Rebels sold to a Kiwi
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The Melbourne Rebels have been sold to a locally-based sports management company, which is headed by a New Zealander.
The Australian Rugby Union [ARU] and Victorian Rugby Union [VRU] confirmed the sale of the Melbourne Rebels Rugby Union Limited [MRRU] to Imperium Sports Management Pty Ltd [ISM], which is led by Chrischurch-born Andrew Cox.
Cox will take over from chief executive Peter Leahy.
The ARU has been in control of the franchise since the original owner Harold Mitchell passed over the reins to it in 2013.
Speaking on behalf of ISM, Cox said: "We know Melbourne is the perfect city to have its very own rugby team. There are over 125 years of Rugby history in this state and the support for the Rebels in just five seasons is extremely encouraging.
"We're excited about the opportunity we have to re-engage with the Victorian Rugby community and form a deeper connection with our fans by delivering better Rugby experiences at AAMI Park.
"With the expanded Super Rugby competition in 2016, we are looking forward to showcasing Melbourne across the world through new markets including Asia and South America.
ARU CEO Bill Pulver believes the Rebels are in good hands under Sidwell and Cox.
"Throughout the negotiations with the Imperium Group, we have been most impressed with both Andrew Cox and Peter Sidwell and their vision for the growth of Rugby in Victoria," said Pulver. 
"We, along with the VRU, are pleased that the Rebels' new owners share the values of the ARU and the Foundation Rebels Shareholders, and will look to continue to strengthen the development of Rugby in Victoria in partnership with the VRU."
President of the VRU Tim North added: "As a Rugby community we are very fortunate that the new owners of the Rebels are passionate about the VRU’s growth strategies and local pathways.
"Under the sale agreement, the Melbourne Rebels and VRU will continue to operate as separate businesses, although remaining strongly linked to continue to drive the local game for men and women in club Rugby, Victorian Schools Rugby Union [VSRU] and Rugby Sevens."
The announcement comes after a historic year for the Rebels, having recorded more wins in a single season [seven] than ever before.
A number of 'firsts' for the Rebels has been achieved along the way, including a first ever overseas victory against the seven-time Super Rugby champion Crusaders in Round One, and five Rebels players have been selected in the preliminary Wallabies squad for The Rugby Championship in July.
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