Clubs

Starting A New Club

So you are thinking about starting a new rugby league club......

Firstly many people have done this before and we have collected lots of information to make your life easier so please read on.

Step One - Consider the following:

  • Have you decided on an age group?
  • Have you formed a committee e.g. Chair, Treasurer, Secretary?
  • Have you got players that have shown an interest in joining your club?  If not, have you devised a recruitment plan?
  • Where are you running the club from?
  • Geographically, where is your nearest club?
  • Finance - Have you thought about sponsorship and buying kit etc?

Step Two - Use the links below to find information and resources that will help you answer some of the questions above.

Step Three - Create a plan of action based upon information from above and your own knowledge, experience and contacts.  In the plan you will need to identify where you are going to get your players, who is going to coach, where you are going to play, what are you going to wear and who is going to help.  You will also need to consider how to raise funds and open a bank account.  At this stage you will probably want to form your committee.  

Click Here to help identify the roles and responsibilities for all committee members.

Step Four - Depending on which league you would like to join the application process is slighly different.  At this point you may wish to contact your local Service Area Coordinator (who is funded by your local council and the RFL) they will be able to assist you with your application and any problems or questions you have.  Click Here for a list of SA Coordinators.

  • BARLA Leagues - Fill in the required application forms to join the appropriate District League.  This may require you to attend a meeting to outline your plans.  District Leagues can differ slightly in their criteria for accepting new clubs, but by having all the answers to the questions in Step 1, and being well prepared, you should be able to tick all of the required boxes.  A list of District League Contacts is available by Clicking Here.
  • Rugby League Conference (RLC) - To apply to join the RLC, contact David Lowe; david.lowe@rfl.uk.com 

Step Five - Insurance - Click Here for more information on Insurance. 

Step Six - Organise and advertise your first meeting or training session.  This will probably confirm that you have everything in place to start your club and play your first friendly fixture.

Step Seven - When you feel your club is ready to play regular fixtures you need to contact your local Playing League.  They will then take you through the relevant steps you need to take to join their league.  Click Here for Playing League Contacts.

From here on in you have a network of support through your playing league, development staff, club members and even your opponents.

Clubs grow with excellent planning and commitment from members supported by outstanding administration.  It's important from the start to have a vision of what you are trying to achieve and share that with others.

Good luck and remember help is only  a phone call or email away.

Telephone Rugby League Services on 01484 544 131 or Email rugbyleagueservices@rfl.uk.com.