Following his sudden removal from the Wests Tigers, former recruitment manager Scott Fulton has finally spoken out about his departure. Fulton’s appointment with the Tigers had been controversial from the start, as neither former coach Tim Sheens nor current coach Benji Marshall were consulted in the decision. Despite his involvement in bringing players like Latu Fainu and Samuela Fainu from Manly to the club, Fulton faced challenges in aligning with Benji Marshall on various decisions, including the signing of Aidan Sezer from the Super League.
The uncertainty surrounding Fulton’s future intensified with the removal of Justin Pascoe and Lee Hagipantelis from power at the club. Despite his disappointment about the situation, Fulton expressed gratitude for his time under the previous management and the achievements made in a short period. He acknowledged the inevitability of such changes in rugby league, expressing well wishes for the Wests Tigers’ future.
Fulton’s departure marks the second time the Wests Tigers have parted ways with a recruitment manager in less than a year, following the removal of Warren McDonnell. Acting interim CEO Shane Richardson acknowledged that more changes were on the horizon as part of efforts to rebuild the club, which has faced consecutive wooden spoons.
Richardson emphasized that the decision to remove Fulton was not a reflection of his performance but rather a strategic move in restructuring the club. He revealed plans for further changes in the coming 30 to 40 days, with a focus on long-term success. Richardson clarified that the alteration in the club’s structure was not a critique of Fulton personally, but rather part of a broader shift in the approach to various aspects of football operations.
The appointment of Richardson as interim CEO, along with interim chairman Barry O’Farrell, followed an internal review that recommended significant changes in the club’s leadership, signaling a new direction for the joint venture.
