International Rugby League Chief Executive Officer, Nigel Wood is looking forward to 2020 with anticipation and great confidence.
In the annual message to the membership, he has highlighted the progress that has been made since the appointment of full-time staff by the organisation and also the clear plans for 2020.
“While the origins of our organisation can claim to be nearly a hundred years old, the truth is until 2015 we never employed a single person, let alone had any real Independence on the Board. I believe we have made great strides over the past 5 years.”
“Our planning and implementation of the strategy, Global Conversion, is on track. The Test match results over the past couple of months have really boosted the objective to grow the number of nations, over time, with the capability to win the World Cup.
“We now know all the teams that will compete in RLWC2021 and I congratulate all those nations who have qualified for the competition during 2019. The competitions across the men’s, women’s and wheelchair games will be, without doubt, the best ever. With the full draw to start the year and tickets going on sale so far in advance, we are confident that the World Cup will achieve its own high expectations.
“Critically the international calendar has a really strong look for the year leading into the World Cup. There are confirmed competitions in Europe, Oceania, Middle East and Africa and the Americas. Our associate members, the Rugby League European Federation and Asia Pacific Rugby League, will announce full details of dates and venues in the coming weeks, but this is a programme to excite the fans, players and is the perfect preparation for the best World Cup ever.
“A big step for the IRL in 2019 was the re-naming and re-branding. As we all know those are the simple steps and it is up to us all now to deliver the strategic objectives that live up to the new and exciting look and feel of the organisation.
“A major part of that is the support of our members. We are in the process of developing a digital platform that will allow members to carry out their administrative activities using the most advanced tools available to them. This will become live in phases during the early months of 2020.
“As well as the portal for members we will also be creating a new website to help inform members and fans alike.
“We have some crucial appointments who will take up their positions early in 2020 to further strengthen the IRL in the areas of match officials and the judiciary. We will have professional independent leadership in both areas for the first time ever.
“International Rugby League has never been stronger in any aspect and it is our duty to support growth, develop the infrastructure and provide the playing framework that allows the sport to flourish on an international stage.
“There Is, however, zero room for complacency. There remain challenges that we have to positively address and with the goodwill of all stakeholders we will do. Growth itself presents a new set of challenges, so some of the recent schisms are to be expected. Our organisation will govern responsibly, professionally and with respect and courtesy to all, at all times.
“All of this activity comes with the support of many people, both staff and volunteers, and I would like to thank them for everything that they have done in 2019 and I look forward to working alongside them in 2020 and beyond.”
