NINETEEN BID FOR SUPER LEAGUE
Nineteen clubs have submitted applications for a new Super League licence in 2009, according to the RFL.
Clubs had until 5pm on Monday to put forward their credentials to be awarded a licence to compete in Super League from 2009 as the Rugby Football League looks to expand the sport.
As of this season, Super League abandoned the previous system of automatic promotion and relegation between the full-time Super League competition and the largely semi-professional National Leagues, citing a number of factors which made it difficult for the promoted clubs to compete, as well as the numerous off-field implications for the relegated clubs.
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Under the new system, Super League licences will be granted to either twelve or fourteen clubs, depending on the strength of their application, for a period of three years. Clubs would then have to reapply for a licence every three years.
Whilst the nineteen applicants have yet to be confirmed, it is believed that the current twelve Super League clubs along with Widnes Vikings, Leigh Centurions, Salford City Reds and Bridgend-based Celtic Crusaders of the National League have all applied. In addition, French League side Toulouse Olympique have put forward their credentials to become Super League's second club from across the Channel. Halifax and Featherstone have also reportedly made a bid, although their applications are thought to be with a view to a licence in 2012, rather than 2009.
Clubs will be graded on a number of areas, including playing strength, youth development, financial stability and stadium facilities, whilst geographic factors are also a consideration. Clubs will then be awarded an A, B or C, standard licence with A and B guaranteeing Super League status whilst C standard clubs may lose out.
The franchising system has been received with mixed feelings from clubs and supporters. Those in favour of the scheme point to an overall improvement in on and off-field standards, a greater focus on long-term planning and youth development due to the removal of the risk of relegation and greater financial stability for clubs.
Opponents however believe that removing automatic promotion and relegation will remove much of the incentive for lower league clubs, as well as taking away much of the excitement towards to end of the season.
The applications will be individually reviewed before the successful applicants are announced in July.
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