New era for rugby league at Cambridge University

Cambridge University has not often been perceived as hotbed of rugby league, it is fair to say, but that could be changing.

The university’s rugby league club is taking steps to more effectively establish itself as part of student life in Cambridge.

The Cambridge University Rugby League Football Club (CURLFC) has appointed a general manager, and launched a new website.

It has also removed the term ‘amateur’ from the club’s name and has created a range of new sponsorship packages.

St Helens-bornMark Ramsdale, a former CURLFC player and a club Vice-President, has been appointed as General Manager.

He is a political consultant to the RFL, Secretariat to the Parliamentary Rugby League Group and Founder of the League Business Network and on the Board at Championship One side Oxford RL.

Since 2013 he has also been responsible for delivering the Pcubed Rugby League Varsity Match, overseeing the move to the Honourable Artillery Company and turning the event into a major draw for City workers and rugby league devotees alike.

“I’m very excited to be getting more involved with my old club” said Ramsdale.

“It is essential for rugby league to have a strong presence at Cambridge University, so players who know the game can support those who are new to it.

“CURLFC is a great club with a core of talented and passionate players.

“We aim to recruit well at the beginning of the academic year and with a range of new sponsorship packages to support players, the club, and the sport in the university, we have something to offer anyone who wants to be associated with Cambridge.”

CURLFC was founded in 1980 and is one of the largest University-level clubs in Cambridge.

Club President, final year Medic Tom Hughes said: “Dropping the Amateur from our name was a big step for the club.  We recognise it is an emotive subject for the sport, and was a requirement from those who oversaw university sport at Cambridge when we were first founded. 

“In light of the new structure, we have moved in line with all other clubs at the University and feel this will appeal to both new players and sponsors as we look to develop our position as one of the University’s premier sports clubs. 

“We are very much looking forward to the season ahead.”