82 replies to this topic

[audois]

I like to think there are has been a kind of sea change with Skolars. In their early days being competitive was only achieved it appeared to me with overseas players but it wasn't the case this last season I understand. The challenge may be now in the south is with suddenly four new clubs in tow. Gloucester's going to be interesting but we are moving into the unknown with a university based out fit. But saying that Loughborough & more lately Hartpury College in Gloucestershire play union at an equivalent level to CC1 may be.

Anyway its going to be fascinating to see how it all unfolds. I do think though there are some really capable people involved here & that could be the key. Premier Sport should hopefully showcase some of these southern derbys. Talk about winds of change.

[PhilCarrington]

I appreciate people's concerns about the numbers of teams/fixtures - it's pretty shambolic that "Northampton" happened, and not a good reflection at all on an RFL that supporters of all persuasions seem to be losing confidence in.

Maybe one solution for clubs is to "make" their own 9th (or more) fixture.

This could take many forms. Is there an opportunity for the likes of Rochdale, for example, to co-ordinate a 9s festival and build it into the season ticket? This could be income generating via sponsorship. This could be a tournament for the amateur game in and around the town, which, if organised correctly, could have the support of local clubs and ensure good numbers of supporters (not sure what Hornets' relationship is like with the amateur game?). There is also the opportunity to make the big games bigger. Attempt to generate extra income at Rochdale v Oldham off the back of a well-established derby.

I think the cut in the RFL grant is a disappointment though. This ringfenced grant traditionally allowed clubs to invest in their community, commercial and administrative operations, plus a smaller un-restricted contribution. In many ways these clubs need that invest more than ever before. It's not as if it can be used to buy "big name" players and chase trophies (although there are always loop holes in these things).

No club has a rightful place in any division. It's interesting that many of the negative viewpoints I've heard on the new CC1 have come from exactly the same people that state that a clubs rightful place should be "decided on the pitch".

What makes you think the grant is ringfenced ? I suspect most it just goes to paying general debts, especially players wages, but in some cases not the taxman.

[stewpot01]

What makes you think the grant is ringfenced ? I suspect most it just goes to paying general debts, especially players wages, but in some cases not the taxman.

I was thinking the same thing.