Since 2022, the Rugby Football League (RFL) have provided significant resource to further develop and grow rugby league within the higher education sector. The Rugby League Coordinator has been in post within BUCS for two full seasons, and has been striving to deliver against three key aims
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To provide direct support to the teams currently competing
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To increase participation
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To raise the profile of the sport across the sector
During the 2023-24 BUCS season significant consultation was undertaken to review our men’s offer, assessing whether our programme remained fit for purpose, and with overwhelming support from our members, a men’s National League has been implemented ahead of the 2024-25 season. We have also continued to support our wider game with CPD and workforce development opportunities specifically targeted towards students.
Maz Veater, BUCS Rugby League Coordinator, commented: “I’m incredibly proud of the work both BUCS and the RFL have done this year. The changes made in the men's programme have positioned us for long-term success, while Rugby League 9s continues to grow, and the women's game is developing with an eye on potential BUCS inclusion in the future. I want to extend my gratitude to colleagues within the RFL and our wider membership for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in making this season highly successful."
Neal Kington, National Competitions Manager, added: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to both Maz and the RFL team for their tremendous hard work and dedication throughout this season. The positive changes in the men's programme, particularly the creation of a National League, mark a significant step forward, and I am excited to see how these developments will shape the future."
Finally, Tom Brindle, RFL Head of Growth and Women’s Super League General Manager, commented: “Building on another successful year, we will strive to strengthen our relationships with BUCS members, encourage institutional aspirations in our game and support our students, no matter what their interest, to have a truly exceptional experience whilst on their rugby league journey.”
We look forward to continuing our work with the RFL, we work together towards a common goal of developing and growing rugby league.
The full report can be downloaded below.
