RFL pleased with Championships response

The RFL has praised all the clubs, organisations and individuals who have made valuable contributions to the ongoing review of the structure of the Championship.

The response from the sport’s stakeholders into a process which is examining the competition structure for all clubs below Engage Super League level from next season has been hugely positive, according to the RFL’s Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to the clubs, the coaches and the public for the enthusiasm they have demonstrated in providing feedback to a process which will help shape our sport for many years to come,” said Rimmer.

“Meetings have also taken place with other sports and sponsors to compile a trend analysis document surrounding all of the pertinent facts, making this the biggest ever consultation on the competition.

“Whilst there were some definite trends, viewpoints obviously varied in many areas and we even had a few clubs commenting that their board members had conflicting answers, which shows it is going to be impossible to please everyone.

“A lot of healthy debate has been created and we now enter the next phase in terms of formulating draft proposals which will go out to clubs and partners for further consultation at the end of January. We are looking to sign off the new model for  2012 and beyond by the end of March 2011.

“The Championships are something everyone cares passionately about and the RFL is committed to maintaining and building on our significant investment in clubs which last year benefited from over £4m of central funding.”