Gurr to bring NRL experience to key USARL role
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Former Eels and Roosters CEO Bernie Gurr has been appointed as treasurer of the USARL after the national governing body for the game in the United States finalised a raft of key board positions.
Gurr and Sydney Roosters CEO Joe Kelly were last month appointed to the USARL board as independent directors following a lengthy governance reform process instigated by International Rugby League.
The USARL board has announced further strategic appointments, including:
- Matt Goschnick – Chair
- Dustin Zerrer – Corporate Secretary
- Bernie Gurr – Treasurer
Now residing in California, Gurr has decades of administrative experience in rugby league as CEO of the Roosters from 1994 to 2003 and with Parramatta for four seasons from 2016 to 2019.
Having studied accounting while playing for the Roosters, Gurr was the accountant for Duran Duran’s 1993 Australian tour before entering sports administration as the finance director for the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
The appointments follow a number of significant developments for the game in the United States, headed by the NRL’s decision to kick off the 2024 season with a double-header in Las Vegas.
The USARL last week announced details of a unified national competition, while the North Sydney Bears have formed a relationship with Boston 13s to play under the Bears name.
Roosters recruit Liz Tafuna has become the first US player signed for the NRLW, while clubs are in discussions with Vegas Combine winners Megan Pakulis and MarCaya Bailous.
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In a sign of the NRL’s long term commitment to North America, John Vellis was recently appointed as General Manager - US Expansion.
A USARL statement said the appointments of Gurr, Goschnick and Zerrer followed a rigorous selection process, which reflected USARL’s commitment to transparency and excellence in leadership to meet the growing demands and opportunities within the sport.
"Bernie Gurr, former CEO of Sydney Roosters and Parramatta Eels, brings a wealth of experience in sports administration and finance management, crucial for the USARL’s strategic financial planning,” the statement said.
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Goschnick, stepping up from his role on the board to chair, expressed his vision for the game in the United States.
"I view leading the USARL board as a privilege that comes with significant responsibility,” Goschnick said.
“It's an opportunity to shape the future of rugby league in the United States while fostering a culture of unity, inclusivity, innovation, and continuous pursuit of excellence."
"I look forward to working collectively with the board and our stakeholders in implementing strategic initiatives, expanding grassroots programs, and enhancing the awareness and accessibility of rugby league across America.
“I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for USARL and the sport of rugby league in the United States.”
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Zerrer, concurrently serving as the marketing and media relations officer, will now also handle the duties of corporate secretary, facilitating the flow of information and maintaining sound corporate governance.
Goschnick acknowledged David Abo, the interim USARL chair, for his leadership during a crucial transitional phase for the USARL.
“David’s contributions have been invaluable in setting the stage for this new chapter in USARL governance, and I thank him for what he was able to accomplish,” he said.
Abo will continue to serve on the USARL board of directors.
