The RFL is set to listen to young people following the formation of the Young People’s Advisory Panel.

The panel – which was formed earlier this year– held its second meeting at the weekend and sees eight 16-25 year olds meet three times a year to discuss all matters relating to young people’s participation in the game.

The group will evolve to be the “voice” of young people and will advise the RFL on issues such as communications between young enthusiasts and the RFL and also the governing bodies’ policies which impact on young people.

“The idea behind the creation of the panel is to show we are an organisation that listens to and is informed by the opinions and suggestions of young people,” said Kelly Barrett, RFL Community Game Services Manager.

“Going forward two members from the panel will attend our Youth & Junior forum and will be given their chance to share their opinions and get involved in the process of moving the youth game forward.”

The panel consists of people from a variety of different backgrounds including players, coaches, match officials and volunteers, and is chaired by Nimai Parmar, himself a player and coach at London Skolars for the past 12 years.

Elected to lead the group at the latest meeting 22-year old Nimai is excited about how the panel can help shape the sports development.

“It’s a great responsibility to be asked to chair the panel and I’m really looking forward to working with all the guys,” he said.

“I’m heavily involved with the game down in London in a variety of voluntary roles so to be involved in this project is yet another honour for me.”

“It’s a huge opportunity for young people to help shape the future of the sport and I know I speak for the rest of the panel when I say we can’t wait to get started.”


For more information on the panel and to meet its representatives visit http://www.therfl.co.uk/community_board/young_people_advisory_panel