NRL: Cougars and Panthers go Separate Ways...

[Titanium_BD1103]

This is sad to see... I really reckon this venture worked and it is a shame that the Poker machine tax has seen it end, as it has been very successful not just for the St Marys Cougars, but for the Penrith Panthers as well...

Good luck to the Cougars and here's hoping they can still give the Panthers some great junior talent in years to come...

From: www.panthers.com.au

Jul 31 - The partnership that saw the formation of the St Marys-Penrith Cougars will end this year.

The decision was jointly announced today by the clubs.

"The decision, which was an extremely difficult one to make, can be attributed to the significant impact upon our profitability as a result of the increase in poker machine taxation, the expected impact on revenue as a result of smoking legislation and the fact that we have committed to a major building program and the development of our existing club site," Warren Smith, President of St Marys Rugby League Club, said today.

Mr Smith said there was no denying that the partnership with Penrith had been a success. "However, after four enjoyable years, including a grand final appearance, a semi-final campaign and with another play-off date beckoning, St Marys Rugby League Club and Penrith Panthers will go their separate ways in season 2007."

Panthers Chairman Barry Walsh said the club was sad to see the joint venture end. "It has been a great partnership which was good for rugby league.

"However, we totally understand where St Marys is coming from and thank them for their support over the last four years.

"Panthers will continue to support a Premier League team just as we do Jersey Flegg," Mr Walsh said.

[Souths'n'Titans]

Lucky souths got Norths

[Super Cronk]

I have seen some really good cougar games the past couple of years or so. Also seen many young kids come through the junior ranks...sad that they have split....but there is alot of talent out there for the Panthers to pick up still.

[Eel 33]

With a nursery as big as what the Panthers have, they won't have any probs with juniors. Good partnership for area to promote the areas junior stocks.