Back to Belmore has paid tribute to outgoing Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Chairman Dr George Peponis, who stood down from the role earlier this month after seven years at the helm of the club.
Dr Peponis was appointed Chairman in 2002 during one of the most turbulent chapters in the club's history, following revelations of salary cap breaches. His steady leadership during that period earned widespread repect from players, administrators and supporters alike.
Back to Belmore President Luke Brailey praised Dr Peponis as a man of integrity, dignity and vision.
"Dr George Peponis is a true gentleman and a towering figure in the history of the Bulldogs," Mr Brailey said.
"He guided the club through difficult times with grace and humility, and never lost sight of the values that have always defined the Canterbury-Bankstown community."
Vice President Luke Cevolani also acknowledged Dr Peponis' strong ties to the Belmore area and his longstanding support for efforts to rejuvenate the iconic local ground.
"George grew up in Edison Street, just a stone's throw from Belmore Sports Ground. He has always understood its meaning - not just to the Bulldogs, but to the entire local district," Mr Cevolani said.
"His support for the club's efforts to secure a $30 million Federal Government grant to revamp the venue speaks volumes about his commitment to its future. We wish George the very best of good fortune in the next chapter of his life and we look forward to working constructively with his successor when the appointment is made, to ensure that Belmore Sports Ground remains a central component of the Canterbury-Bankstown region's sporting future."
While Dr Peponis' successor as Chairman is yet to be announced, Back to Belmore remains hopeful of a continued collaborative relationship with the Bulldogs' leadership team.