The Rugby Football League (RFL) have suspended two members of staff pending investigation, including former Super League referee Robert Hicks.
As reported first by Rugby League Live, Hicks and Kerry Simmons have both been suspended by the RFL following an issue raised under the governing body’s Public Interest Disclosure Policy.
Following his decision to step away from his match official role in 2021, Hicks was appointed the RFL’s director of operations and legal and has been working behind the scenes at the organisation ever since. He has also taken on a company secretary role.
The 43-year-old enjoyed a successful career as a referee having spent 10 years on the RFL’s panel of full-time officials. He took charge of over 500 first-team games, including two Challenge Cup finals, two Grand Final and two World Club Challenges. He has also officiated at three World Cups.
Hicks has a legal background and previously worked as the RFL’s head of legal after spending several years working as a solicitor.
Simmons is the governing body’s safeguarding manager, who according to the the RFL website is responsible for promoting safeguarding, implementing changes and making sure safeguarding practices are followed and stuck to at all levels of the game.
“Two members of staff were suspended last week, pending investigation into disclosures we have received under our Public Interest Disclosure Policy,” an RFL spokesperson told Rugby League Live. The RFL confirmed to Serious About Rugby League that the original reporting is accurate.
Graeme Mattinson
October 5, 2024 at 11:21 am
Kerry and her gang of barry pollin ect deserve all they get. Disgusting people who think they can treat people however they want under the disguise of safeguarding. Hopefully they will be chased from the sport of rugby league.