deter Poaching

National Rugby League Canberra Raiders development officers "have demanded the NRL overhaul the system to reward clubs who develop juniors as they try desperately to keep star rookie Anthony Milford," according to Jon Tuxworth of the CANBERRA TIMES. The Raiders' frustration is "reaching breaking point as they face the prospect of losing another youngster they've spent years developing." Canberra High Performance & Recruitment Manager David Hamilton urged the NRL to "seriously consider introducing transfer fees to deter clubs from poaching players others have nurtured." Hamilton, "disillusioned by other clubs benefiting from Canberra Raiders development," said that the NRL must "introduce incentives for clubs to develop their own talent." Hamilton: "There has to be some sort of deterrent there. Even if it is compassionate grounds, what about all the money that's been invested in Anthony? Surely the club is entitled to some sort of benefits back" (CANBERRA TIMES, 8/7).