OCTOBER 2010 ISSUE 67

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE RFL

ENGLAND’S YOUTHFUL LOOKS on the inside…

In full Bloem! From Blackpool Honour & Prestige to New York EARLY BIRD TICKET OFFER 5 FOR 4* 12 In full Bloem! ENJOYED THIS YEAR’S SELL OUT CARNEGIE FINAL? don’t miss NEXT YEAR’S! Book the best seats now. CONTENTS

5 Media Matters

6 Magic to kick off 2011

8 Come along & shape the future

10 All to play for

19 Giants strides of success

20 Deep roots From Blackpool 14 16 ’s 21 Continental conflict to New York youthful looks 22 Saints alive! EARLY BIRD OFFER: 24 My Wembley weekend 26 Reggae Rugby

Buy 5 tickets for the price of 4* for the 27 A game for Garry

2011 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final 30 Hello Mr President Limited availability ALL TICKETS FROZEN AT 2010 PRICES. OFFER ENDS 30 NOVEMBER Saturday 27th August 2011 TICKET PRICES: £76, £61, £51, £41, £31, £26 & £21 Available from 31st August For disabled enquiries call 0844 856 1113 or e-mail [email protected] 28 Honour & prestige Call our hotline on 0844 856 1113 or visit www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk *Offer only available by calling 0844 856 1113 Monday to Friday (9am – 5pm) and applies to £61, £51, £41, £31 & £26 tickets. Terms and conditions apply. INSIDE THIS ISSUE MEDIA MATTERS .... with Nick Boothroyd

Welcome to issue 67 of the Rugby League Bulletin .... RL We’ve reached the IN NUMBERS business end of the What an experience - the Engage With the domestic professional season drawing to a close attention will soon turn to the international game with both the Four Nations and European Cup season and there hardly taken place this autumn. This issues main cover story is about the young talent coming through in the seems to be a day that England camp and the writer Nathan Clarke also caught up with RFL’s Head of goes by at the moment Player Development BJ Mather as he plans for the future, whilst Johnny Sharp also previews a European Cup that is to be played between France, , without a crucial Rugby Ireland and . One event happening even sooner is the Engage , League match, dinner or an event which is now firmly established in the UK sporting calendar. press conference .... As we look forward to this years occasion this issue contains an interesting piece on the Harry Sunderland award. Presented to the finals man of the match 85,217 Supporters at the 2010 Neil Barraclough looks back at previous winners, speaks with about Carnegie Challenge Cup final at what it means to win it and asks “who was Harry Sunderland?” As you’d expect, the week ahead of the Another article penned by Neil is a fascinating interview with former Super Wembley Engage Super League Grand Final is a League star Jamie Bloem. Jamie explains to the Rugby League Bulletin why he’s particularly busy one which starts with decided to become a match official and also tells us what else he’s been up to the Co-operative Championship Finals Day since he hung up his boots. on Sunday September 26 and never really Elsewhere within these pages Phil Hodgson looks ahead to another season in lets up before the showpiece event at Old the BARLA regional leagues, the 2010 Community Game raffle winner is named Trafford the following Saturday. and we learn about the new community team being put together at Engage As well as the traditional pre-match press Super League club the Giants. conference and picture opportunity at the Finally, there are a couple of articles with particular reference to , stadium the dinner as we look at the game as a whole in the county and also preview the Garry also takes place during this busy week in Purdham memorial game between Cumbria and England on Sunday October 3. . The arguments are already raging amongst both media and supporters about who will pick up the coveted Man of Steel 12,281 Player registrations done TOM HOYLE award in 2010, it’s always a great talking by the Community Game Services point so feel free to have your say in the Editor Department of the RFL in August [email protected] discussion on the RFL’s official facebook page. Regardless of who picks up the trophies at Rugby League’s equivalent of the Oscars the ceremony is great for the profile of the sport and is enjoyed by many members of the media for whom the event goes on late into the night. Speaking of Rugby League’s profile, the Grand Final itself has a massive impact on twitter.com/CommunityRL facebook.com/rugbyfootballleague journalists especially those attending for the first time. I’ve heard many non-Rugby League journalists coming away from the Published by the Community Game Services Department of the RFL. event and raving about the experience. The RFL, The Zone, St Andrews Road, Huddersfield, HD1 6PT. 388 Points scored by Pat Indeed, alongside the Carnegie Challenge Tel - 01484 448000 | Fax - 01484 545582, Richards in the Engage Super Cup final the Engage Super League Grand Email - [email protected] | Internet - www.rfl.uk.com League weekly rounds Final provides us with an excellent platform to showcase our sport at its very best to the feature writers and general sports The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the RFL Board of journalists from the national media. Directors. If you have never experienced the atmosphere at for the most highly charged game of the season you Contributors - Tom Hoyle, John Ledger, Neil Barraclough, swpix.com, Dave Williams, Nick have to go along and enjoy it for yourself, Boothroyd, Phil Hodgson, Paul English, Louise Fildes, Nathan Clarke, Danny Reuben, Johnny the pre-match build up and tension together Sharp with the rendition of “Jerusalem” is truly special. For supporters that are heading to the If you are interested in advertising in the Rugby League Bulletin, please contact - Grand Final and spare a bit of time to you can get involved in the Greatest Game. It’s fantastic to see the Rugby League [email protected] have a look round the fans zone which is Meanwhile, one event that I hope will family rallying round in support of the Garry Main Cover Photograph - (swpix) 39 Teams take part in the situated just outside the turnstiles. continue to generate a lot of publicity is the Purdham Memorial Trust and if you haven’t As part of the RFL’s drive to encourage Garry Purdham memorial match which sees already heard about this great cause I would © The League Ltd 2010 2010 11 Hattons Solicitors / more people to participate in Rugby League Cumbria taking on England in encourage you to visit www.Garrypurdham. Designed by - Tom Hoyle National Conference League there will be a special “Try it” trailer parked the day after the Grand Final on Sunday co.uk for full details. Printed by - Redwood Print Ltd Tel - 01484 711111 in this area full of information about how October 3.

- 4 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 5 - MILLENNIUM MAGIC TO KICK OFF 2011 SEASON Making a return - proved The 2011 Engage Super League season will popular with both players and kick off in magical style with all seven first fans round fixtures taking place beneath the closed roof of Cardiff’s . DANNY REUBEN explains ....

The return of Millennium Magic after a two- the clubs and fans wanted and are looking year absence will see the new Engage Super forward to putting together a spectacular League season make the most explosive opening to the new season at Millennium start in the competition’s history as 14 Stadium next February.” clubs go head to head over the weekend of The Welsh Assembly Government are February 12 and 13. fully behind the returning Details of Millennium Magic 2011 fixtures to the Principality and are looking forward and ticket availability will be announced to welcoming Rugby League supporters to in the coming weeks and Super League’s Cardiff for the start of the 2011 Engage Director of Events and Projects Sally Super League season. said Rugby League fans are in for a treat at Heritage Minister, Alun Ffred Jones, one of the sport’s most popular venues. commented, “We are delighted that the “The Millennium Stadium has hosted Rugby League family will be returning back some memorable Rugby League matches to Cardiff in 2011 for what promises to and I’m sure supporters of every club will be an outstanding start to next season’s not want to miss out on what promises to competition. be a truly magical weekend,” said Bolton. “Thousands of Rugby League supporters “The stadium’s closed roof means that will once again be enjoying the hospitality, fans can watch all seven games in comfort facilities and resources that exist within the over what I’m sure will be two days that will Welsh capital. prove to be highlights of the 2011 sporting “The Welsh Assembly Government has calendar.” been a proactive partner in attracting the Millennium Stadium hosted the first two event back to the Millennium Stadium for Magic Weekends in 2007 and 2008 before the first time since 2008 and this will only the event moved north of the border to reinforce our positive working relationship , where full rounds of Engage with the RFL going forward,” added the Super League were staged at Murrayfield in Minister. 2009 and 2010. Millennium Stadium General Manager The return to Cardiff follows a lengthy Gerry Toms said, “The Millennium Magic period of consultation involving the 14 weekend has always been a colourful “The Millennium Engage Super League clubs, Rugby League affair in the city, giving Rugby League fans supporters and a number of major venues the opportunity to sample some Welsh Stadium has hosted who had expressed a desire to stage the hospitality. It is another example of how the some memorable Rugby event. Millennium Stadium attracts a wide variety The clubs were very keen on continuing of sports and events to the Welsh capital. League matches and with Magic Weekend and much of the “The weekend will no doubt produce feedback we got from fans was that as a day of exciting and competitive games I’m sure supporters of much as they loved the event, they missed between all 14 clubs including our own Millennium Stadium,” added Bolton. Crusaders RL.” every club will not want “We have some very happy memories of to miss out on what the last two years at Murrayfield and would Fixtures and ticket information will like to extend our thanks to the SRU for be announced in due course. For promises to be a truly their support and assistance. further information, please go to www. “However we have listened to what rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk magical weekend,”

- 6 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 7 - Come along & shape the future Representatives from all Community Rugby League clubs and leagues in the UK will descend on Manchester in October for a pivotal meeting which could shape the future of the sport....

Every club has the opportunity to send two on the Four Seasons debate which is To book your place at the Community representatives to the Community Congress currently a topic of huge importance in the Congress please contact Rachel Doran which starts at 11am and finishes at 4pm community game and there will be a variety at [email protected] or on 01484 with all delegates receiving free tickets to of guests in attendance talking about the 481042. the Engage Super League Grand Final later subject. that evening. Kelly Barrett, Community Game Services Manager, “The Community Congress has proved to be a popular event over the last few years.” “Congress is a great opportunity for the community game to come together and share best practice. I’m sure The Point will prove to be a fitting venue for this year’s event and afterwards we can all enjoy the Engage Super League Grand Final.” The Community Congress is also an opportunity for representatives to meet with and question the people who work within Rugby League. Delegates have the chance to shape the future of the sport and make suggestions about what needs to be addressed to make Rugby League better for everyone in the community game. This year’s congress will focus heavily

- 8 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk new boys - Queens & A famous name, meanwhile, is back in the Hunslet Old Boys fold in the CMS League. Celtic, giants of the competition Just champion - Drighlington will for decades, have entered a side after be out to defend their title having concentrated on summer rugby in recent years, and have been placed in Division Two. Celtic were beaten at home by York Acorn A on their return, before getting off the mark with a victory at Milford Marlins A. Yorkshire League bosses have been given a further boost with the admission of North Yorkshire team Northallerton, who have been included in Division Three and who lost narrowly to Crofton Cougars A on the opening day before sustaining a heavy defeat at the hands of a Moorends outfit that has already put in a request for early elevation. Other new sides include Harehills and White Rose, while Whinmoor are back. Naturally, most eyes will be on the top flight – renamed Unison Division One rather than the Premier Division – and Fryston have already emerged as strong title favourites, winning 58-6 at Crofton Cougars on the opening day and backing up that success with an 84-0 verdict over A. It’s difficult, at this early stage, to say who Fryston’s main rivals will be although Upton, long-term residents of the top flight, will be expected to be there or thereabouts. left it late in recording 16-14 wins in their Greenwood are on the Sharks’ coattails in Only three teams won their first two second games, the Bulls edging St the early stages of the campaign. The Bulls, games in the Premier Division of the Kukri Cuthbert’s with a try five minutes from time 40-18 opening-day winners at West Hull League, and each and Barrow disposing of Blackbrook with a Lions, backed up that success with a 32-0 of them could count themselves a shade last-ditch penalty. triumph at an East Hull outfit that is now, fortunate in an opening flurry of results that One outfit that could be facing a testing with Myton and A, propping up suggests a highly competitive season. few months is promoted Shevington Sharks, the section. Champions Halton Simms Cross were who were beaten 44-4 at home on their New side Duke of York, meanwhile, have left hanging on for a 20-18 win at Walney debut in the top flight by St Cuthbert’s and enjoyed a heady start in Division One and Central on the opening day after having then lost 32-4 at Rylands Sharks. Hopefully, topped the standings after two games been 20 points up at one stage, and Shevington will quickly settle. with a 28-10 defeat of Norland Academy Simmies’ experience seven days later Across the country, in Hull, champions and a 48-12 disposal of GW Horners. And against Ashton Bears, who hit back from 22- Norland Sharks are setting the early pace Embassy, happily reformed, also boasted a ALL TO PLAY FOR 6 adrift to only 32-22 down on 80 minutes, and had totalled 130 points, with only four 100 per cent record, thanks to a 40-10 stroll raises questions for the first time in years conceded, from their first two fixtures, in over Cottingham Tigers and a narrow win at The latest BARLA regional league season started in September. over Halton’s staying power. which a 42-4 victory at East Hull Dragons Hull Uni Rangers, another new team in the Barrow Island and Bank Quay Bulls were, was followed by an 88-0 demolition of GMB Union League. PHIL HODGSON casts his eye over the coming campaigns .... at the time of going to press, the other sides A. Lambwath Lions were also on four points, with 100 per cent records. Both, however, Skirlaugh Bulls and Orchard Park & courtesy of victories over Fenners and Norland A. As the five BARLA Regional Leagues begin Queens have been joined in the switch by Queens travelled to championship rivals and The Iggesund League, which to take shape in 2010/11, with the onset of Hunslet Old Boys and , who old Yorkshire League adversaries Sharlston traditionally opens in late August, was autumn, much attention will inevitably focus were both in Yorkshire’s top flight, and the and returned home with a 38-0 success already taking shape by mid-September. on a new-look Pennine League. likes of Birstall Victoria, Ossett Trinity and under their belts. Champions Kells, together with The competition, which almost entirely ’ A and B teams. That was an incredible scoreline and Distington, were setting the pace at the comprises of Yorkshire clubs, has attracted That little lot is making reacquaintance suggests that coach Richard Milner and his head of Division One with six points apiece. more teams from the CMS Yorkshire League with teams such Drighlington, Sharlston charges will take a great deal of stopping in Both, however, had lost one game; Kells, this time, with Ace Insurance (Europe) Rovers, Kippax and, from York, New their bid to secure the championship at the perhaps crucially, at home to Seaton, who BARLA National Cup holders Queens Earswick All Blacks. first attempt. enjoyed a 100 per cent record and who, heading the list. Even prior to the latest recruits being Reigning champions Drighlington, with emerging Broughton Red Rose, may included, there had been calls for a “North however, have indicated that they will also well be firmly in the frame come the end of East Counties League”, comprising sides be a force and set an agenda of their own the campaign. from Pennine, Yorkshire and, perhaps with a 78-0 slugging of Crigglestone All There is, it has to be said, some concern Hull, to be launched in a model that could Blacks, again away from home, to give an about Ellenborough Rangers. Elbra, until emulate, and perhaps improve upon, the early indication that they and Queens could a year or two ago, were one of the finest successful Kukri North West Counties be the main contenders for the title. Hunslet amateur teams in the country, let alone in League. Old Boys, meanwhile, launched their new Cumbria, and had been for a decade and a Nothing has yet developed in that regard adventure with a couple of hard-earned half. Rangers, however, have imploded since and, in the meantime, Queens gave every victories, at home to Queensbury and at a heavy defeat in the 2009 Champion of sign in the first couple of weeks of the Halifax Irish, which suggest that they could Champions Final, a match which brought to campaign of taking the Pennine League by consolidate well in the top flight. a close a gruelling campaign. Elbra failed to storm. There will also be some attention paid raise a side for an early-season trip to Kells The North outfit opened with a to the doings of Oulton B, who have been and many folk that a superb club 56-0 victory over Halifax Irish, which was active in recruiting locally and breached the Looking to re-group - Cumbria’s Title favourites? - built by the late Billy Bryce will successfully impressive enough. But eyebrows were century mark in their first fixture, a Division Ellenborough Rangers Halton Simms Cross re-group. certainly raised when, seven days later, Seven stroll over Dearne Valley Bulldogs A.

- 10 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 11 - Jamie Bloem’s career “You can have all the was always pretty mental capability in the Past & present - Jamie has gone world, but you’ve also got remarkable - but from player to match official to be able to apply it in the former South the right situations and Africa and Scotland keep cool under pressure. international has Having played the game topped it all with can sometimes help with his decision to take that.” up refereeing. NEIL

BARRACLOUGH caught broken leg finally finished his playing days – and remains a regular presence on the up with him .... airwaves. “I’ve been doing the radio for about seven years, and I just love it,” he says. “I just enjoy being at the games and being part of it. Going to places like Murrayfield and the Millennium Stadium, with 50,000 people jamie Bloem, 38, admits he didn’t get on knocking around who all love Rugby League with match officials as a player. But since – what more could you ask for? an on-air radio rant first led to him picking “And when people can listen to me giving up the whistle, he is happy to concede his my views on the radio, then I know the attitudes have completely changed. world has gone completely bonkers.” Now he’s setting his sights on breaking But away from the radio, Bloem remains into the Co-operative Championships in the intensely focussed on carving out a new next two years. career as a match official. “I always hated referees during my career,” “The first few games I did were all says Bloem. “I thought they were out to get in reserve and academy games, and I’m me and that they were horrible people. But now doing student stuff on a Wednesday once I’d done it myself, I realised how wrong afternoon, so I’m doing my apprenticeship. I was.” “I would love to establish myself in the Since retiring from professional Rugby Championship and be a good Championship League, Bloem has set up a landscaping referee. Maybe I could even get to be a business in Halifax and works as a Super League touch judge. Tony Martin is summariser on BBC Radio Leeds. old enough to be my granddad, but he’s the It was the radio work that was to best touch judge bar none. That’s what I’d dramatically alter Bloem’s post-rugby like to do. career. The former Halifax, Huddersfield and Castleford full-back explains, “I do a lot of “Rugby League is a fun work for the BBC, and the refereeing came about because of something that happened and fantastic game. a couple of years ago. I’d recommend being a “We were covering a game and the referee made quite a few howlers. I’m quite referee to anyone who outspoken on things like that. I said it was a load of garbage, and that I could do better. fancies having a go.” The next thing I knew, Stuart Cummings had called me to ask if I wanted to meet up and “I know it’s unlikely that I’ll ever do a see if we could make it viable for me to take Super League game. If I happen to do one, up refereeing.” then that’s fantastic, but I see myself as a Bloem has already had his setbacks, but Championship referee.” IN FULL BLOEM! Surprisingly, in a game where tempers his determination to succeed is evident. “I didn’t referee last year because I broke my can occasionally boil over, Bloem has not yet leg three times while playing had to deal with a serious loss of discipline for Old Rishworthians, but I’ve come back And with a huge bank of experience a decent try, looks at me and says “I bet you “If you have a referee that’s never played involved in refereeing. In Rugby League, in any of the games he has controlled. with a bit of vengeance this season. to draw from, Bloem believes he is in a wish you were as good as me, eh Jamie?” the game at all, then one that’s played at there’s Wilf George, who does the Halifax “I’ve not had anything major to sort out,” “I really want to do something in fortunate position from which he can easily I’ll just laugh and tell him that if I had done a low level, and then one that’s played at League, and myself. There hasn’t been he says. “I don’t know if that’s the influence refereeing. I’m 38 now, so I’ve not got a lot develop strong relationships with current it, he wouldn’t have got anywhere near professional level, you’ll definitely see three enough players coming into refereeing, and of who I am, or whether I’ve just been lucky, of years left, but I honestly do think I can do players. catching me. I love that banter and I think different interpretations of the game. hopefully that’s something we can change. but so far all the blokes I’ve dealt with have a good job.” Making use of his knowledge of players’ that really makes it easier for the players to “You can have all the mental capability in “It would only be good for the game to been quite well behaved! He added, “I did a few Valvoline Academy tricks, and dealing with any potential respect you, and vice versa.” the world, but you’ve also got to be able to get these guys involved, because they’d “In the end, I think it comes down to games, and I’m doing the winter conference problems before they get out of control, are Now Bloem is starting a one-man apply it in the right situations and keep cool also be able to help bring through the how good the communication is between at the moment. I like to set myself goals, two of Bloem’s best qualities. recruitment drive among current players under pressure. Having played the game can younger referees. If a young referee gets the players and referee. I get a collective and I’m hoping by next year I might even get “It’s not about me once we’re on the approaching retirement and ex-players sometimes help with that.” input from an ex-player’s point of view, and enjoyment out of the whole job, and I think a game or two in the Championship. field,” he says. “It’s all about the young fellas looking for something to do. The recruitment of former players is a referee’s point of view, then that can only that shows. “If I wasn’t really into it, then I wouldn’t still playing the game. I’ve had my time, and He’s already had on his something that’s been common in rugby help.” “I touch judged a Championship game be doing it. Anyone who knows me will I don’t want that back. Now I tend to talk radar, and he hopes more ex-pros will join union, and Bloem believes league can Bloem’s refereeing commitments not long ago, and it’s just completely fun tell you that once I’ve put my mind to to players, chat with them, and get a bit of the ranks of Rugby League referees. benefit by going down the same path. certainly make for a busy life. As well as his and enjoyable. Rugby League is a fun and something, I go 100 per cent flat out to try banter going on the field. Bloem says, “It definitely helps a lot if “When you look at rugby union, there landscaping business, he still coaches Old fantastic game. I’d recommend being a to achieve it.” “Sometimes I’ll get someone who scores you’ve played to a decent standard. are quite a lot of ex-players who are now Rishworthians – where the aforementioned referee to anyone who fancies having a go.”

- 12 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 13 - From Blackpool to New York

Ric Tomlinson from Blackpool is the lucky winner of the 2010 Community Raffle and will swap Blackpool Tower for the Statue of Liberty as he enjoys a five night trip for two to New York complete with £1,000 spending money ....

The top prize in the annual draw also and the young players coming through and Hotel Group and organised by the includes £5,000 worth of equipment for the with this concept they are really helping Community Game Services department of Rugby League Community Club of his choice. themselves, they get some real benefits the RFL. The draw was made by Rugby League back.” The proceeds from the £1 ticket sales Foundation Trustee Andy Harland and Other prizes saw 10 people win an were split between the Rugby League England Coach Steve McNamara who praised England Rugby League shirt and another 10 Foundation and the grassroots organisation the work that the Community Rugby League a pair of Engage Super League Grand Final that made the sales. Clubs are doing for the game as a whole. tickets. Steve McNamara said, “Community The raffle was sponsored by Virgin For a full list of winners visit participation is paramount to our game Atlantic and The Hotel Intercontinental www.therfl.co.uk/community

- 14 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk After a disappointing final defeat to in the 2009 Four Nations and Here’s to the future - Burgess, decades of underachievement, this year’s Myler, Hall & Tomkins squad will be out to make amends and begin laying the foundations for a successful 2013 World Cup campaign. With that in mind, England Head Coach Steve McNamara will take the 24 players he thinks are best suited to guiding the team to victory and what will make McNamara’s selections exciting is not just the fact that this side could actually be good enough to win, but that the average age is likely to be well under 26. “It’s great for the state of the English game to have so many young players vying for team places .”

“There’s been a new exciting breed of player coming through the system in recent years,” said McNamara. “It’s very encouraging for myself and everyone involved to see these young players coming through and it’s a very exciting time to be involved with the game. “It’s great for the state of the English game to have so many young players vying for team places and all those involved within the production system should be praised for the work they’re doing.” The man charged with running that system and ensuring that there is a continuous stream of exciting new players coming through for McNamara to choose from is BJ Mather, the RFL’s Head of Player Development and a former Great Britain international. “We want to build on the current development success and produce even more talented players in the next few years.” ENGLAND’S “Our main goal is to develop players of world class ability,” said Mather. “We want to take the current crop of young junior players through to the elite level so that they will be able to challenge for team places for the 2013 World Cup with the aim of winning that competition.” With a host of world class youngsters YOUTHFUL LOOKS having become established names already, such as , Ryan Hall and Richie Myler, the idea of another crop of similarly England’s 24-man squad will be under no illusions as they head talented players coming through the system is a relishing prospect for all involved. Down Under this month to face Australia, New Zealand and Papua “There are some fantastic young players in the game at the moment,” said Mather, New Guinea in what promises to be a highly competitive Four who made his own international debut aged 21. “We’ve got Sam (Tomkins), Ryan (Hall), Nations. NATHAN CLARKE looks ahead to the tournament and also and Richie (Myler) to name a few who are all still under 22. These young wonders if youth will be given its chance .... lads are already up there with the best in

- 16 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 17 - the world and playing alongside guys like 2009 Engage Super League Club of the Year and James Graham will only Intelligence & creativity help them develop even further. - are continuing to plant seeds “There is a great crop of development in their off-field operation that of young players in will cement their burgeoning reputation as a top the side at the minute class outfit for many years to come .... making team selection difficult and our hope is that come 2013, Steve will have the biggest talent pool possible to choose from which will hopefully lead to success.” “We want to build on the current development success and produce even more talented players in the next few years so we can give Steve McNamara as many selection nightmares as we possibly can.” With such a talented group of youngsters in the game, it is possible that the majority of McNamara’s 24-man squad could be under the age of 25, but when asked why previous England teams have favoured experience ahead of youth, Mather thinks the answer boils down to one ingredient – decision making. “In the past English players have often England Four Nations Fixtures: been criticised for their decision-making V New Zealand V Australia V Papua New Guinea processes,” said the former Saturday October 23 Sunday October 31 Saturday November 6 GIANT STRIDES OF SUCCESS player. “They’ve been called robotic or been Kick Off 8pm (8am UK) Kick Off 8pm (9am UK) Kick Off 6pm (5am UK) seen to struggle with making the correct Progress is the buzz-word at the Galpharm is a former Academy player at the club requirement of the RFL Community strategy decision in high pressure moments and more Stadium as the historic club seek to continue and Darren “Rocky” Turner should need and are based at The Zone, a unique facility a experienced players have tended to be better the positive spiral of recent years, which was no introduction to avid Rugby League stone’s throw away from the Galpharm. in those situations. improving and learning while also giving balance out with the needs of the clubs,” said complimented on the field in 2009 with a supporters, the tough tackling former Giant The Zone is a fantastic indoor venue that “As a result we’ve tried to change our them the competitive edge that will Mather. “We work very closely with clubs to third placed Engage Super League finish and was a member of 1998 houses the registered charity Sporting Pride coaching approach from the very grassroots make them winners when they are in the identify player strengths and weaknesses a Challenge Cup final appearance at Wembley Challenge Cup winning side. Community Trust (SPCT). The charity has the all the way to the top to encourage players professional ranks. and we work in conjunction with them to try ensuring the most successful season in 49 The enthusiastic and talented team are a responsibility for the management and co- to express themselves more freely in those “I think if you look at the likes of Sam and ensure that the players are developing years. ordination of all community activity on behalf situations and to learn how to deal with Tomkins or Kyle Eastmond, no one could correctly in the areas we want as well as the The club of the year landmark at the end of Huddersfield Giants Rugby League Club pressure at an earlier age. call them robotic and they reflect the way areas that the club emphasise. of that season was a proud moment for all and Huddersfield Town Football Club. SPCT we want our future players to play, with “Our goal is to produce players who are involved at the club, particularly Head of uses the power and influence of professional intelligence and creativity.” proficient in all areas of the game. Clubs Youth Performance Damian McGrath and sport to engage the whole community “I think if you look at the In order to ensure that the next batch of might want a player who is exceptional in Marketing Manager James Brammer, whose into sport, leisure, health and educational players to come through the system have one area and neglect the others if it suits efforts were recognised in the awards. activities whilst improving lifestyles and likes of Sam Tomkins the type of creative attributes required to their play but we want to ensure that our Former England Rugby Union employee providing fun and enjoyment. represent England, Mather and his team are players are efficient in all aspects of the McGrath set a positive blueprint for the clubs Huddersfield Giants in the Community or Kyle Eastmond, no focusing on structured coaching and helping games. ever-improving player development pathway, embrace these aims but are also specifically players hit a set of minimum standards. “There is a great crop of young players in whilst ex- Bulls Marketing chief tasked to increase involvement in Rugby one could call them “We expect our players to perform to a the side at the minute making team selection Brammer can feel more than content with an League in its varying forms across the certain level in every aspect of the game,” he difficult and our hope is that come 2013, average attendance that has increased from local area. As the birthplace of the sport, robotic and they reflect said. “Those standards are largely guided by Steve will have the biggest talent pool 5,600 in 2006 to just short of 8,000 in 2009. Huddersfield has a long and proud tradition in what Steve McNamara wants from his team, possible to choose from which will hopefully Exciting news also arrived in 2010 with the sport. This is something the community the way we want our how he wants his players to play and how lead to success.” a new four-strong Community Development development team are honoured to represent the England squad is to blend. If everyone involved can manage to keep department to help take the club to the next and promote. The community work will take future players to play, “There is no point in us producing a crop the system’s cogs turning then the future of level in its Marketing operation and spread a variety of different forms involving schools of players who don’t fit the national squad’s English Rugby League looks promising. the Giants message to a greater audience and local community clubs and will continue with intelligence and style of play as we want to make their “Hopefully by the time 2013 comes than ever before. to build on the existing partnerships with the integration into the full squad as smooth as around, we’ll have a crop of players who are Enter Laura Hanson, a lifelong local council and school sport partnerships. creativity.” possible when the time comes.” used to beating teams at international levels Huddersfield Giants fan previously employed It’s clear that the clubs focus and However, with new players emerging as juniors,” said Mather. “They will then be by as a Women and Girls determination to continue the strides made “Our Performance Pathway starts with from different clubs throughout the country, able to learn from guys like Burgess and Community Development Officer, she took in recent years to spread the Giants message, players aged 13; from then until the players all of whom adopt their own preferred style Tomkins, who will still only be 24/25 by that the job in January and quickly began forming spearheaded by staff such as Laura Hanson make their professional debuts, we have of play, generating a group of players with stage and hopefully by then, they’ll be well her team. Steve Hardisty has experience and James Brammer, will take them to the structures in place to develop our athletes similar attributes is a difficult task. used to beating the Australians.” of working with NRL community teams in next level in the upper echelons of the sport physically and mentally and to keep them “The needs of Steve and England have to and , Glenn Holdsworth both on and off the field.

- 18 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 19 - NCL power - Wath Brow

Back on - the Whitehaven & derby

Eyes on the prize - seven times winners France Continental Conflict

This autumn’s Alitalia Rugby League European Cup could be Deep Roots the best yet. JOHNNY more young players on display each week PHIL HODGSON looks at the state of than others, while a similar story applies in SHARP looks ahead the Barrow ARL which, apart from Hull, is the game in Cumbria .... the only “playing” District League in BARLA. to the international There have been calls, for many years, for teams in the Furness area to return to the action .... Barrow ARL from, to a degree, the Hatton’s While Rugby League in Cumbria may, on his blocks to the formation of any new club, Solicitors National Conference League and, own admission, not be at its most vibrant some would say legitimately. principally, the Kukri North West Counties at either professional or amateur levels, Many of the best young players produced League, while calls for a fully-fledged Anyone who witnessed France’s Iggesund Chairman by amateur clubs in the area are enticed Cumberland League are less regular. performances in last year’s Gillette Four European Cup Fixtures Roger Blair is convinced that the roots so elsewhere, with Super League The difficult coast road from Barrow to Nations will be well aware that the less deeply entrenched in the far north west sides – notably – tending to Whitehaven and Workington, which makes celebrated names of international Rugby October 9 over many years will sustain the sport snap up the leading lights. There is, indeed, many players physically sick, has prompted League are fast catching up the big three France v Ireland through a relatively indifferent period. plenty of talent in the region, with West teams in Furness to take the easier route of – Australia, England and New Zealand. Istres Only of the three Cumbria, the Gillette National Youth League playing sides from places such as Wigan and Fans of those nations should keep a close professional sides in the county enjoyed champions least season after a thrilling Warrington – further away but easier to get eye of this October’s Alitalia Rugby League October 10 anything like success last season, coming 26-25 victory over Stanningley in the Grand to - in the North West Counties League. European Cup, since the winner will be Scotland v Wales fourth in the Co-operative Championship Final, showing the way. , meanwhile, remain awarded a place in the 2011 Four Nations. Glasgow before slipping out of the play-offs with a The success of West Cumbria, who are a power in the Premier Division of the Seven times European Champions France 72-20 defeat at . effectively an Under 18s representative NCL, while Millom are showing signs of have the advantage of playing their three October 16 Up the coast, meanwhile, Whitehaven side, perhaps disguises the fact that there is battling for promotion from Division One games at home, but they will still face a stiff France v Scotland finished second-from-bottom of the same no youth league structure at that age group and are capable of test from defending champions Wales, who Toulouse section and will face Championship 1 fayre in West Cumbria, while the same situation challenging for the title in Division Two. claimed their fifth title last year. next season, where a saving grace will be applies down the coast in Furness. Kells and Seaton Rangers, for their They will be looking to avenge their October 17 the prospect of “derby” clashes with old It may be that such a situation is almost part, are setting the early-season pace in defeat to France the last time the two Wales v Ireland rivals , who sneaked into inevitable in both areas where, outside the Iggesund Cumberland League’s First nations met, in the bitterly contested 2005 Neath the play-offs in their own section before the towns of Barrow, Whitehaven and Division, with Kells topping the table but final. The European Cup’s profile continues going down 46-12 at Doncaster. Workington, the sport is dominated by Rangers’ recent 20-10 away win potentially Wales, France and England have shared October 23 to grow with the acquisition of Italy’s It’s not the best of records in a county village clubs who, in reality, can hardly be being the most important result of the out the 28 previous titles between them, France v Wales national airline as title sponsor, while French which many feel would benefit from the expected to have the numbers of players 2010/11 campaign. a stranglehold Ireland and Scotland look Albi networks Direct 8 and Orange TV will be formation of an Engage Super League available to run full teams at youth level. Broughton Red Rose and Distington perfectly capable of breaking. Both nations broadcasting all three France games live, in side, although the geography which Young lads, meanwhile, are unlikely to could lead the chasing pack, while Seaton’s made their debuts in 2003 and have October 24 addition to ’ highlights package. separates Barrow from the north, and the play for any youth team formed in a nearby and Kells’ second teams, alongside with competed in the last four tournaments, with Ireland v Scotland Off the field, the competition goes from passions involved between Whitehaven village and, consequently, the Iggesund Salterbeck, Flimby and , are the both having competed in one final – Ireland Dublin strength to strength. It’ll be fascinating to and Workington, represent major stumbling Cumberland Open Age League has, perhaps, early challengers in Division Two. in 2004, Scotland last year. find out who can follow suit on the pitch.

- 20 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 21 - Wigan St Patrick’s are surely one of the most renowned names in the amateur game. PHIL HODGSON looks back at the clubs rich

history .... signed for the Pie Eaters in 1938. Following in Egan’s trail are the likes of , , , , the late and revered (who somehow escaped the “net”, proving to be a great capture by Warrington), , Sean O’Loughlin and There are many great names in amateur . Rugby League, and a roll call of famous Many of those have, understandably, clubs would, in itself, fill most if not all of a sought to give something back to a club that page in the Bulletin. they tend to see, with every justification, as One of the most revered is, without extended family. question, that of Wigan St Patrick’s, an Clarke, currently a Rugby League pundit outfit that has arguably produced as many with Sky TV, never misses an opportunity players for the professional game as any to give his beloved Pats a mention, and other and which, equally importantly, has recently made a point of drawing viewers’ nurtured thousands more who have simply attention to his tie, a stylish black and green enjoyed, and graced, Rugby League at the offering which celebrated the Saints’ 100th grassroots. birthday. Pats are currently celebrating their Andy Gregory, too, has a strong affection Centenary Season and, happily, the for Wigan St Patrick’s and coached the first Clarrington Park outfit has more than most team for a season or two several years ago. to celebrate. Andy Gregory, in fact, was announced as Formed in July 1910 as a youth team President of the Centenary Club, which was following a historic meeting at St Patrick’s Old boys - Forshaw, Clarke, launched by Ian Tonge and Chris Fairhurst Gymnasium, off Darlington Street, the side Gregory & O’Loughlin to both celebrate Pats’ special birthday and was initially known as St Patrick’s Athletic raise funds for the club. Rugby Club. Phil Clarke became, in March, the Pats, in adopting such a name, were in Centenary Club’s first member, with a sense following the example of many only 100 allowed in total to match the clubs in Yorkshire which were known not significance of the initiative, each member as Rugby League (or, at the time, Northern donating £100. Union) clubs but, officially at least, as Fairhurst and Tonge launched the club Cricket, Football & Athletic Clubs. with the aim of creating a “time capsule- The likes of Batley, Halifax, Huddersfield, type” board on which will be recorded Hunslet and Leeds were only some of former players and others who have the ambitious outfits that boasted the supported the project. soubriquet CF&AC and it can be supposed Meanwhile, Wigan St Patrick’s retain a that, if cricket had also been embraced, strong focus on youth and junior Rugby Wigan St Patrick’s would have been, as far League, and typically run teams at all age as is known, possibly the sole Lancashire levels. club to be named in similar fashion. Sides are prospering in the North West It is unlikely that, in those early years Counties Youth League, with the Under 18s before the onset of the Great War, any of operating in the Premier Division, the Under the founding fathers had any idea of the Saints Alive! 17s heading their own top flight, and the heights which their club would eventually League (formerly, from its launch in When it came, however, it came in a attention in 1926, the year of the national Under 16s consolidating in Division Two. reach. 1986/87, the National League). flurry. As the Allies began to gain the strike. St Patrick’s offered a welcome Youngsters continue to come through, Wigan St Patrick’s have, in truth, pulled Wigan St Patrick’s were, in fact, upper hand, so Wigan St Patrick’s began to diversion to real hardship suffered by the in a never-ending stream of ability and off a notable feat in not only producing a champions of the National League in dominate the local amateur Rugby League folk of Wigan by lifting the Daily Dispatch enthusiasm at Clarrington Park which host of stars for the professional game, but 1991/92 and have been key members of scene in Wigan, closing the 1942/43 Shield, a national trophy. incorporates Under 15s, Under 14s, Under of also thriving at Open Age level. perhaps the most vibrant competition in campaign with the Laing Cup, the Counsell An astonishing crowd of 16,000 turned 13s, Under 12s and, at Mini-Mod level, That achievement is a rarity as many British Rugby League, at any level, in each Cup and the Woolmer Cup (the last-named up at Central Park – the home of Wigan RLFC Under 11s, Under 10s, Under 9s, Under 8s other clubs, while coming close to matching other season. retained after having been secured the until the turn of the century – to witness a and below. Pats’ conveyer belt of youth and junior Not that such success was seriously on previous year). notable win over St Bede’s of Widnes, and Whether the founding fathers of talent, have become victims of their own the agenda in the early decades of the club. If that was impressive, the Saints were the lads on show that day were perhaps the the “Athletic”, back in 1910, could have success and have, quite understandably, St Patrick’s, who appear to have quietly to hit new heights in the mid-50s, when the first of a production line that continues to envisaged any of this is debatable. There struggled from time to time in the adult dropped the “Athletic” tag shortly after side went unbeaten for three years, building the present day. is no doubt, however, about one thing; arena. their formation, possibly during World War on strong links long forged with the local Offering a list of players who have gone those visionaries, who set the template Not so Pats who, with Leigh Miners One, set about building a strong club, rather St Patrick’s School where, in 1921, Rugby on to grace the professional ranks may be for a century of sustained and admirable Rangers, are one of only two teams never than a particularly successful one in terms League had been introduced with huge seen as a risky exercise, as omissions can progress, would be delighted if they could to have been outside the top flight of the of trophies, and it wasn’t until the advent success, popular teacher Mr John McGuire cause offence, but some of the big names see, now, the eventual (or, more accurately) flagship competition of the amateur game; of World War Two that any silverware was having a real impact. who have been nurtured by St Patrick’s are current fruits of their first, tentative, the Hattons Solicitors National Conference acquired. Their deeds became the focus on national headed by the great , who labours.

- 22 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 23 - My Wembley Weekend

Media Volunteer PAUL COX looks back at his big day out ....

Saturday August 28 was Carnegie Challenge from the year 7 boys final. They were lucky laptop in front of me ready for the final Cup final day. It was also one of the greatest enough to play their final at Wembley prior Champion Schools match of the weekend. experiences of my life as I got the chance to to the Challenge Cup final on the Saturday. Both teams put on a great display of sit in the press box at Wembley. When Challenge Cup final day arrived Rugby League but it was Dowdales who ran Myself and Louise Fildes are both media the anticipation was growing as Louise, out 24-6 winners. After the match myself, volunteers for the RFL in the North West. Helen and I left our accommodation to head Louise, Helen and the majority of the RFL We were lucky enough to be selected by for Wembley. We travelled on the Temple volunteers were involved in the parade of the North West volunteer coordinator, Moor (Leeds) team coach, who later played all the Carnegie Champion Schools winners. Helen Heyes, to go down to for in the Year 7 Boys final against Dowdales This was a great experience as I doubt I will the Carnegie Champion Schools finals and (Barrow). ever have the chance to walk the perimeter Carnegie Challenge Cup final. We arrived at Wembley slightly early of the pitch at Wembley again. Our job for the weekend was to write so decided to go for a walk around the After the parade we made our way back the match reports for the eight Carnegie stadium as the weather was beautiful. At up to the press box. I then wrote up the Champion Schools Finals that took place. around 11.30am we collected our media match report and compiled it with all the We travelled down to the capital early accreditation. others from the weekend before they were on Thursday morning, in what can only be Our accreditation allowed us access to sent to various websites and publications. described as awful weather. We then made the media entrance, the press conference, My final act of the day was to go and our way to Hillingdon Athletics Stadium to the press lounges and pitch side. The view watch the Carnegie Challenge Cup final collect our branded kit and have a meeting from the press box was incredible. We were between and Leeds with all the RFL staff. The rest of the day one of the first ones in the press lounge; Rhinos. It was brilliant to watch the match was spent in London with all the other probably due to our excitement, but also as I from the press box; a place that I hopefully volunteers who were helping to run the had to prepare for the year 7 boys final that will be spending more time in the future! Champion Schools finals day. I was writing a match report on. Friday August 27 was the Carnegie Prior to the final between Dowdales and Champion Schools Finals day at Hillingdon, Temple Moor I had lunch, courtesy of the where I and Louise wrote the match reports. lovely hospitality staff at Wembley. I then For more information on volunteering All the finals were at the stadium apart took my seat out in the press box with my visit www.therfl.co.uk/community

- 24 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk Reggae Rugby A GAME FOR GARRY A special memorial game between Cumbria and England will commemorate the life of Workington, Whitehaven and Egremont Rangers player Garry Purdham. JOHNNY SHARP takes up the story ....

Sport rarely seems less significant than rower’s three former clubs - Egremont it full of fans from all over the country who when more serious matters of life and death Rangers, Whitehaven and Workington Town can perhaps tie the game in with a visit to overshadow it. But once the Rugby League – and have received the support of the RFL the Lakes.” community had taken in the terrible news in arranging the fixture. about the death of one of its own in the “It is sure to be a great occasion to have recent Cumbrian shootings, it felt only right the England team playing in Cumbria and Admission will be by means of a special that a game should be played in his honour. one in which the whole Rugby League commemorative programme. The We refer, of course, to Garry Purdham, the community can join in,” said committee programme will be priced at £15 for former Whitehaven and Workington Town spokesman Dave Bowden. “The Recreation adults and £5 for children. For more player who was one of the victims of the Ground can accommodate in excess of 8,000 information or to order your programme appalling events of June 2 that took place in spectators and it would be wonderful to see visit www.garrypurdham.co.uk and around Whitehaven. A minute’s silence took place at grounds Facing the Lions - Jamaica are ready for GB around the country soon after his death, but a memorial game at Whitehaven’s Recreation Ground will now pay fitting tribute to the memory of a man who played the game with great passion and Romeo Monteith, Rugby League Jamaican Jamaica and Rugby League are not words that you enthusiasm. The proceeds will go to Garry’s Development Officer, is integral to widow, Ros, and his young children, Flynn the expansion of Rugby League in a would usually associate with each other, but Rugby and Cameron. predominantly soccer country. The game, between England and Cumbria, One of their first steps along this League fever has hit the Caribbean Island as they takes place the day after the Engage Super development road was a tour of the UK prepare for the 2013 . League Grand Final, and will also serve as to play in the Carnegie Floodlit 9s at part of Steve McNamara’s preparations for Headingley Carnegie Stadium in August. But LOUISE FILDES finds out what all the fuss is about .... this autumn’s Four Nations tournament in as a warm up to this event, the Jamaican Australia and New Zealand. side took on the Great Britain Community “I am delighted to bring the England team Lions at The John Charles Centre for Sport. to Cumbria for this historic event,” said Even though the visitors lost 50- McNamara. “It has been a big effort from 22, Romeo was happy with his side’s everyone in Cumbria to get this game on, performance against an established and we, as England, are more than happy to International side. make as big a contribution as we can, raising “It was a good learning experience for the as much money as possible. boys, we took a lot of positives out of that “In terms of the game, I’m really, really game,” said Monteith. pleased from an England perspective that For us to put 22 points on the Great Britain we get the opportunity to play. The boys boys with ten local players from back home not involved in the Super League Grand was very good.” Final will get the chance to feature. There The Jamaican side were drawn in the are still places to play for ahead of the same group as Wigan Warriors and Hull FC Four Nations, so there’s a whole lot on this for the Carnegie Floodlit 9s, a tough ask game.” as Hull FC were the current holders of the Those members of the squad not tournament and the Warriors were flying involved in the Grand Final are likely to high in the Engage Super League. prospect for the local Jamaican players who coming over here is that they are natural feature for England, while Cumbria are “I was happy with our performance at the have never been to a stadium of that size. athletes, but we don’t need just natural hopeful of fielding a strong side captained Carnegie Floodlit 9s, added Monteith. Romeo and his team now have a tough athletes, we need trained natural athletes. by Garry Purdham’s England international “It was good to beat Hull but we were task ahead of them to get Jamaica ready The guys need to be in the gym, they need brother Rob, including Leeds’s , disappointed not to get a positive result for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. to take their nutrition seriously. But it’s Hull’s Ewan Dowes, and Harlequins’ Oliver against Wigan, I thought we could have But after a successful UK tour they now difficult as there is no professional game on Wilkes, if club commitments permit. done better, we only lost by one try. know what they need to do to be able to our island so it’s difficult for the boys to put Team manager Mark Fryer said, “It goes “The victory over Hull FC was a highlight challenge for honours in the biggest Rugby in the kind of work that is required if they without saying the background surrounding of this tour, they are a Super League team League competition in the world. dream to be in the World Cup in 2013. Being the game is the driver for an amazing after all and had a few first team players Monteith said, “We’ll take away a number over here in the UK should motivate them to response from both locally-based players in there. It was a very good performance of things from this trip, first and foremost, put the hard work in.” and the Cumbrian players playing in Super and I’m very happy about that. It was very technically we need to improve. If our Jamaican Rugby League looks set to League. Injuries and participation in the exciting, the crowd were cheering for standards are to be raised at club level, we build gradually with the current side due to Grand Final, which takes place the evening Jamaica, especially in our game against Hull, need to insist that the players improve their take part in the Atlantic Cup again this year before, will be the only barriers to fielding the boys really loved that.” skill level and their technical knowledge against the USA and Canada. the best Cumbrian side possible, something Whilst over in the UK, the Jamaican side also of the game, but also their physical The Hotels of Jacksonville.com 2010 RL we’ve always dreamed about up here.” made the trip to to watch conditioning. Atlantic Cup takes place on November 14 The match has been organised by a the Carnegie Challenge Cup final, an exciting “One of the things I keep hearing since – 22 in Jacksonville. committee formed by the late second

- 26 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 27 - Old Trafford is known HOW IT WAS WON as the “Theatre of 2009 (Leeds) v St Helens Dreams” – and for one Sinfield, who went on to star for England in the 2009 Four Nations, showed all his outstanding individual quality in a brilliant captain’s display as Leeds became the first team to win three every year, it is the successive Grand Finals. stage on which they write one of the finest 2008 (Leeds) v St Helens Despite being thrown in at full back after chapters of their career. ’s withdrawal through injury, Smith excelled. He scored Leeds’ first try The Harry Sunderland and was solid at the back. Award goes to the man 2007 (Leeds) v St Helens of the match in the Burrow got the better of opposite number and added a late to Engage Super League Leeds’ five tries in a 33-6 win. Grand Final. With this season’s climax just 2006 Paul Wellens (St Helens) v Hull There was no stopping St Helens in a 26-4 around the corner, NEIL victory. Wellens was superb, particularly in defence, as the Airlie Birds had their wings BARRACLOUGH takes a WHO WAS HARRY SUNDERLAND? clipped. Born in 1889, Harry Sunderland was a close-up look at one of Rugby League administrator and journalist who contributed to the sport in both 2005 (Bradford) v Leeds Rugby League’s most England and his native Australia. Pryce lined up on the wing and found his prestigious gongs .... Always determined, he left school in own way to the line as Bradford got revenge Toowoomba to start work on the local paper, for their defeat 12 months earlier. the Toowoomba Chronicle. By 1913, he was established as secretary of the (Leeds) v Bradford Rugby League – a position he held until 2004 Rugged and effective from dummy half, 1922. He briefly moved to Melbourne, but Diskin went over from close-range as Leeds returned to Queensland and was a member Past winners - Sinfield and Robinson Forty-five years ago, Halifax’s Terry Fogerty claimed their first title in 32 years. became the first man to lift the Harry of the Board of Sunderland Award for his outstanding Control between 1925-39. During that time, performance in the 1965 Championship Sunderland managed the Kangaroos’ tours 2003 (Bradford) v Wigan Final. of England in 1929-30, 1933-34 and 1937- A try-scorer in Bradford’s 25-12 triumph, Now, as Super League’s leading lights 38, before emigrating to become manager Reardon confirmed his arrival at the highest battle it out to add their own name to a of Wigan in 1939. level with a tremendous all-round display. list that includes the likes of Bev Risman, While in England, he went on to work as and , it is hard to a broadcaster and cover Rugby League for HONOUR & the Daily Mail. Survived by his wife and one 2002 (Bradford) v St Helens imagine a Rugby League calendar that does Deacon’s midfield mastery was immaculate not pay tribute to one of the sport’s early of their three sons, he died in Manchester on as ever, but Sean Long knocked over a last administrators. January 15 1964. minute drop goal to deny the Bulls. When Fogerty was presented with his award, Sunderland had only died during the previous year. At the time, Rugby HOW IT’S AWARDED 2001 (Bradford) v Wigan League fans were still aware of his role and Every member of the Rugby League Writers’ The talented Australian was on hand to influence on the sport. PRESTIGE Association is given a voting slip upon their blow Wigan away. Withers raced in for a But even if the knowledge of cost exactly how determined he was. Four one of only two Saints – Chris Joynt being entry to the media area at the Engage Super hat-trick, and Bradford got their first Grand Sunderland’s personal story is starting to years ago, Wellens also remembers keeping the other – to have picked up the Harry League Grand Final. Final victory. fade away, the current crop of elite players his own fingers crossed upon hearing the Sunderland Award since 1998. Votes are cast and counted just before are fully aware of the honour and prestige match-day announcer begin: “The winner of That fact alone shows how difficult a full time, with the Harry Sunderland Award Chris Joynt (St Helens) v Wigan that comes with the Harry Sunderland this year’s Harry Sunderland Award is…” target it is, and Wellens is clearly aware of winner being announced in the closing 2000 Joynt enjoyed a superb season at the turn of Award. “I thought I was in with a slight chance, the fortunate position he is in. stages of the season’s climax. Just ask Paul Wellens, who was presented but there were a couple of others who could “It’s something I’ll always cherish, and I’ll the century, with his injury-time play-off try with the trophy in 2006 after his starring have got it,” says Wellens. “Leon Pryce was be able to look back at it with immense pride against Bradford still widely remembered. role in St Helens’ Grand Final win against playing really well, and Willie Talau would when I’ve retired,” he says. He was outstanding as Saints secured back- Hull FC. have been in with a shout. “I’ve been fortunate enough to play in a to-back triumphs. He said, “I remember watching the “I remember pulling off a couple of try- few Grand Finals and win a few awards in Premiership Finals as a child. You’d always savers. There was one on rugby, both on a personal level and as a part (Bradford) v St Helens listen out for who had won the Harry and one on the winger – I’m not sure who of a team. The Harry Sunderland Award is 1999 Paul’s long-range try caught the eye, but the Sunderland Award, and in that sense it was – and they might just have given me right up there with the best of them.” evening was to end on a disappointing note it’s similar to the Trophy at the nod. At the time of writing, six players (Paul for the Kiwi international. Sean Long’s goal- Wembley. “It was a great night for the club as a Deacon, Matt Diskin, Paul Wellens, Rob kicking won it for Saints. “It’s an honour that’s held in high regard whole. When we won the Grand Final that Burrow, Lee Smith and Kevin Sinfield) are throughout Rugby League. To have actually year we completed a treble for the club. in with a chance of claiming the award for a won it during my career is absolutely It was a game in which we played a really second time – something achieved by only 1998 (Wigan) v Leeds fantastic.” good standard of rugby. I was just pleased Tait and Farrell. Robinson scorched through the Leeds line has already admitted how to be a part of it.” But for whoever does eventually land the just before half time for Wigan’s only try much he wanted to win this year’s Lance Despite St Helens’ years of success award, it will be a moment that stays with in their 10-4 triumph, his place in history Todd Trophy – and Leeds found out to their during the Super League era, Wellens is them for a lifetime. assured.

- 28 - RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN www.tryit.co.uk www.tryit.co.uk RUGBY LEAGUE BULLETIN - 29 - work they do is excellent. I just feel it is The Rugby League important to bring all these associations Bulletin caught up together and create a number of events and seminars where ex-players from the with RFL President professional game can meet up and share their experiences. Bev Risman to In the last ten years we have only had one event where all former players have understand what he been together and that was a great success with over a 1000 people attending. If we hopes to achieve in can create events of this magnitude on a more regular basis then it can only be office over the next positive for the game. I want to also work with the RFL 12 months. After Benevolent Fund and continue as a Top class - Sam Burgess Trustee on the RL Foundation to help raise nearly five decades awareness of the charities and their on- of active involvement going presence it has in the game. with the game since You have been heavily involved in the community game in the past, is going from strength-to-strength and result of Garry Purdham’s death. A number he turned professional including helping to set up the having worked first hand in London in the of events and matches have already taken past I know the value of the game and the place to honour Garry’s name. The memorial with Leigh in the Rugby League Conference. Does it excellent work that is being carried out to match between Cumbria and England will be make you proud to see the strides create awareness of the sport at grassroots a fitting testimony for the Purdham family. early 1960s, the the sport is starting to make at level. I hope the match can act as a catalyst to grassroots level It is important to have a top quality really catapult the game forward in Cumbria. 72-year-old former ? professional side that underpins the There is massive interest in the game and I have a great love for the community development that is carried out in London. the public love it but the area needs to be Great Britain captain game. When I was down in London myself, Kids that are interested in the game seeing the best players on a more regular Lionel Hurst, Julian Harrison, Hector McNeil need something to aspire to and a strong basis. revealed to DANNY and Tom O’Donovan started off the Rugby professional club capable of competing at It is unfortunate that at the highest League Conference and from those early the highest level of competition will give standards of the professional game there is REUBEN his hopes beginnings it gives me great pleasure to the next generation of players a clearly- no presence from a Cumbrian team. Maybe see how the competition has grown with defined path of playing for a professional the opportunity to play a high-quality match and aspirations for 120 teams now playing throughout the outfit in London. will stimulate some interest in developing a year across the country. That is testament the year ahead .... In addition, the excellent work still carried stronger presence for the professional game to the development work that is carried out out by BARLA shouldn’t go unnoticed. The in Cumbria. across all facets of the community game community game is the lifeblood of the and to see the Rugby League Conference sport and with the positive development thriving throughout the summer gives me Do you think England can win the that is starting to come to fruition, we a great thrill. I was privileged to be at the Four Nations should be proud that the game is the ? Grand Finals Day last month in Derby and We have such a wealth of good young strongest it has ever been. Credit should the enthusiasm shown by the players was players that are starting to prove their be given to all the administrators and gratifying to see. The delight they got from worth at international level. The likes volunteers that give up their time to enable In attendance - Bev looks on at Wembley actually winning a trophy or competing in a of Sam Tomkins, Sam Burgess and Kyle How proud were you to be to game to prosper at all levels. final was sensational. Eastmond are top class players who can appointed the RFL President? The community game in the capital already play at the highest level of the I regard it as probably my greatest honour. What do you enjoy about Rugby game. I am very optimistic for the future of To be appointed president of the governing League at the moment? the England team and if we can go into the body of the sport that you love –is difficult The spectacle of Super League is Four Nations with limited injuries to players to put into words the emotions I have had sensational. The competition is getting we will be able to compete with the best since I was appointed into office. It is a stronger every season and the recent from Australia and New Zealand. Making strides - the RLC great honour and I am thrilled to bits to be matches in the play-offs, in respect of skill I am looking forward to the tournament the first person to serve from outside the and intensity, have been like Test Matches. and will be heading out there to support Rugby League Council and will take on the Recognition should be given to the players the team. We should be optimistic and role with great pride over the next year for putting their bodies on the line and believe that we have every opportunity of ahead. creating fantastic contests week in, week progressing through to contest the final and HELLO out. They are a credit to the British game maybe winning a major tournament at long What do you hope to achieve in The whole game is prospering, whether last. office over the next 12 months? it is at junior level or the Super League It is mainly an ambassadorial role so I want competition, and I love to be involved. Having represented your country to be able to attend as many events as I Standards are steadily increasing in every at the highest level is this the can and support the game across the full aspect of the game and it is a delight to see spectrum from the community game to the players improving and progressing. pinnacle of a professional player’s MR PRESIDENT career pinnacle of the Super League competition. ? My plan is to visit every professional recent Rugby League Conference Grand It is mainly as a result of the British Lions With England taking on Cumbria I would like to believe so. I am certain ground in the country, if possible, at some Finals day in Derby which was a great Players’ Association which has been in the Garry Purdham memorial in Rugby League this has always been the stage over the next 12 months and meet spectacle for the game and I also attended wonderfully successful over the years. case. The opportunity to play at this level the many people that make up our game. an exciting inter services match between My objective is to bring together all the match before they head out to is limited with only a few international I have also been very interested in the the Army and the Navy at Aldershot. independent player associations and other Australasia for the Four Nations matches per season. I am sure players do development of the sport and I will offer my interested parties and effectively create a how much is the county looking look forward to pulling on the England experience and knowledge to help support You have said that you want National Players’ Association. It would be forward to hosting the national jersey and enjoy the honour of playing for the development programmes implemented to create a national players’ a massive step forward and I am talking to their country whenever they possibly can. by the RFL. people about that at the moment to see if team in what will be a poignant day Certainly for me, representing my country I have already attended a number of association, how’s that this will come to fruition. at Whitehaven? was the pinnacle of my Rugby League events arranged by the Community game progressing? There are a whole host of ex-player I feel it is critically important to support career and I treasured every moment. and was privileged to be a guest at the It is something that I am keen to promote. associations doing their own thing and the everything that has gone on in Cumbria as a

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