Some clubs have morals.
Of course some don't, but I know of at least 2 examples where other clubs have asked the same questions as the Chooks and gotten a "NO" response from the NRL. Whilst the Chooks have gotten a "YES" response to the same questions, one was before the Chooks asked and, amazingly, one was after.
A example, the Chooks promised SBW $250k but the NRL limited it to $150k so they were allowed to give the $100k difference to SBW's charity "Gold for Good" . Which he had already promised from his earnings. The NRL approved this and 2 other clubs complained based on them having been knocked back previously with a similar request.
The NRL also waived the rules around players being able to hold two contracts, specifically for SBW. Abdo said at the time was the start of an NRL push to change eligibility rules. The Wabbits applied for an registration exemption for Suaalii, which the NRL knocked back. But when the Chooks applied they granted it, yes, yes, we have all heard the spin about how fantastic the Chooks application was, backed by teachers, doctors and phycologists. But basically it was the same applications for an almost 18 year old to be allowed a registered NRL contract. Then after 5 games he gets a season ending ankle injury, doesn't say much for the doctors report that he was physically ready for NRL.
So far 3 similar exemptions have been granted to clubs by the NRL, all 3 of them have been for the Chooks. No one else has been granted an
exemption.
Always a Bulldog