The Australian Rugby League Commission has today accepted a recommendation to outlaw the ‘shoulder charge’ from all competitions from 2013.

The Commission has reviewed a detailed report into the shoulder charge and accepted a management recommendation that the increased size of athletes was creating a situation where the shoulder charge could, if maintained, lead to an unacceptable injury risk.

The Malta Rugby League (MRL) would like to confirm to supporters of the MRL that the Gozo entry in MRL competition will return to being known as Gozo Rugby League (Gozo RL).

The Gozo Rugby Club (Gozo RC), formerly known as Gozo Rugby League (Gozo RL), a foundation club of the MRL, will field teams in both Rugby League and Rugby Union however the Rugby League entry will now be referred to as Gozo Rugby League (Gozo RL).

MRL Operations Manager Anthony Micallef and Maltese Heritage RL Administrator David Axisa have spent five days in talks regarding the future of the greatest game on the Maltese Islands.

The Rhône-Alpes village of Belley in Eastern France was host to the conference where discussions were also held regarding the development of rugby league within the Maltese community in Australia.

Bradford's Malta international Jarrod Sammut has become the latest player to re-sign with the club under its new ownership.

The 25-year-old former Penrith Panther, who joined the Bulls from Crusaders 12 months ago, was one of 17 players out of contract at the end of the season and is now relieved to have signed a new two-year deal.

"When you know your future is secure you feel a lot more settled and at ease," he said.

"It's great to get something finalised and put pen to paper.

Gozitan back-rower Clifford Debattista has been named back to back winner of the Ray Morris Medal Winner – the highest individual honour awarded in Maltese Rugby League.

As the RLIF international awards were named, Melbourne Storm’s Cameron Smith was named RLIF International Player of the Year and Australia’s Craig Bellamy the International Coach of the Year. 26-year-old Debattista commented, “I honestly have to say I'm surprised and honoured with this award for the second year in a row. It’s more than one could ever ask for”

“I have to thank all the MRL team and administrators, also the overseas based Maltese players, my family, my fiancée, and God for helping me achieve so much in a game I love. A great game”