The strife-torn Wests Tigers have yet another problem to deal with – disgruntled fans wanting to cancel their memberships for next season as the club lurches from one disaster to the next.
And in a move that is further frustrating the disillusioned fans, the club is refusing to give them refunds, despite the fact the new season is more than three months away.
Several supporters have contacted Wide World of Sports complaining about the club’s policy, which refuses to consider allowing them to opt out of 2026 membership packages.
READ MORE: NRL bans doctor, officials for two years over Katoa handling
READ MORE: Archer’s embarrassing numbers expose laughable ‘rivalry’
READ MORE: ‘I will not be that person’: Richo’s vow after quitting Tigers
One, Gareth Sayles, went as far as to say the club’s boardroom antics had caused him mental anguish.
“I don’t think it’s fair at all that members can be treated so badly and not have any right to a refund,” Sayles said.
“It has got to the stage where I have no hope that the team I’ve supported all my life can ever be anything other than a laughing stock.
“I don’t know if the NRL can step in and help us fans. It’s just not fair that the club is so poorly managed and we can’t get out.”
Wests Tigers fans on the hill at Leichhardt Oval. Getty
Another supporter said he was considering going to the Department of Fair Trading to request they look into the Tigers’ treatment of their members.
Sayles wrote a polite letter to the Tigers’ membership team, declaring: “I am reaching out to request a cancellation of my membership and a full refund. In light of recent developments, I can no longer support this club.
“The actions of the Holman Barnes Group are the final straw and cemented the legacy of two once proud clubs to an absolute laughing stock yet again.
“To continue supporting this club is detrimental to my well-being and causes great distress.
“I appreciate the work the people in the club do and bear no ill will towards anyone that works for The Wests Tigers organisation however, I cannot continue to support the toxic leadership at the board level that treats its members, supporters and employees with such contempt.
“If you could please provide advice on what is required of me to obtain a full refund, that would be greatly appreciated.”
He was sent the following letter in reply, clearly refusing his request.
The response Gareth Sayles received from Wests Tigers regarding his membership. The Mole
Wide World of Sports contacted the Wests Tigers for comment.
