At one point in time, Manly were in a predicament. Losing money fast, and not gaining revenue, it looked they might have been on the outer. That is, until one man stepped up and gave them the funds necessary to survive. That man was Max Delmege.
Delmege who is a property developer is credited with much of the success that saw the Manly Sea Eagles remain in the NRL.
It was only 8 years ago that Manly were in financial turmoil and almost kicked out, before Delmege came along and gave the much needed financial boost they required in order to keep the club afloat.
Delmege who has a 36% stake in the club, is currently in negotiations to sell it, eco-hot water company and Manly’s main sponsor, Quantum.
Manly’s board have had a trouble history recently with an internal civil war that threatened to shake up all things Manly. Luckily, such issues were soon resolved however.
Manly will now be owned by Penn Sports (40 per cent), Quantum, Manly Leagues Club (9 per cent) and Manly football club (15 per cent).
Delmege will without a doubt remain firmly etched in the minds of Manly fans for saving their club from the financial ruin their beloved team once faced.
“I’ve had a fair run,” Delmege said. “This will give Manly another heavy-hitter and some more firepower. The company (Quantum) is financially well-heeled. It will keep the Manly Sea Eagles heading in the right direction.
“That is a plus for Manly. You need more than one dominant shareholder in a football club. Aside from a few hiccups, I’ve had a few hiccups, I’ve had a good run – a few grand finals and, of course, 40-0 in 2008.”
When queried about his saving of the Manly football club, Delmege said: “Thats’ fair to say”.
“I put my balls on the line and saved the place. I have spent a lot of money as shareholder and major sponsor. But at the end of the day it has given me enormous satisfaction.”