Dino Mezzatesta, the CEO of Cronulla Sharks, has addressed concerns regarding the state of Shark Park, insisting that the venue will adequately serve its purpose during the NRL finals. A recent article in The Sydney Morning Herald highlighted the ground’s subpar conditions, such as temporary fencing, inadequate toilets, and insufficient corporate facilities, raising doubts about its readiness for big matches.
Despite worries over the stadium’s capacity to host major events, Mezzatesta remains confident, stating that if the team qualifies for a home final, it will be held at Shark Park. He noted that the ground has met all necessary requirements for NRL fixtures and can accommodate up to 15,000 fans, an increase from the previous year’s capacity of 13,000.
The Sharks’ management has called attention to the lack of financial support for stadium upgrades, unlike many other clubs that have received funding for improvements and facilities. Mezzatesta highlighted this disparity, asserting that the club deserves equal consideration for funding to enhance their home ground.
He acknowledged the need for a significant upgrade, estimating a cost of around $180 million to develop a state-of-the-art facility that could host 23,000 spectators. Historically, the Sharks played their home games at Kogarah Oval during the 2020 season due to local development, but Shark Park itself did not receive much-needed attention during that period.
Mezzatesta emphasised that, regardless of the limitations, the unique atmosphere at Shark Park contributes to an enjoyable experience for fans, allowing them to be close to the on-field action. Looking ahead, the Sharks are set to host the Gold Coast Titans in round 24, continuing their tradition at the suburban ground while balancing aspirations for future improvements.