As a part of the RFL’s ongoing drive to increase the number of coaches in Rugby League, the Performance and Coaching Department recently organised the first ever UKCC Level 1 Certificate in Coaching Rugby League which covered a specialised learning programme of Wheelchair Rugby League.

The course which took place in Widnes was developed by Helen Hiley the RFL’s Education and Training Officer and Phil Roberts who as well as being the RFL’s League For All Officer was also the Coach of the World Cup winning England Wheelchair team last year.

Vinny Webb, the RFL’s Head of Coach Development, said: “Since England’s success in winning the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup last year in Australia the number of people playing the sport has increased dramatically.

“In order to retain our world title in future years it is important that those new to the sport are receiving the best form of coaching and that’s why we’re giving people the opportunity to take up a coaching course with a specialised learning programme.

“Under our community strategy we are looking for a 50 per cent increase in the number of coaches between now and 2012 at all levels, including Wheelchair Rugby League and this course has been a great start with an 80% pass rate.”

For further information on the RFL’s coaching courses please contact the Performance and Coaching Department on 0113 2375010 or e-mail coaching@rfl.uk.com

Pictures are available on request