Dragons chair Craig Young stands down over Brett Finch letter furore

St George Illawarra’s turbulent off-season continued with President Craig Young announcing his resignation after a controversial letter in support of troubled former NRL star Brett Finch.

Young was convicted by the Dragons in October for providing Finch with a character reference using the club header during his court battle after being accused of sharing child pornography material.

The Saint George legend apologized for his “misjudgment,” but said he has no regrets for providing the character’s reference to Finch – a longtime family friend – who is trying to avoid a prison sentence.

“I informed my colleagues on the St George Illawarra Dragons board this afternoon of my decision to step down as club manager immediately,” said Young.

“I believe it is in the best interest of the club, interests for which I have always tried to work with pride and to represent positively.

“I believe this is the appropriate action, given my individual decision to provide a personal reference on official letterhead, for which I have already apologized.

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Camera iconSYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – NewsWire Photos OCTOBER 18, 2022: Brett Finch pictured as he leaves the Downing Center courthouse today. NCA NewsWire / David Swift Credit: News Corp Australia

“I regret my error of judgment in providing the reference on letterhead, at the request of the legal representatives.

“I don’t regret my decision to provide a character reference of a longtime family friend regarding his character and behavior, prior to a harmful addiction.”

WIN CEO Andrew Lancaster will replace Young as chairman in a move that was previously planned under a joint venture agreement.

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