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The Cronulla Sharks and Newcastle Knights are the latest NRL clubs to announce joint ventures with Betezy.com.au after the hugely successful Titansbet.com.au was launched in October last year. (see Betezy.com.au website here)
The deals are now with the NRL for final approval, and sources report are likely to be followed by another group of high profile clubs within a week.
Sharksbet.com.au and Knightsbet.com.au, should they be approved, will offer fans the full range of sports and racing with guaranteed better odds via online 24/7 or telephone.
The Rugby League clubs will receive advertising based commissions based on turnover which could generate millions of dollars for the clubs over the next few years.
With increased state taxes on pokies and smoking bans having major impacts on Leagues clubs that have traditionally funded many Football clubs, Football clubs are actively searching for new revenue streams, which in many cases will be needed to fill their League's Club funding drops.
The Sharksbet and Knightsbet websites also include inducements for fans to become members of their clubs by offering increased odds for members.
Betezy's General Manager Ryan Kay said, "The huge success of the TitansBet.com.au venture has demonstrated that all Clubs can achieve a major income stream from sports betting."
"We are extremely happy to announce the launch of Knightsbet.com.au and Sharksbet.com.au. Both clubs have very loyal fans, who by moving their betting turnover to their club's betting site can help ensure the success of their club."
"Fans will be able to be bet online or by phone in a very personal service where they are no longer treated like a number."
"Like the Titansbet venture the new ventures have agreed to ensure a high percentage of profits is contributed to the Clubs charities and community projects."
Kay also stressed that maintaining the integrity of rugby league would be a major priority for all of the new ventures.
"We will be continually looking at integrity issues. We will be working with the NRL and the Sporting bodies to make certain there is always integrity in the sport,'' said Kay.
"One thing we are very resolute about is making sure there are never any illegal gambling activities in the sport and we will work with everyone involved to ensure this is achieved."
Fans of both the Sharks and Knights are sure to accept this venture with open arms - you bet they will!
