Danny Kazandjian has resigned as the COO of the LRLF, effective immediately and has returned to England. He has been working in Lebanese rugby league since 2002, first as development officer for the RLIF and later as an official of the LRLC and now LRLF.

“I leave Lebanon with a great amount of affection for the country, the friends I have made there, and of course for the Lebanese rugby league project, which has served as a wonderful example of what can be achieved with a good team of people and a lot of drive and passion.

There are too many fond memories I have, but I feel particular satisfaction when I see young Lebanese talking about rugby league like any Queenslander or Yorkshireman brought up with the sport, and watching them playing the sport with such maturity and dedication.”

Kazandjian was vice president of the LRLC and LRLF until March 2010 when he was replaced by Mireille Ziade, the incumbent vice president, and Chief Operating Officer from 2005. He will remain on the board but his day-to-day role will be assumed by LRLF board member Remond Safi.

LRLF president Mohamed Habbous said: “It was a pleasure working with such a dynamic and enthusiastic person such as Danny. He has done so much for Lebanese Rugby League and we are all indebted to him greatly. The sport enjoys a much stronger following while the firm roots that he's planted hold it in place. We wish him luck in his future position and hope to keep working with him in the future.”