Potential shake-up for league

Jul 24 2008 by Dave Bettley, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

DOWNCAST Vikings fans will take crumbs of comfort from plans to improve The Co-operative National Leagues, although it was a competition they had hoped to leave behind.

Among proposals at a mid-season get-together of NL clubs was the possibility of a special ‘magic’-style weekend, similar to the one in Super League.

Potential new playing formats and venues for the event were also discussed.

The Rugby Football League also reported ‘productive discussions’ at the meeting, relating to the possible introduction of club licensing for The Co-operative National Leagues to improve standards both on and off the field.

It was agreed this would be beneficial and any such system would still involve annual promotion and relegation between each of the Leagues.

Nigel Wood, the RFL’s chief executive, said the discussions were ‘tremendously positive’.

“Following the success of the ‘magic weekend’, clubs have expressed an interest for a similar style event for the National Leagues and this is something we are looking into developing,’ he said.

“It’s also encouraging that clubs are considering a form of licensing that will help improve standards across the board.”

Club chief executives were also informed that from next year the total prize pool for both leagues would be more than £200,000, with the winner of The Co-operative National League One Grand Final receiving £100,000.

They also heard of aspirations to introduce a number of new clubs into The Co-operative National Leagues over the next three years.

Wood added: “We are clear that The Co-operative National Leagues are vibrant elements of our professional domestic structure and have tremendous potential for future growth.

“The introduction of the increased prize-money pool will add great value and prestige to competitions that are already showing the benefits of increased broadcast exposure and new commercial backing.

“Expansion of the competition will also be of great benefit as it will involve new clubs in new areas.

“The RFL will continue to work in partnership with all member clubs to advance the plans discussed at the meeting.”