Money matters for RFL

It's not an expensive option for families and supporters to pursue so we think the game is as well placed as any to cope with the difficulties of the next 12 to 18 months

Nigel Wood
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Rugby Football League chief executive Nigel Wood believes Super League clubs can prosper in 2009, despite the economic recession.

While other sports are being forced to tighten their belts rugby league seems to be flourishing, enjoying some of the best financial results in the game's history.

They have also received a £30million windfall from Sport England while the 14 top-flight clubs are set to receive a seven-figure sum as a result of the new television deal with Sky.

Confidence

"I think we can move into the new year with confidence without in any way being complacent," said Wood, with the RFL expected to return a profit for the seventh successive year.

"We are aware that the market has tightened considerably and the economic climate is challenging.

"Certainly some of the sponsorships in the club game are harder to come by but we've got a great sport with a terrific appeal and loyalty within its support base.

"It's not an expensive option for families and supporters to pursue so we think the game is as well placed as any to cope with the difficulties of the next 12 to 18 months."

The decision to expand the Super League in 2009 - with Salford and Celtic Crusaders being granted licences - has been criticised by some.

The introduction of two new clubs will see the talent pool stretched even further, though Wood is adamant it will have a positive effect in the long term.

"When you accommodate two new clubs there will inevitably be a period of adjustment, just like there was when we admitted Catalans Dragons," he said.

"But in the medium term all of the indicators suggest we should be delivering a really strong, 14-team competition where any club on any given weekend should be in with a chance of winning."

Tough times

The situation seems to be less rosy for those outside the top tier. The re-named Co-operative Championship is expected to be hit harder by the current financial situation.

Rochdale Hornets are facing a winding-up petition brought by the Inland Revenue, but the RFL are stepping up their efforts to help out all clubs.

"The Championship clubs will receive a minimum of £100,000 this year, which is a 100 per cent increase on 2008, so the timing couldn't be better," Wood added.

"That is not to say there won't be situations where clubs have difficulties and there is already one case in the public domain. We are trying to be as supportive as possible."