RFL agrees partnership with Supporters Direct

The RFL has confirmed that it has agreed a deal with Supporters Direct, in a bid to foster closer relations between rugby league clubs and fans.

Supporters Direct have helped establish almost 20 Supporters’ Trusts in Rugby League since forming the first at Widnes Vikings.

They have gone on to establish supporters’ trusts and help six clubs all over the country – including Hunslet Hawks, Hemel Stags and Rochdale Hornets – into supporter community ownership.

“Supporters Direct have an important role to play in Rugby League by providing support and advice to clubs and fans who wish to work together for the mutual benefit of everyone,” RFL Director of Projects and Planning Jon Dutton said.

“All our clubs are deeply rooted in their own communities and Supporters Direct bring the experience and expertise that will ensure we make the most of those important relationships.

“I have seen what Supporters Direct have achieved predominantly in football and this partnership will help ensure that supporters have the ability to further develop a constructive voice in how the sport represents their interests in local communities.”

Supporters Direct chief executive Robin Osterley added: “I’d like to thank the RFL for their cooperation and support for our work. What we do as an organisation is not isolated to one sport, one level or one country.

“We believe that the tremendous good that we have done elsewhere can develop and grow even more in Rugby League, and we look forward to helping other supporters to find their voice in the game, and work more closely with their clubs and their charitable arm, Rugby League Cares.”