First Spanish rugby league coaches qualified

The first 24 Spanish rugby league coaches have received their Level 1 certificate after a two-day gathering in Albal, Valencia.

The course was hosted by Asociación Española de Rugby League (AERL), and the governing body hopes to run a five-match club championship this year.

Six clubs were present – Irreductibles Mislata RL, RL Albal Valencian Warriors, Rugby Sciences Valencia, CR Edetans Montcada, Alzira Rugby Club, UER Montcada – in addition to a delegation from Madrid, to receive instruction from RLEF Coaching Manager Martin Crick and fellow tutor, Spanish-speaking Tiziano Franchini from the Federazione Italiana Rugby League.

AERL secretary general Aitor Davila said: “Extraordinary work of Martin and Tiziano and the great atmosphere created by the course. Thanks to the RLEF the work that was carried out has been unforgettable for all of Spanish rugby league.

Juan Pablo Range from Irreductibles Mislata RL added: “Everyone is more engaged and eager to grow this project now. Today we all have clear concepts and even more enthusiasm and love for rugby league.”

Gonzalo Morro of Valencia Sciences said: “Having professionals like Martin and Tiziano for the whole weekend was a luxury – today I feel like a great professional.”