Paul Gallen has resigned from his role as a director for the Cronulla Sharks, a position he held for just 12 months. The 44-year-old, a former club captain who played 348 games for the Sharks, will continue his involvement with the club in a capacity focused on football operations.
Sharks chairman Steve Mace confirmed Gallen's decision, stating that the club fully supports his desire to work directly with the football program. Mace emphasized Gallen's continued importance to the club, noting his passion for recruitment, retention, and operational structures. "When Paul puts his mind to something, he's successful well beyond the sporting arena," Mace said.
Gallen's departure from the board comes as he also missed Channel Nine's coverage of the State of Origin decider on July 10, despite being present at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. He was working with bookmaker PointsBet at the event, participating in a panel discussion. Gallen explained his decision to step down from the board, citing the demanding nature of the role and a desire to focus on hands-on football matters. "The board wasn't exactly what I thought it'd be," Gallen told The Daily Telegraph. "Now I know how much work goes into it, especially at a club like ours where the directors are really hands-on with management. Those guys do such an amazing job and we're extremely lucky to have them. I'll continue to help with the football side of it."
Gallen, a significant figure in New South Wales Origin history, has been a commentator and analyst for Channel Nine since 2018, regularly appearing on multiple games and the program '100% Footy.' His absence from the Origin coverage drew attention from fans on social media.
Gallen captained New South Wales a record number of times and was named player of the series in their 2014 State of Origin victory. He also holds a role with radio 2GB's Continuous Call Team and has prior experience as a sideline commentator.