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Telstra to hire 12 journalists for NRL coverage

NRLTelstra is to expand its coverage of NRL hiring 12 new journalists for its new digital media unit.

The move is likely to be seen by traditional media organisations News Limited and Fairfax as a challenge to their own sports coverage although Telstra says the move is not intended to compete with traditional sports coverage providers.

“NRL Media is all about bringing rugby league followers closer to the game with unique insights into the league and its clubs. We think the content that NRL Media produces is a unique offering that doesn’t compete with any major players in the market.” said a Telstra spokesman. 

The move comes a little over a year after the AFL challenged traditional media outlets by hiring its own journalist and providing dedicated sports coverage. The AFL reportedly now has more reporters covering the sport than Melbourne’s Herald Sun.

As part of the expansion Telstra confirmed Nigel Wall, a former editor of the NRL magazine Big League, as editor of the new NRL digital media unit.

Telstra Director of Digital Media and Content Adam Good said Wall’s appointment was an important hire.

“We’re thrilled to have someone of Nigel’s calibre leading the editorial team that will bring unprecedented levels of coverage to Rugby League fans,” Good said.

“With a dedicated team of journalists based all around the country as well as producers injecting quality content into the NRL’s strong live and social media platforms, Nigel’s appointment will ensure NRL fanscontinue to enjoy unrivalled coverage and engagement with the game.”

The NRL said that the move was intended to extend digital coverage of the game.

“Rugby League is committed to leading Australia’s digital sports market and Nigel’s appointment is an important step towards achieving that aim,” said Shane Mattiske, NRL general manager, strategy.

“NRL Digital Media will engage fans like never before and give them the most exciting digital coverageRugby League has ever seen.”

Wall starts on May 13 and will lead the recruitment of the wider Editorial team at the digital unit.

Nic Christensen 

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