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Home , 2008 NRL grand final, 2009 European Cup, 2011 Championship Cup, 2020 Leeds Rhinos season, Ashley Klein, Don Fox

ANNUAL REPORT …Once again crowd records were broken, participation increased, the TV negotiations were successfully concluded and ongoing financial stability all contributed to building on the successes of the last few years. CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT 2-3

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S STATEMENT 4-5

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 6-7

OUR MISSION & VALUES 8-9

ENGLAND 10-13

ENGAGE 14-15

CARNEGIE 16-19

THE CO-OPERATIVE NATIONAL LEAGUES 20-21

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 22-23

THE EUROPEAN GAME 24-25

PERFORMANCE & COACHING 26-27

MATCH OFFICIALS 28-29

MARKETING & COMMERCIAL 30-31

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 32-49 CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT

I am pleased to report that 2008 was another year which saw A major project that concluded in 2008 was the licensing of continued success and progress for League in Great clubs to compete in engage Super League in the 2009-11 Britain. Once again crowd records were broken, participation seasons. The RFL’s Board were charged with the increased, the TV negotiations were successfully concluded and decision of which clubs would be admitted into Super League ongoing financial stability all contributed to building on the for the next three-year cycle. The project involved many parts of successes of the last few years. the Governing Body, and the Board were able to make considered and accurate decisions about which clubs were at The Carnegie Challenge Cup Final was back at Wembley for the the right level for Super League. The eventual decision was to second year, and the highlight of the calendar did not increase Super League to 14 clubs, with Celtic Crusaders and fail to disappoint. St Helens were the ultimate victors on the day, City Reds joining the existing 12 clubs from 2008. beating Hull FC in front of an almost sell-out crowd. In October Clare Morrow joined the Board, filling the vacancy The major disappointment of the year was the performance of left by Ian Edwards. I would like to take this opportunity to in the first Rugby League since 2000. The thank Ian for his hard work during his time as a non-Executive tournament in the southern hemisphere was not the end to the Director. Clare is proving to be a strong and active Board that everyone had hoped for, with England playing member, and brings her experiences in the marketing and poorly and ultimately being knocked out of the tournament in broadcast arenas to the Board. She has already contributed the semi-finals. However, both the Ireland and Scotland teams, very effectively to the many opportunities and challenges that which the RFL organised and funded, did their nations proud Rugby League faces and I’m sure will continue to provide a with Ireland qualifying for the latter stage of the competition great deal to the work of the Board. before finally being eliminated by . The tournament itself was very successful, both commercially, and in terms of attendances I usually end my annual report by thanking clubs, volunteers, and TV viewers. In parallel tournaments the England teams staff and everyone associated with Rugby League for their hard representing the country in the Combined Services competition work and support throughout the year. Once again I believe that and the Wheelchair competition were both victorious. England it is entirely appropriate and accurate to do so. I believe that Women’s Rugby League also competed well in their tournament, 2009 will undoubtedly bring new challenges, but we will all face reaching the semi-finals of the competition. these challenges together and continue the work of progressing the we all love. The TV negotiations, which had commenced in 2007, came to a satisfactory conclusion in 2008. New broadcast contracts were signed with the BBC and Sky for both the RFL and Super Richard Lewis League. The contracts which run from 2009 to 2011 saw an increase in the amount of money that comes into the sport, Chairman which will obviously have a knock-on effect on how much will be distributed to the member clubs going forward.

2 3 4 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S STATEMENT

I am very happy to report that for the seventh consecutive year the in the economy, but careful management of costs, including RFL has delivered an operating profit which has contributed staff following set rules and procedures to keep costs at as low towards producing our strongest ever balance sheet. In 2008 the a level as possible, is required going forward to ensure that any RFL delivered its highest turnover ever, and in a year where there downturns in our levels of income have a reduced effect. was no home international series, this is a remarkable achievement. The RFL undertook a number of pieces of substantial work during The Carnegie Challenge Cup Final at Wembley was attended by 2008 including , the creation of new 82,821 fans who created a fantastic atmosphere. This occasion regulations compelling clubs to generate more home grown players continues to be an iconic event in the Rugby League calendar and finally modifications of the disciplinary system to speed up the and a highlight for players, supporters and sponsors alike. process and improve the consistency of adjudications. Despite their cup success, St Helens were defeated for the Licensing was an extremely complex and time consuming piece second consecutive year in the engage Super League Grand of work, but one which the game responded extremely positively Final by Rhinos and Salford City Reds did the double to and one which resulted in an expanded Super League of 14 winning both the Co-operative National League One clubs, including for the first time a Welsh based club. and Northern Rail Cup. Thunder and both In an attempt to improve the supply of players available to won promotion from the Co-operative National League Two. support the national sides, the Super League clubs Internationally 2008 did not include a home international series unanimously approved the instigation of rules requiring due to the in . Unfortunately clubs to invest increased sums in junior development the England team were not successful bowing out in the semi- systems and meet targets on the number of home grown finals to the eventual winners – the first time players at their clubs. Clubs are to be congratulated for since the competition began in 1954 that either England (or recognising the importance of this initiative and Great Britain) or Australia have not won the Cup. enthusiastically supporting its objectives. England did have success in other World Cups, with the Finally, the disciplinary process saw the recommendations which Wheelchair team and Combined Services teams both being had been presented to Council late in 2007 implemented. These victorious in their relevant tournaments. changes were well received and the whole process ran very smoothly. As the Chairman mentioned in last year’s report, the The organisers in Australia ran a financially successful World Cup disciplinary processes of Rugby League are admired and and the profits from the competition are retained by the RLIF. respected throughout British sport and it is important this The organisation’s commercial performance was again strong in position is maintained. 2008 and the RFL’s portfolio of partners has been enhanced Rugby League Services continues to provide a valuable and further with the addition of Gillette as an RFL partner, important service to the whole of the community game, to complementing their support of the England team and BARLA, Combined Services, Conference Leagues, Schools and international competitions. Several other partners also renewed Students. It is vital that the RFL through Rugby League Services their relationships with the RFL. communicates effectively with the grass roots of the sport and Rugby League’s ability to deliver upon the Government’s health ensures that participation levels continue to rise. and activity agenda continues to be recognised and attracts I would like to finish by taking this opportunity to thank all the support on both revenue and capital fronts. It is important to RFL staff and volunteers for contributing to another healthy acknowledge that the public purse assists the sport from a year for the sport in 2008. I would also like to thank the players, wider perspective than merely the funding that flows through clubs and everyone else associated with Rugby League for all the RFL. Many clubs, both professional and community, take their hard work during the year. advantage of the numerous initiatives and schemes that are available to various sectors of the game. This improves both participation and the environment at which participation occurs. The RFL constantly monitors central operating costs to ensure Nigel Wood that they remain at acceptable levels. The current economic climate has not impacted the RFL to the extent seen elsewhere Chief Executive Officer

5 Richard Lewis - Chairman Appointed as RFL Chairman in April 2002, Richard dedicates his time to developing the game nationally and internationally and maximising key external stakeholder relationships. Richard was recently appointed Chair of Sport England, and is currently Chair of the Rugby League European Federation and Deputy Chair of the Rugby League International Federation. Prior to his career in Rugby League, Richard was the former Director of Tennis at the Lawn Tennis Association and before that was an international tennis player and coach.

Nigel Wood - Chief Executive Officer Appointed Chief Executive of the RFL in October 2007 after six years as Finance Director and Chief Operating Officer, Nigel has led the organisation's financial recovery which resulted in the incorporation in 2006 as well as consecutive years of profitable trading. At international level, Nigel is a Director of Rugby League’s European Federation. In addition to this he serves as a trustee of the RFL Facilities Trust and the Rugby League National Museum, Heritage and Arts Foundation. Before joining the RFL, Nigel was Chief Executive of Halifax RLFC during their time in Super League. He had previously enjoyed a long career playing and administrating in grass roots Rugby League. Prior to this he worked as Deputy Head of Finance for BBC North.

Maurice Watkins - Non-Executive Director As a senior partner at Brabner Chaffe Street, a successful law firm based in , Maurice is one of the most prominent lawyers in sport. A Director of the world's biggest club, Manchester United FC, he also holds a number of high-profile positions in football both at home and abroad. He is a Director of the British Association for Sport and Law, a member of the FA Advisory Group, Regional Chairman for Coutts Bank, Chairman of the Greyhound Board for Great Britain, and Chairman of the New Manchester Children’s Hospital Appeal.

Bob Stott - Non-Executive Director Bob has extensive experience in the highly competitive supermarket industry including 29 years at Director level with Morrison's Plc including a highly successful period as the organisation's Chief Executive. Bob is currently a Non-Executive Director on the Boards of Leeds Building Society, the Greyhound Board for Great Britain and Frank Roberts & Sons Ltd (Bakery). Bob brings a wealth of experience to the RFL having enjoyed a track record of success and delivery in an organisation where cost control was of paramount importance. He also boasts strong commercial skills and significant experience on various Board committees, as well as being a keen follower of many .

Clare Morrow - Non-Executive Director Clare is currently Chair of the Welcome to Board, having previously spent 15 years at ITV Yorkshire. She joined the broadcaster in 1992 and within nine years was Controller of Programmes in Yorkshire before becoming Controller of Programmes across the north. During her time at ITV, Clare also held the position of Head of Sport and was responsible for Yorkshire Television’s Rugby League output for many years. This included the creation, development and production of the Rugby League Raw series of programmes which won several national sports awards. As well as being the Chair of the Yorkshire Tourist Board, Clare also sits on the Board of the Playhouse, the University of ’s Industrial Advisory Board and the Network Manager of the Broadcasting and Creative Industries Disability Network.

6 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Our team of directors are selected as carefully as our players. All non-executive directors go through the election process by the RFL Council as soon as possible after their appointment. They are then subject to re-election at regular intervals of at least every three years. Non executive directors retire by rotation and may be immediately re-elected. Ian Edwards resigned as a non-executive Director during 2008. Clare Morrow was also appointed as a non-executive Director during the year.

To mirror the performance expected on the field, the Board undertakes a formal and rigorous annual evaluation of its own performance and that of its committees and individual directors. The evaluation includes a review of whether each director continues to contribute effectively and demonstrate a commitment to the role (including commitment of time for Board and committee meetings and any other duties). The evaluation process is used solely to improve Board effectiveness, maximise strengths and identify areas that could be improved even further.

Our strong management team, under the leadership of the Chief Executive Officer, is responsible for the day-to-day management of the RFL. The Board of Directors receive written reports from every member of the senior management team at every Board meeting, and may also demand attendance or updates at Board meetings from individual departmental managers, should there be significant issues to discuss in a particular area.

The key to our consistently strong management and performance of the RFL is the rigorous organisation of the business through four key areas:- Commercial, Compliance & Regulatory, On-Field Management and Participation, together with a fifth, Central Services, which provide support to all areas.

The Board Committees The Remuneration Committee Within the Board three specific committees have been The Remuneration Committee determines the terms and established, each with defined terms of reference. Minutes of conditions of employment for executive directors and agrees the meetings are circulated to and reviewed by the Board. the level of remuneration for senior managers whose earnings are in excess of the Committee’s prescribed limit. The Audit Committee This Committee meets once a year with representatives of the The Nominations Committee external auditors. The Audit Committee will consider the annual The RFL believes that there should be a formal and transparent report and accounts before submission to RFL Council for procedure for appointing new members to the Board of approval and review accounting practices to ensure compliance Directors. To support this, the Board has established a with accounting standards. In addition it will appoint the external Nominations Committee which will lead the process for board auditors, give consideration to the scope of past and future appointments. audits, deal with matters arising from the audit and review internal control procedures.

7 THE DNA OF RFL

VISION To be recognised throughout the world as a leading Governing Body of Sport

MISSION The RFL is committed to managing, developing and promoting Rugby League and providing excellent, high quality services for the whole Rugby League family

VALUES FAIR DARE CARE SHARE We are Fair, open, honest We Dare to achieve and inclusive demonstrating our objectives through integrity to all innovation We Care for our We Share through stakeholders, the teamwork, open environment and the sport communication and spreading best practice

8 OUR MISSION AND VALUES

Our People Our Communities We recognise that we can only go forward if we fully support the As a leading National Sports Governing Body we are committed to people within our team. Our people are at the heart of our transforming our local communities with our open approach to corporate agenda. We recognise that without their commitment, corporate social responsibility encompassing cash donations, professionalism and expertise in delivering excellent customer support for volunteering, environmentally friendly practices and service, we wouldn’t be able to achieve our goals. We are investment in our people. In line with this commitment we have committed to providing ongoing investment in the personal supported a number of sports related charities including the RFL development of our people, so that they are able to become all that Benevolent Fund, the Rugby League Foundation and the Rugby they can be. We fully support all opportunities for employment, League Heritage Trust. We support these organisations in cash career progression and development, irrespective of age, ethnicity, and in kind. Our future plans for this area the will see us gender, disability or religion through our equality and diversity underpinning our community support with initiatives that will make action plan. This was so important to us, that we decided to a real difference. consult, and listen to our people when drawing up the RFL’s core During the year the RFL Benevolent Fund continued to make a values. The work that started in 2008, will continue in 2009, to number of grants to help the rehabilitation of recently injured embed these values throughout the RFL. The values identified players, or, to enhance the quality of life of those for whom through the process can be summarised as Fair, Care, Share and rehabilitation is no longer an option. Dare. This is how we define them: During the year 97 separate payments totalling £148,770 were FAIR We are fair, open, honest and inclusive made to, or on behalf of beneficiaries of the Benevolent Fund demonstrating integrity to all. compared with 79 totalling £112,060 in 2007 CARE We care for our stakeholders, the environment and The Rugby League Foundation also made grants to beneficiaries the sport. throughout the year, principally to assist with Community Coaches. SHARE We share through teamwork, open communication In all 21 separate payments totalling £69,990 were made to and spreading best practice. beneficiaries compared with 11 totalling £27,102 in 2007. DARE We dare to achieve our objectives through innovation.

We believe that by following the above values we will ensure that the RFL is delivering the best service to the people who work for us, as well as the people we work for.

9 10 11 ENGLAND

2008 saw mixed fortunes for England sides. However uncertain Kiwis who would later create one of the biggest upsets in the results, what was consistent was that the international game sporting history by beating the Australians on home soil to be took an almighty step forward following the successful staging of crowned the World Champions for the first time ever. the 13th Rugby League World Cup, the first in eight years. Although this determined England team did not perform as well as To prepare for the tournament England played two games expected at the World Cup, other sides certainly did. Both the during 2008, one against in mid-June and one against Ireland and Scotland teams, which the RFL organised and funded, in early October. did their nations proud. Scotland recorded their first World Cup victory and Ireland qualified for the latter stages of the competition. Toulouse was the venue for the mid-season Gillette Fusion International, the first game under the new England brand. In other World Cup tournaments organised in Australia, the Despite hot and sticky conditions England recorded a resounding England Wheelchair team went through their entire tournament 56-8 victory over France in front of 8,326 spectators. unbeaten and were crowned World Champions following their 44-12 victory over Australia in . This was followed in October by a 74-0 win over Wales in the Gillette Fusion International staged at the . It The Great Britain Combined Services team were also World Cup was the first time Doncaster had staged a Rugby League winners beating Australia 26-12 in the final which was played International and in the 11,263 crowd were 2,000 members of as a curtain raiser to the Australia and Fiji semi-final in Sydney. the Armed Forces who benefited from free tickets to the game Under the stewardship of Coach Brenda Dobek, the England as part of the RFL’s support for the charity ‘Help for Heroes’. Women’s side also gave a creditable performance in reaching the The World Cup involving 10 teams proved to be a major success semi-finals of the World Cup. They only missed out on a final place for international Rugby League, with games broadcast in over due to a 16-4 defeat by eventual world champions New Zealand. 125 countries and the competition making a healthy profit. England Students reached the final of their competition, losing England started their campaign with a hard fought 32-22 to hosts Australia 26-18, and in the Police World Cup, Great victory over a passionate Papua New Guinea side in . Britain Police came fourth. In their second group game England were on the wrong side of Looking firmly to the future, the highlight of the 2009 a heavy 52-4 defeat by host nation Australia in . international calendar will be the Four Nations tournament Despite a much improved performance in the final group game featuring Australia, France, England and New Zealand - quite a held in Newcastle, England suffered another defeat. New formidable line-up. Fixtures will be played in England and France Zealand’s narrow 36-24 victory stirred England’s fighting spirit and games will broadcast on the BBC and in the UK for a repeat encounter a week later in the semi-finals. as well as 40 countries worldwide. In a tough and bruising encounter which saw the lead change on a number of occasions England were defeated 32-22 by the

12 13 14 ENGAGE SUPER LEAGUE

This has been a great year for engage Super League. 2008 also witnessed one of the most ground breaking Attendance increased significantly, with the season going down innovations in British sport, the awarding of licenses for clubs to as the most well attended in the competition’s history, remain in the engage Super League between 2009 and 2011. attracting a staggering aggregate crowd of 1,674,809 over The 19 clubs that applied for licences were assessed across 27 weekly rounds. four main areas – stadium facilities, finance and business performance, commercial and marketing, and playing strength Four clubs – , Giants, Hull KR and including junior player production development. Wildcats all recorded their biggest ever average crowds in the Super League, while Harlequins RL and St Helens A decision was taken to expand Super League to 14 clubs with reported year on year growth. all 12 existing engage Super League clubs awarded a license. Three of them – , Hull FC and Wolves saw their crowds rise for the fourth were given A grades. Salford City Reds and Celtic Crusaders consecutive year and their average crowd for the season were also awarded licences meaning that for the first time in reached a record 8,179, which was up by 15 per cent on 2007. the competition’s history Wales would have its own Super This figure was bolstered by a record home crowd of 15,629 at League side from 2009. the Galpharm Stadium for the opening round fixture against Leeds Rhinos, a gate that beat the club’s 10 year best by 3,000.. On the field and in front of a 33,208 crowd at , Leeds Rhinos were crowned Carnegie Likewise Hull KR also saw their average crowd grow by nearly champions in February following a hard fought 11-4 victory 20 per cent on the previous year to 8,376, due to an increase in over NRL champions in atrocious conditions. capacity at New Craven Park. This resulted in the club beating their home record crowd on three occasions in 2008. Round 7 May saw all 12 Super League clubs head to to play their against Hull FC saw 9,284 supporters fill the ground. This record Round 13 fixtures as part of the annual event. was broken again in Round 12 when 9,391 were in attendance A crowd of 63,144 attended the two day carnival of Rugby for the visit of Leeds Rhinos. Finally a staggering crowd of League in the Welsh capital, an increase of nearly 4,500 on the 10,197 saw Rovers beat rivals Hull FC in Round 27. previous year proving that the event is fast becoming a fan’s favourite. This was also the first time that a full round of Catalans Dragons continued to progress both on and off the fixtures had benefited from video referee technology. field, during their third season in the league. Finishing third in the league to reach the for the first time, they saw their Soon after this highly successful event it was announced that in average crowd increase to 8,376. Wakefield’s average crowd also 2009 and 2010 the event would be held in . Another rose for the seventh consecutive season to 6,996 per game. testament to the resounding success the game is enjoying. Super League XIII’s televised coverage also made excellent Showing dogged determination, and an unbelievable will to progress with more TV viewers tuning into the regular season, succeed despite a 38-10 defeat to League Leaders Shield playoffs and Grand Final then ever before. winners St Helens in the Qualifying Semi-Final of the playoffs, Leeds Rhinos bounced back to become only the second team The weekly rounds saw a 1.25 per cent increase in viewing ever to win back-to-back Grand Finals in front of figures, whilst the playoffs saw an 11 per cent growth in armchair 68,810 supporters. They also became the first ever side to win viewers compared to 2007. The Grand Final attracted the biggest the Carnegie World Club Challenge and the engage Super League ever peak in audience numbers during the Super League era, Grand Final in the same year. A phenomenal success from a breaking the previous best set in 2006 by 7.6 per cent. phenomenal side.

15 The Final was another spectacular day out for the Rugby League family

16 17 CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP

In its 111 year history, only one team had managed to win the A total of 34,558 supporters witnessed the two semi-finals - competition a remarkable three times in a row. That was until the biggest aggregate attendance since 1994. Saints, 2008 when St Helens became the second side to achieve this appearing in their eighth consecutive semi-final, triumphed over honour when they defeated Hull FC in the 2008 final at Wembley. Leeds in front of 19,842 at the Galpharm Stadium whilst 14,716 saw Hull FC win a thrilling contest against Wakefield Wildcats at Played in front of 83,000 people the action on the field matched Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium. the scorching temperatures off it on one of the hottest days of the year, as Saints came from behind with 18 minutes to go to The final was another spectacular day out for the Rugby League record a 28-16 victory. This was a far cry from back in February at family with supporters from all clubs represented amongst the the start of the competition when nearly 100 teams began the sun-drenched Wembley crowd. In addition to the players of seven month long journey to Wembley. St Helens and Hull FC the final saw a number of famous guests grace the famous Wembley turf before kick-off, and again at half-time. Joining grassroots teams were sides from Russia, France, Scotland, Wales and England as well as The Army, The Royal Players from the much talked about 1968 Watersplash Final Air Force and the Royal Navy. The Army faired well in the between Wakefield and Leeds were given a standing ovation from early rounds of the competition and were rewarded with a the crowd before the stadium fell silent to observe a tribute to the third round tie against Co-operative National League side trophy winner from that year, , who sadly Oldham. Unfortunately, despite a gallant performance they passed away in the weeks leading up to the final. went down 56-10. At half-time three members of the Great Britain men’s coxless The fourth round nearly saw a number of shocks, Leigh pushed four rowing team paraded on the pitch to show off their gold close before losing out 28-16 and medals won just weeks earlier at the Beijing . Rovers nearly claimed the scalp of the 2007 Not only was 2008 the second year the Carnegie Challenge Cup finalists Catalans Dragons who eventually ran out 22-12 winners. was back at the new but it was also the The fifth round witnessed one of the most exciting games in recent second year of the RFL’s association with Leeds Metropolitan Carnegie Challenge Cup history. In a see-saw encounter that tested University who, under their Carnegie brand, are the sponsors of the emotions of both sets of supporters, St Helens beat Warrington Rugby League’s most historic and prestigious competition. A 40-34 in a 13 try thriller in front of the BBC cameras. truly enviable collaboration.

18 19 20 THE CO-OPERATIVE NATIONAL LEAGUES

2008 became a record breaking year for the Co-operative classroom work, assemblies and mentoring. A record £1.894 million National League and Northern Rail Cup competitions as this was brought in by The Co-operative National League clubs in 2008 dynamic and successful tier of the sport continued to grow and from a diverse range of partners, an increase on the £1.814m develop. Tumbling records included: brought in, in 2007. Half of the latter figure was thanks to the government’s successful Sportsmatch scheme. s ss sss Biggest ever crowd for a single game Due to the new license application process, it wasn’t possible to Best supported National League 1 season in 11 years move into the engage Super League simply by winning the league, yet the clubs who finished in the top two of each Highest amount of funding ever brought in for division did end up progressing. The Co-operative National community projects League 1 winners Salford City Reds RLFC and runners up Celtic Crusaders RLFC gained a Super League licence for 2009-2011. Record number of televised games As two clubs progressed from National League 1 and one was First ever National League 2 club to reach the relegated, it was possible for three National League 2 clubs to Northern Rail Cup Final gain promotion for the 2009 Season. Co-operative National League 2 winners RLFC and runners up The 2008 Co-operative National League 1 campaign was the RLFC were automatically promoted. The third best supported season at this level of Rugby League for 11 club to seal promotion was Doncaster, who beat Oldham 18-10 years. The average weekly attendance over 18 rounds of the in the National League 2 Grand Final at Warrington. regular season was 2,205 supporters, an increase of 10% on the previous year, which was in itself a record year. The same The Northern Rail Cup Final continued to be hosted at division also saw an aggregate total of almost 200,000 in the seaside resort of with another supporters through the gates. National League 2 enjoyed healthy crowd of 6,328. The National League’s stand out team, average attendances of 727 spectators. Salford City Reds RLFC, proved worthy winners of the Cup against the first ever National League 2 club to reach the final, The record crowd for a club game at this level of competition Doncaster RLFC. Salford City Reds,’ John Wilshire equalled the all was also set at the Stobart Stadium when defeated time record for goals in any final with a staggering 10. Salford 20-18 in front of 8,189. National League 1 posted 20 gates over 3,000, with 19 of these 20 fixtures involving Salford, Although the record breaking season meant that a lot of things Widnes or Celtic in some capacity, the other being Leigh versus changed, fundamentally, many of the things that were inherent Whitehaven. in the Co-operative National League’s success stayed the same. The competition still operated with promotion and relegation The broadcast agreement saw extended coverage of the between its two divisions and the for both divisions Co-operative National League and Northern Rail Cup continued to operate. The new points system introduced in competition in 2008; with the number of games being televised 2007 continued, which included one point for a team that lost a moving from 20 in 2007 to 27 games appearing on SKY. match by 12 or less points. Thus generating an increased level The Thursday Night Thrillers lived up to their billing, with great of competition, interest and talking points. The two principle entertainment on the pitch and many clubs posting their best sponsors in the Co-operative and Northern Rail stayed the attendance of the season on these nights. same, as did the Thursday night coverage on SKY. The National League continued to be well represented in the The Co-operative National League playoffs and Finals Day Carnegie Challenge Cup with Oldham Roughyeds RLFC proved to be as popular as ever and the RFL Club Support Unit progressing to the quarter finals of the competition and many continued to assist clubs with off-field development. These competitive ties against engage Super League opposition. points continue to provide the foundation for a competition which is developing at tremendous pace both in terms of playing All Co-operative National League clubs continued to employ full standards and all-round excitement. time community staff and deliver activities such as coaching,

21 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Diversity was the key to the continued development of 394 schools participating in 2008 with a total of 23,570 grassroots Rugby League in 2008, as participation levels children between Years 7 and 11. This represents significant continued to grow there was a relentless drive to improve the growth from the inaugural competition in 2002, when 88 environment for everyone who takes part in the sport. The schools participated with a total of 5,168 children. diverse range of competitions, programmes, communication Clubs continued to be at the heart of everything delivered; with channels and people involved in Rugby League were supported the health of the club sector being an essential marker for by increasingly specialised staff and resources, allowing greater grassroots development. Junior playing leagues continued to be empowerment and support to those involved. played in the Northwest, Yorkshire, Cumbria, North East, for the over 35s was introduced in the Midlands, & the South, Wales and Scotland. Growth in UK for the first time, with many clubs hosting festivals which the adult sector was highlighted with the growing number of successfully brought back many players who had long since teams in the merit leagues that underpin the RLC leagues. hung up their boots. Highlights included a touring Australian Protecting all those involved in Rugby League was again squad and 73 year old Jimmy Airnes from Blackpool playing with paramount and the RFL held its inaugural Safeguarding conference his 49 year old son Graeme Airnes. for the community game in 2008. The number of clubs with League continued to grow in popularity and Welfare Officers increased from 40% to 65% and the RFL carried the England Wheelchair team enjoyed tremendous success by out a record number of CRB checks during 2008 almost 50% up on winning the World Cup in Australia, a competition that ran in the number in 2007 which was itself a record year. parallel with the main event. Other versions of the sport such as Research into the community game was paramount in 2008, as and TAG continued to be run by local clubs and groups the RFL reflected on the results of their long term delivery plans across the country. These enticed many new people into Rugby which were coming to an end and looked to gain a greater League and help to retain a lot more, many playing the modified understanding of requirements for new plans for 2009 versions of Rugby League because they simply find competitive onwards. The results of the research, along with a portfolio of 13-a-side Rugby League too demanding. ‘League for All’ is evidence, also played a key part in the successful lottery becoming a key engagement tool for the sport. application to Sport England for the RFL’s Whole Sport Plan. Investment into specialised staff continued as Match Official Research into facilities indicated the sport required Development Officers (DOs) supported the recruitment, retention £21,250,000 of investment, research into teen boys, in and development of match officials. Another successful Rugby conjunction with Carnegie, highlighted the reasons boys play or League grant application to ‘V’ ensured new Volunteer DOs could don’t play the sport, youth forums brought ideas from children do likewise for volunteers in 2008. Coaches at community clubs and numerous collected case studies provided guidance to plans had support through local Club and Coach DOs. Modified versions and strategy being put in place in 2008 to drive the future of the sport were pushed through League for All DOs, Community growth and improvement in Rugby League. With the Active Sports Coaches drove participation levels up and Service Area People Survey stating 102,000 people would like to play more Coordinators provided local leadership and general support. These Rugby League and research by Sheffield Hallam University full-time appointments coupled with the professional clubs showing participation in rugby was predicted to grow by 17% by increasingly wide reaching community programmes ensured 2013; the future of the game looks bright! unprecedented levels of support, activity and understanding. December 2008 brought about the fantastic news that the RFL The increased interest and profile of the sport due to the 2008 had secured around £30million, to cover the four year period Rugby League World Cup in Australia brought many new people to from April 2009-March 2013 from Sport England. This was in Rugby League for the first time. Launching the TRY IT campaign recognition of the RFL being a proven deliverer and its with the Co-operative in the lead up to the World Cup became a submission in how Rugby League would hit Sport England’s key recruitment tool for the grassroots game. The TRY IT website objectives of Grow, Sustain and Excel. This significant funding saw 775 new people sign up to Rugby League: 445 players, 119 and plan forms part of the wider RFL Business Plan which would coaches, 98 volunteers and 113 match officials. continue to drive the improvements in grassroots Rugby League The Carnegie Champion Schools tournament continued to be and the diverse range of rewarding activities this entails. the sports flagship schools competition for boys and girls with

22 23 RLIF Official World Rankings:

2008 WORLD CUP TEAMS:

Australia PNG New Zealand Ireland England Fiji Scotland France

PARTICIPATION IN 2008 WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION:

Lebanon USA Wales Russia Japan Cook Islands

ALL TEAMS IN REGULAR INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS:

Italy Latvia Germany Estonia Czech Republic

BASED ON RESULTS AGAINST FRIENDLY REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS

South Africa Malta Ukraine Morocco Niue Greece Tokelau

UNRANKED WITH 'OFFICIAL OBSERVER STATUS'

The following countries are unranked but recognised with 'official observer status' due to the presence of development personnel establishing the roots of the game within their borders:

Catalonia Cuba Norway Hawaii Sweden Hungary Portugal Belgium United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Solomon Is. Pakistan Panama Denmark

24 THE EUROPEAN GAME

The message from the Rugby League European Federation Ukranian Rugby League was given a boost when the national (RLEF) during 2008 was simple; to encourage more countries to side ran the touring ‘GB Student RL Chairman’s XIII’ very close, play a greater number of competitive domestic and the visiting ‘Pioneers’ continuing to act as superb ambassadors representative fixtures at various levels. for initiating the sport in new territories. When the official World Rankings were released after the autumn To cope with the increased demand and interest, the European World Cup down under, an increasing number of nations were Federation strengthened its organisation with the appointment listed, many of which came under the RLEF banner. Some of the of Christophe Jouffret as their new Regional Director for France, members, although outside the continent, such as Jamaica, are still whose duties also include looking after French-speaking nations. supported by the RLEF, because of close cultural links and ties to Development Officers were part-funded in Malta, Czech the member states. Republic, Jamaica and Germany and the first tentative steps The RLEF has three ‘Full Members’ – England, France and Russia. have been taken towards establishing Rugby League in A number of ‘Associate Members’, all of whom either played in the Pakistan, following a visit by RLEF Executive and Development global jamboree or in to get to Australia, together with Officer Kevin Rudd to Islamabad. a growing number of countries at the start of their development of The issuing of television rights to Eastern Europe and Italy to cover the code, who have been given ‘Official Observer’ status. engage Super League and Carnegie Challenge Cup ties for the first The overall progress and enhanced interest was measured by time raised awareness and respect for the code and the Federation the highest number of competitions organised in an expanded is sending out its much-anticipated newsletter detailing its international calendar, with some notable winners crowned. activities, to an increasing number of interested parties. In the prestigious ‘Euro Med Challenge’, for the three nations Meetings twice a year of the member nations has allowed who just missed out on the World Cup finals, Russia took the preliminary planning to be put in place to encourage and establish honours after defeating and Serbia. a full calendar of events at all levels for the next five seasons, to continue to bring the game to as wide an audience as possible. Italy triumphed over Germany at home and the Czech Republic in Prague to hoist the ‘Euro Shield’, while Latvia claimed the As far as the future growth of the game in concerned, the ‘Euro Bowl’ with a two-legged success against Estonia. immediate prospects look set to come from Scandinavia and in the Middle East. Both the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are The eight-team ‘Under 18’s Euro Nations Cup’, held in two centres scheduled to stage senior and junior clashes. Overall, the sport in the Czech capital drew significant crowds who watched some is set to widen its field to an unprecedented level. scintillating rugby by the stars of the future. Wales sensationally defeated previous holders France in the Final, while Scotland took the Shield with a thrilling extra time win over Serbia.

25 PERFORMANCE AND COACHING

2008 has been a significant year of change for Performance and The evolving RFL research group has produced some excellent Coaching in the RFL. A complete review of the player development research and our partnership with Leeds Metropolitan pathway was initiated, resulting in a revised talent development University published cutting edge information on player pathway that will provide a clear link between schools, community development and the effects of maturation in Rugby League, a clubs and professional clubs. Extensive research was completed to concept called Relative Age Effect. Kevin Till, supported by the ensure that the evolution of the current RFL pathway was based RFL, identified the significant impact of early maturation and upon world leading practice in player development. birth dates have on our current player development pathway. To improve the development of quality players, clubs will be Quartile distributions of junior Rugby League players supported to build clearly defined pathways for players from the in the Under 13-15 categories (combined) according school playground to professional club and international success. to performance level. The measurement of the system will be: ss ss 60.00 A well-defined player pathway that sets out clear progressions with quality standards from school to club to 50.00 professional club that players move through to elite level.

40.00 An increase in the number and quality of players that have access to talent development opportunities and progress to

% 30.00 Super League and clubs An increase in the number of players that are world class and 20.00 move to international levels. This is a long term measure and

10.00 links with the RFL seven point plan.

0.00 Community Service Area Regional National Carnival National Selection Level Q1 % Q2 % Q3 % Q4 %

How it will look: National Elite Training Squad RFL Talent Player Development Pathway 2010-16 National U18 First Grade National Academy Championship U16

Scholarship

Talent Development Groups

Amateur Club Amateur Club

Primary School Secondary School FE and University

U8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 <30

Fundamentals Learn to Train Train to Train Train to Win

Train to Compete Retirement and Retention

26 The shift from current player performance to player In coaching, 2008 saw the RFL recognised as a UK Coaching potential on the talent pathway will see a move away from Framework Trailblazer sport by sports coach UK, representative rugby, with players identified, monitored acknowledging that we are driving forward a coaching and tracked through the appropriate environment. The system that is aiming to be a world leader by 2012. In 2008, focus on player development enables coaches to the UK Coaching Certificate Level 3 course was piloted and concentrate on the improvement of players as individuals the Level 4 course was endorsed by the UK Coaching across all competencies. Standards Board. The Level 4 course has been developed through an innovative partnership with 4 other national Service Area Player Development Squads and Regional governing bodies of sport: Table Tennis, , Squash, Player Development Squads will operate at U13, U14, and the University of Central (UCLAN). U15 and U16 with professional club Scholarships The Rugby League Level 4 will provide access for coaches to working with the U15 and U16 age groups. A national gain a vocational qualification and also a post-graduate framework will be delivered regionally allowing for diploma validated through UCLAN. localised need and flexibility. Elite Development Squads will be selected at U16 and U18, these players will In course delivery a total of 106 courses have been delivered benefit from central support and monitoring in addition (at Level 1 and at Level 2) with a total of 1345 coaches to the development programme they receive within their receiving new qualifications. This is the greatest number of club. The squads will play regular international fixtures coach education courses ever delivered in a single year. as part of their development to enable players to gain a In the drive to support existing coaches to get better through greater experience of intense elite competition. The Continuous Professional Development, the Club and Coach professional clubs have embraced the apprenticeship Development Officers have supported individuals to develop ‘model’ of employment with a number embarking on the personal learning goals and complete bridging programmes Advanced Apprenticeship in Sport Excellence. The to move from the old coach education courses to the new UK Apprenticeship provides a full time environment in which Coaching Certificate. In forging partnerships with SkillsActive the players can prepare, develop and grow as individuals and the new National Skills Academy over £12,470 has been and Rugby League players. received through new sources of funding to support coaches At junior international level, the English Schools U16s and coach development activity. completed a successful tour of France and the England Youth U15s were successful in a very competitive game against the Welsh U16s. The U16s English Schools Team lost the first game narrowly 26 to 24 in extremely heavy blizzard conditions at the foot of the Pyrenees before winning convincingly in the second test 36 to 8. In a closely contested game the U15 youth held their nerve to win 10 to 6 in . The U18 Academy squad experienced touring in Australia. Whilst the performance on the field was disappointing, with two defeats to High Schools, the players gained an opportunity to perform at international level in a tour environment. The World Cup provided a mixture of fortunes. The England Wheelchair squad were successful with a fantastic unbeaten performance over the tournament to secure the World Cup, with exceptional coaching by Phil Roberts. The England Women’s team under the guidance of Brenda Dobek delivered a great performance finishing in 3rd place. Over 2000 players from across 21 Service Areas gained access to quality coaching and development programmes through Service Area, Regional and National camps. Players were introduced to all the key facets of preparation for elite competition including nutrition, fitness advice, how to prepare mentally, analyse their performance and improve through access to the best coaches from the community and professional game.

27 28 MATCH OFFICIALS

2008 saw full time Match Officials operating for a second The department also benefitted from the assistance of England season in the engage Super League. As well as the six current Coach, Tony Smith, who offered a different dimension to that of full time officials, three part time officials have been recruited to the usual rugby law enforcers. His input while reviewing referee at Super League level, helping everyone gain valuable sessions helped shape many of the interpretations as the experience for the future. season progressed. The average number of penalties per game over the whole season was just over 16, a dramatic drop on the Thierry Alibert from the French Federation spent the year with previous 21 after round 8. us, predominantly refereeing in the Co-operative National League, but also rising to referee in the engage Super League We were extremely proud when three English officials were by the end of the season. Following this experience, Thierry was selected to the Match Officials Panel at the Rugby League offered a full time position for the rest of the season. World Cup 2008. and were selected as referees and was selected as touch judge. All As many as 14 different referees were used in the Co-operative performed extremely well in the group games with Ashley Klein National Leagues last season. With most of the referee squad and James Child being selected for the semi finals. Both Ashley also touch judging in the engage Super League. This helped the and James were appointed to the World Cup Final as referee and league apply more consistent application of the law and touch judge respectively while Steve Ganson was appointed as interpretation across all of our major competitions. We are video referee for the final. Having three English officials pleased to report that 75% of our engage Super League Touch appointed to the World Cup Final was a great honour and an Judge squad are Co-operative National League referees. This has indication of how our officials have grown in stature, and are aided the performance of referees in the Super League but also viewed within the world game. provided valuable experience for the National League Referees, which has lifted the standard of the game even further in the Co-operative National League.

29 MARKETING AND COMMERCIAL

The challenging economic climate forced a change to the UK’s The BBC’s endorsement of the sport continued to be important commercial landscape during 2008. Despite this Rugby League with as many viewers watching the nine live Carnegie Challenge posted a successful year with income remaining resilient. Cup matches as watched Super League throughout the season. However, as the year drew to a close it was obvious that trading As well as the live matches ‘The ’ on BBC conditions were about to get much tougher. was broadcast 30 times. With as much as 20% of all sponsorship deals historically coming 2008 heralded a new era as Great Britain split into the home from the financial services category, financial pressures within nations to help develop International Rugby League. The move this sector were bound to have a knock-on effect in all sports. followed a long consultation process with key stakeholders Rugby League found that continuing to deliver value for money including players, coaches, media and fans. A new England brand was the best defence in maintaining both spectator numbers, and was created and launched in the historical surroundings of Bolton primary and secondary forms of income. Castle, North Yorkshire. A new logo and strip were presented along Our strategy for attracting category partners beneath title with a new empowering positioning statement of ‘For Team And sponsors continued to generate commercial income for the sport Country’. A range of collateral was created to explain the reasons across all the televised competitions. for the transition and outline the future international calendar. Super League title sponsor engage Mutual Assurance extended After a mid-season launch of England and victory over France, the its agreement for a further three years whilst Northern Rail also team played the final UK based game of 2008 at Doncaster’s committed to a new three year agreement for their sponsorship Keepmoat Stadium as England took on Wales. A crowd of 11,000 of the Northern Rail Cup. bolstered by a ticket promotion with The Sun newspaper for ‘Help For Heroes’ campaign watched the match. The flagship engage Super League competition continued to grow with 135 hours of live match coverage, a total of 64 As all eyes turned to Australia for the 2008 Rugby League World matches, broadcast by Sky Sports to a cumulative audience of Cup, the competition beamed coverage to 125 countries over 10m viewers. worldwide. As the UK’s broadcast partner for the tournament, Sky played a key role in promoting this highly successful tournament. In May Super League returned to Cardiff’s for the second Magic Weekend. The 63,000 attendance, an increase During the World Cup Leeds Rhinos’ continued his of 7% on 2007, was generated through an integrated weekly slot on BBC Radio Five’s mid-morning Saturday show communications campaign across all clubs and an eight page following a successful stint during the Summer where in the role special in The People newspaper. Following fan feedback from of ‘Culture Vulture’ he had reviewed everything from the latest 2007 a targeted micro-site was created to make attending the film releases to chart CDs and restaurants. event easier for fans. Once inside the stadium, live music and the The RFL revisited its CRM system in 2008 and following a tender inaugural Mascot Games added to the spectacular on-pitch action. process installed a new system designed specifically for the During Autumn, the engage delivered sports sector. The system links directly to the RFL ticketing a peak audience of over 500,000 viewers. Engage Super League system and enables cost effective, direct communication with generated a 20% higher average audience than the Guinness Rugby League fans on our database. Key campaigns were Premiership, with greater interest generated amongst viewers instigated throughout 2008 including the Carnegie Challenge aged between 16 and 54. Cup Final, The Grand Final and also the launch of the new England shirt and generated in excess of £100k of ticket revenue. In the Attendances at Super League matches also grew with an average future the system will be used to segment the database and help over 10,000 people watching each match. with personal communication. The Co-operative National League One offered 19 live matches on Our online presence becomes increasingly important to the RFL, as Sky Sports, while National League Two saw three matches a customer friendly way of talking to our customer base directly broadcast live. There were also four live Northern Rail Cup matches and cost effectively. To make sure that this important social shown. In total there were over 50 hours of televised coverage. channel continues to engage with our fans the Super League Once the season drew to a close work started to website was redeveloped and re-launched with the application of re-brand the National Leagues as The Co-operative . Web 2.0. Already the site has seen traffic increase by 10%.

30 31 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2008

32 The financial information set out in the following pages does not constitute the Company’s consolidated statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2008 butis derived from those accounts. Statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2008 will be delivered to Companies House following the Company’s Annual General Meeting. The auditors have reported on those accounts; their reports were unqualified and did not contain statements under section 237(2) or (3) of the Companies Act 1985.

33 FINANCIAL REVIEW

Turnover in the year has increased to £14,541k from The balance sheet at 31 December 2008 is the strongest £13,439k in 2007, an 8.2% increase, which is commendable the RFL has ever had and a fair reflection of the recovery especially given the absence of any home international work done since the organisation’s net liabilities peaked at rugby league during 2008. This increase in turnover is £1,976k at 31 December 2001 The net profit delivered in mainly due to increased Government funding income to fund 2008 has increased the accumulated fund to a net surplus Club and Coach Development Officers, increases in coaching of £840k (2007: £664k). courses income, and minor increases in broadcast and In addition the company is obligated under Financial sponsorship income streams. However, countering these Reporting Standard 15 to revalue its assets. In 2006 a increases, match income is at a lower level in 2008 compared formal review was carried out by an external valuer and the with 2007. Specifically match income at £3,731k is lower than RFL’s bank of playing fields, together with its interest in the in 2007 (£4,202k), and Government funding income at £5,348k leasehold property at Red Hall, increased in value by £759k. is also significantly higher than in 2007 (£4,218k). In 2008 no external review was carried out as the RFL Sponsorship revenues at £1,306k are higher than in 2007 Board do not consider that there has been a material change (£1,241k). This increase is mainly due to increasing the in value. Therefore the revaluation reserves now stand at a amount of partnership packages, specifically with the balance of £1,236k The RFL Board is committed to further signing of Gillette as an RFL partner, in addition to their consolidation of the organisation’s balance sheet to protect England Team sponsorship. the RFL from potential future adverse trading conditions. However the Board is also seeking to achieve year on year A full analysis of the organisation’s turnover is contained increases in payments to or on behalf of the game. under Note 2 to the Accounts where the RFL’s revenue is subdivided into the major income streams. Cost of Sales at £6,730k have risen from the 2007 level of £6,590k (a 2% increase), once again as a consequence of achieving the increased turnover. Payments to or on behalf of clubs contained within Cost of Sales have risen from £2,137k to £2,569k, and is discussed in more detail below. Cost of Sales in total now represents 63.9% of turnover, a slight decrease on the 64.9% in 2007. Payments made either to or on behalf of clubs or other member organisations has increased to £2,386k (2007: £2,054k), however total investment within the game rose to £4,955k, up from £4,190k in 2006, a 18.3% increase year on year. A full analysis of all payments made either to or on behalf of other member organisations is contained in Note 4 but in summary, saw increases in the direct payments to clubs and cost of match officials, and decreases in disciplinary costs and banned substance testing; insurances; and awards to other sections of the game. In addition, prize monies event profit distributions and monies paid out in line with Government funding increased year on year. As in 2007 the RFL will make a year-end payment to members to reflect participation in the Challenge Cup, in 2008 this is at a level of £150k as in 2007.

34 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

INCOME (£’000) SPLIT OF INCOME - 2008 (£’000)

1229 15,000

3731 12,500

10,000

Match Income 7,500 5348 Broadcast 5,000 Sponsorship

2,500 2927 Government Funding

Other 0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 1306

PAYMENTS TO OR ON BEHALF OF CLUBS AND OTHER MEMBER ORGANISATIONS (£'000)

5,000

4,000

Awards to clubs 3,000 Awards to other sections of the game

Match officials 2,000 Insurance

Disciplinary costs and banned substances testing 1,000 Match related costs

Grant funded activities 0 2007 2008

NET RFL VALUE (£’000) CASH BALANCES (£’000)

2,500 5,000

2,000 4,000

1,500 3,000

1,000 2,000

500 1,000

0 0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

35 CONSOLIDATED PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT for the year ended 31 December 2008

Note 2008 2007 ££££

Turnover 1,2 14,540,600 13,439,345

Cost of sales 3 (6,729,519) (6,589,663)

Cost of sales – payable to or on behalf of clubs 4 (2,568,808) (2,136,577)

Total cost of sales (9,298,327) (8,726,240)

Gross profit 5,242,273 4,713,105

Payments to or on behalf of clubs and other member organisations 4 (2,386,493) (2,053,667)

Operating costs (2,949,419) (2,670,313)

Administrative costs (5,335,912) (4,723,980)

Operating loss (93,639) (10,875)

Other interest receivable and similar income 7 226,203 207,107

Profit on ordinary activities before taxation 6 132,564 196,232

Tax on profit on ordinary activities 8 (67,888) (69,229)

Profit for the financial year 16 64,676 127,003

All the above results are derived from continuing operations.

36 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET at 31 December 2008

Note 2008 2007 ££££

Fixed assets

Tangible assets 9 1,865,738 1,936,643

Investments 11 120,000 –

1,985,738 1,936,643

Current assets

Debtors 12 4,391,863 2,883,814

Cash at bank and in hand 4,087,808 3,277,419

8,479,671 6,161,233

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 13 (8,457,079) (6,154,223)

Net current assets 22,592 7,010

Total assets plus net current assets 2,008,330 1,943,654

Net assets 2,008,330 1,943,654

Capital and Reserves

Accumulated surplus 16 771,731 654,544

Revaluation reserve 16 1,236,599 1,289,110

Shareholders’ funds 2,008,330 1,943,654

37 CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT for the year ended 31 December 2008

Note 2008 2007 £ £ Reconciliation of operating loss to net cash flow from operating activities Operating loss (93,639) (10,875) Depreciation charges 225,856 198,527 Increase in debtors (1,519,770) (1,272,142) Increase in creditors 2,300,815 174,643

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities 913,262 (909,847)

Cash flow statement Cash flow from operating activities 913,262 (909,847) Returns on investments and servicing of finance 17 226,203 207,107 Taxation (54,125) – Capital expenditure and financial investment 17 (274,951) (173,448)

Cash inflow/(outflow) before management of liquid resources and financing 810,389 (876,188)

Management of liquid resources 17 – 4,500,000

Increase in cash in the period 810,389 3,623,812

Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net funds Increase in cash in the period 810,389 3,623,812 Money (returned from)/placed on short term deposits 17 – (4,500,000)

Movement in net funds in the period 810,389 (876,188) Net funds at the start of the period 3,277,419 4,153,607

Net funds at the end of the period 18 4,087,808 3,277,419

38 RECONCILIATION OF MOVEMENTS IN MEMBERS’ FUNDS for the year ended 31 December 2008

2008 2007 £ £ Profit/(loss) for the financial year 64,676 127,003

Net addition/reduction to members’ funds 64,676 127,003 Opening members’ funds 1,943,654 1,816,651

Closing members’ funds 2,008,330 1,943,654

NOTE OF HISTORICAL COST PROFITS AND LOSSES for the year ended 31 December 2008

2008 2007 £ £ Reported profit on ordinary activities before taxation 132,564 196,232 Difference between a historical cost depreciation charge and the actual depreciation charge calculated on the revalued amount 52,511 52,511

Historical cost profit on ordinary activities before taxation 185,075 248,743

Historical cost profit for the year retained after taxation 117,187 179,514

39 NOTES (forming part of the financial statements)

1. Accounting policies Stocks The following accounting policies have been applied Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. consistently in dealing with items which are considered Taxation material in relation to the organisation’s financial Deferred tax is recognised, without discounting, in respect statements except as noted below. of all timing differences between the treatment of certain Basis of preparation items for taxation and accounting purposes which have The financial statements have been prepared in accordance arisen but not reversed by the balance sheet date, except with applicable accounting standards, and under the as otherwise required by FRS 19. historical cost accounting rules, modified to include the Turnover revaluation of land and buildings. Income comprises the value of sales, excluding VAT, of Under section 230(4) of the Companies Act 1985 the goods and services in the normal course of business, company is exempt from the requirement to present its own sponsorship monies, grant monies and revenue derived profit and loss account. The loss for the financial period was from television broadcasting contracts. Income includes £69,867 (2007: £930,134 profit). amounts generated as principal and excludes transactions Basis of consolidation conducted as agent of the Clubs. Income is recognised in The consolidated financial statements include the financial the period to which it relates and payments to clubs are statements of the Company and its subsidiary undertakings recorded as ‘payable to clubs’ in the period in which the made up to 31 December 2008. The acquisition method of related income is recognised. Government grants are taken accounting has been adopted. Under this method, the results to income in order to match them against the related costs. of subsidiary undertakings acquired or disposed of in the Where amounts have not yet been spent, grant monies year are included in the consolidated profit and loss account received are shown as deferred income. from the date of acquisition or up to the date of disposal. Cash Fixed assets and depreciation Cash, for the purpose of the cash flow statement, Depreciation is provided to write off the cost or valuation comprises cash in hand and deposits repayable on demand, less the estimated residual value of tangible fixed assets less overdrafts payable on demand. by equal instalments over their estimated useful economic lives as follows:

Leasehold properties 4% Fixtures & fittings 12.5% Office equipment 25% Computer equipment 25% Motor vehicles 25%

The organisation has adopted a policy of revaluing its land and buildings, as permitted under FRS 15, Tangible Fixed Assets. Post-retirement benefits The organisation operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the organisation in an independently administered fund. The amount charged to the profit and loss account represents the contributions payable to the scheme in respect of the accounting period.

40 NOTES continued

2. Turnover 2008 2007 £ £ Match income 3,731,139 4,201,948 Broadcast 2,926,904 2,833,192 Sponsorship 1,306,357 1,241,290 Government funding 5,347,511 4,218,018 Other 1,228,689 944,897

14,540,600 13,439,345

3. Cost of Sales 2008 2007 £ £ Match costs 1,930,557 2,794,006 Grant funded activities 3,889,369 3,058,134 Sponsorship and promotional costs 364,593 307,523 Other 545,000 430,000

6,729,519 6,589,663

4. Payments to or on behalf of clubs and other member organisations 2008 2007 £ £ Awards to clubs 797,815 367,360 Awards to other sections of the game 234,779 241,396 Match officials 679,007 629,758 Insurance 565,297 699,968 Disciplinary costs and banned substances testing 109,595 115,185

2,386,493 2,053,667

In addition to the amounts above, further amounts were paid to or on behalf of clubs relating to events or government funding. These amounts are contained within Cost of Sales – payable to or on behalf of clubs and are as follows: 2008 2007 £ £ Match costs 1,693,753 1,409,486 Grant funded activities 875,055 727,091

2,568,808 2,136,577

Total payments made to or behalf of clubs and 4,955,301 4,190,244 other member organisations

41 NOTES continued

5. Directors and employees 2008 2007 Staff costs (including directors): £ £ Wages and salaries 4,257,471 3,606,171 Social security costs 386,668 327,602 Other pension costs 91,019 98,144

4,735,158 4,031,917

Average number of employees (including directors): 2008 2007 Number Number On field staff 24 27 Administration staff 127 104

151 131

The aggregate emoluments of the 2008 2007 directors amounted to:00 £ £ Remuneration 354,217 315,637 Contributions to money purchase pension schemes 22,137 29,688

376,354 345,325

The higher paid director received £175,171 (2007: £161,127) remuneration, and contributions to money purchase pension schemes of £9,179 (2007: £7,291).

The number of directors to whom retirement 2008 2007 benefits are accruing are: Number Number Under money purchase pension schemes 2 2

42 NOTES continued

6. Profit on ordinary activities before taxation 2008 2007 Profit on ordinary activities before taxation £ £ is stated after charging:

Auditors’ remuneration: Audit of financial statements 15,000 15,000 Other services - fees paid to the auditor and its associates for tax compliance and advisory services 5,000 10,000 Other services - fees paid to the auditor and its associates for review of grant claims – 3,500 Depreciation and other amounts written off tangible fixed assets: Owned 155,989 128,661 Leased 69,867 69,866

Hire of other assets - operating leases 12,831 20,093

7. Other interest receivable and similar income 2008 2007 £ £ Bank interest 226,203 207,107

43 NOTES continued

8. Taxation2008 2008 2007 Analysis of credit in period ££££

UK corporation tax Current tax on income for the period 62,572 54,125 Adjustments in respect of prior periods (6,405) –

Total current tax 56,167 54,125

Deferred tax Origination/reversal of timing differences 11,394 35,493 Effect of increased tax rate – 946 Adjustments in respect of prior periods 327 (21,335)

11,721 15,104

Tax on profit on ordinary activities 67,888 69,229

Factors affecting the tax charge for the current period The current tax charge for the period is higher (2007: lower) than the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK 28%, (2007: 30%). The differences are explained below. 2008 2007 Current tax reconciliation £ £ Profit on ordinary activities before tax 132,564 196,232

Current tax at 28% (2007: 30%) 37,118 58,870

Effects of: Expenses not deductible for tax purposes 45,206 38,291 Capital allowances for period in excess of depreciation 3,996 (8,041) Utilisation of brought forward tax losses (12,590) (27,452) Short term timing difference (2,800) – UK Tax not at standard rate (8,358) (7,543) Adjustment to tax charge in respect of prior periods (6,405) –

Total current tax charge (see above) 56,167 54,125

44 NOTES continued

9. Tangible fixed assets Equipment Leasehold Freehold fixtures & properties land fittings Total £££ £ Cost or valuation At beginning of year 950,000 657,500 1,584,625 3,192,125 Additions – – 154,951 154,951

At end of year 950,000 657,500 1,739,576 3,347,076

Depreciation At beginning of year 69,866 – 1,185,616 1,255,482 Charge for year 69,867 – 155,989 225,856

At end of year 139,733 – 1,341,605 1,481,338

Net book value At 31 December 2008 810,267 657,500 397,971 1,865,738

At 31 December 2007 880,134 657,500 399,009 1,936,643

The following information relates to assets carried at revalued amounts.

2008 Land and buildings £ At 2006 open market value 1,607,500 Aggregate depreciation thereon (139,733)

Net book value 1,467,767

2008 2007 £ £ Historical cost of revalued assets 469,367 469,367 Aggregate depreciation based on historical cost (238,200) (220,844)

Historical cost net book value 231,167 248,523

The revaluations are based on open market value, and were performed by Donaldson’s, Chartered Surveyors, on 31 December 2006. Other tangible fixed assets are included at cost.

45 NOTES continued

10. Fixed asset investments The undertakings in which the group’s interest at the year end is more than 20% are as follows:

Country of Principal Percentage of incorporation activity ordinary shares held Group Company Subsidiary undertakings The League Limited UK Sports promotion – 100% ZZ Merchandising Limited (formerly Rugby League Enterprises) UK Sports promotion – 97% Rugby League Tri-Tournaments Limited UK Sports promotion 100% – RLIP Limited UK Holding intellectual property 100% –

11. Loans Loans £ Cost At beginning of year – Additions 120,000

At end of year 120,000

Provisions At beginning and end of year –

Net book value At 31 December 2008 120,000

At 31 December 2007 –

During the year RFL Limited made a to Denehurst Park (Rochdale) Limited £120,000. This loan had not been repaid at the year end, but is secured on assets held by Denehurst Park (Rochdale) Limited.

46 NOTES continued

12. Debtors 2008 2007 £ £ Trade debtors 3,300,796 1,266,919 Other debtors 7,280 45,631 Intercompany debtors – – Deferred tax (see note 14) 1,519 13,240 Prepayments and accrued income 1,056,647 1,532,403 Loans to clubs 25,621 25,621

4,391,863 2,883,814

13. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2008 2007 £ £ Trade creditors 684,374 1,087,893 Taxation and social security 586,631 330,898 Other creditors 2,511 66,642 Intercompany creditors – – Accruals and deferred income 7,127,396 4,614,665 Corporation tax 56,167 54,125

8,457,079 6,154,223

14. Provisions for liabilities and charges Deferred tax asset £ At beginning of year 13,240 Recognised during year (11,721)

At end of year 1,519

The elements of deferred tax are as follows: 2008 2007 Difference between accumulated depreciation £ £ and capital allowances (1,519) 6,408 Tax losses – (19,648)

Deferred tax (asset) (see note 12) (1,519) (13,240)

47 NOTES continued

15. Pension scheme The organisation operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The pension cost charge for the period represents contributions payable by the organisation to the scheme and amounted to £91,019 (2007: £89,712). There were no outstanding or prepaid contributions at either the beginning or end of the financial year.

16. Reserves Revaluation Accumulated reserve surplus £ £ At beginning of year 1,289,110 654,544 Profit for the financial year – 64,676 Depreciation on revalued assets (52,511) 52,511

At end of year 1,236,599 771,731

17. Analysis of cash flows 2008 2007 ££££ Returns on investment and servicing of finance Interest received 226,203 207,107

226,203 207,107 Capital expenditure and financial investment Purchase of tangible fixed assets (154,951) (173,448) Investment (120,000) –

(274,951) (173,448) Management of liquid resources Cash returned from/(placed on) deposit – 4,500,000

– 4,500,000

48 NOTES continued

18. Analysis of net funds At beginning of year Cash flow At end of year ££ £ Cash in hand, at bank 3,277,419 810,389 4,087,808

Total 3,277,419 810,389 4,087,808

19. Related party transactions In 2006 the Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of the RFL became the two operational directors of Super League (Europe) Limited (SLE). By virtue of these shared directorships, the two companies are now related parties. The RFL receives income from ticket sales and sponsorship and incurs costs relating to SLE – these are all passed on to SLE. Similarly SLE receives some income and incurs some costs on behalf of the RFL – these are passed on to the RFL. Included within other operating costs is the management charge made from the RFL to SLE of £450,000 (2007: £360,000). At 31 December 2008 within trade debtors £nil (2007: £695) is owed to the RFL by SLE. At 31 December 2008 within prepayments £126,868 (2007: £484,709) is owed to the RFL by SLE. At 31 December 2008 within trade creditors £nil (2007: £14,688) is owed by the RFL to SLE. At 31 December 2008 within accruals and deferred income £131,657 (2007: £401,110) is owed by the RFL to SLE. All balances are non-interest bearing.

20. Company limited by guarantees The company is limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital. The liability of the members in the event of the company being liquidated is limited to £1 per member.

49 RFL Red Hall, Red Hall Lane, Leeds, LS17 8NB T 0844 477 7113 F 0844 477 0013 www.rfl.uk.com RUGBY LEAGUE IT’S A WHOLE DIFFERENT BALLGAME R