Three clubs given A grade licence

Correspondent

Yesterday saw the RFL release the grades for the confirmed fourteen engage Super League clubs. nnAmongst the 14, only three clubs managed the elusive Grade A status, Warrington Wolves, Leeds Rhinos and Hull FC all securing the top grade.nn”The three clubs that received A grade licences deserve special commendation,” said RFL chief executive Richard Lewis.nn”They are impressive both on and off the field. Of course we hope these clubs maintain these high standards over the licence period.” nnIt was thought that Wigan Warriors would also have secured a Grade A, but to recent salary cap breeches the famous club missed out and along with Bradford Bulls and St Helens, had to settle for B Grade’s.nnThe remaining clubs, including high flying Catalan, were awarded C grade licences. nnThe 11 teams that failed to secure A grades have been given detailed feedback in the hope the clubs can improve further for the next round of franchising in 2011.nn”The goal for the other 11 teams is to look at the detailed feedback they have received this morning from the RFL on their licence application and work out what they need to do to achieve an A grade next time round,” added Lewis.nn”The hard work for many starts here. For clubs who have ambitions for new stadiums, they need to ensure by 2010 when the next licence application process starts, that they are more than just plans.nn”The clubs that have missed out this time round will be even more determined to win a licence in the future.”