MIKE DENNING, who has succeeded Trevor Hunt as chair of the National Conference League, readily admits that being at the helm of the amateur game’s flagship competition at men’s open-age level means a great deal to him.
He told League Express: “I was honoured to be asked by Trevor, who is now president, to step up as chair. We had discussions over some time, which increased following the death of Peter Moran.
“Trevor and Peter had been at the forefront of the NCL for many years, and certainly to the fore following the resignation of Terry Parle some years ago.
“They have represented the community game and the NCL with distinction. With Peter’s knowledge of the community game and Trevor’s experience in business, it was a great blend of minds that looked after the interests of the Conference members.
“I didn’t accept lightly, as I have plenty going on in my own business and family. But Trevor and Peter – sadly, in his last days – convinced me that I would be suitable for the role and thankfully the NCL membership agreed when it was put to the vote.
“I have said elsewhere that I feel as though I am still new to the world of community rugby but time flies and 20-plus years at the helm at Thatto Heath Crusaders has certainly given me a good grounding for the issues that arise not only with clubs and players but administrators and authority.”
He stressed: “I am not seeking to reinvent the wheel with the NCL. We have a robust competition which has strong administration.
“The management committee are experienced and, with the likes of Tony Johnson as vice-chairman, have unrivalled knowledge of the history of the NCL as it moves closer to its 40th year.
“As a club chair I understand the day-to-day running of clubs, for example the issues with dealing with leases/licenses of pitches, grant funding, bulk purchasing and all manner of matters which most of the playing membership probably take for granted.
“I want, with the rest of the committee, to reach out to those clubs who need help off the field and bring some experience and knowledge to assist.”
Denning is all too aware of the dangers of stretching himself too much and revealed: “I am actively seeking a replacement for my position as chairman at Thatto Heath Crusaders as it’s only fair that I give this new role my best attention.
“Thatto is and always will be my home and first love in community rugby and I will always help the club and give advice where required. The members know that I will never be far away.
“Meanwhile, there are a number of issues that we are discussing within the game that need fixing – but the NCL can’t do that alone.
“The professional game and the community game have a huge responsibility to ensure the sport of Rugby League rises and attracts more players of all ages, denominations and sexes to our great game.
“We have some fantastic athletes playing our sport at all levels and we have always had great characters. We need to be shouting from the rooftops about our game, not chopping and changing all the time. This is a ‘whole-game’ solution and not just for the community game to change.
“The RFL are the governing body. We need to work alongside them to ensure that Rugby League is here long after we are all gone. The RFL need to govern and listen in equal measure. Community rugby is run by volunteers for the thousands of players who enjoy the sport and without this bedrock, the sport is nothing.”
He concluded: “We have already committed within the management to have a more regional feel to our governance, which I believe will be of great benefit to our members.
“We don’t need to keep changing everything when it works well. As chair, I will ensure that the legacies of Trevor and Peter, and those before them, are maintained.
“We look to strengthen our existing clubs and if our members decide that other changes are required we will listen to their views.
“I can’t wait for the new season to start!”
