The National Conference League chair has expressed his sympathy towards Cumbrian clubs involved in the current community game’s dispute with the RFL.
Changes to the structure of the game at NCL level and below is causing ill-feeling, particularly over the perceived unseemly rush to change by the 2026 season due to start in three months.
Chairman Mike Denning said: “The very future of some long-established clubs with a great history in the game is being put on the line, particularly in Cumbria.
“Some in Barrow, Whitehaven and Workington feel like they are being thrown under the bus as the RFL drives relentlessly on with their plans, despite numerous objections to the speed and manner in which they are being forced on community clubs.
“It was only at the community board meeting in September this year that a majority of its members voted to accept the drive for an NCRL to be carried out through considerable communication and stakeholder engagement.
“This was to include a communication plan and presentations to leagues, clubs, coaches, volunteers and parents to explain the proposed changes, gathering information to ensure a smooth transition.
“But all that has gone by the wayside and here we are in December with clubs, volunteers up in arms and ambitions shot to pieces.”
Denning also confirmed that clubs are still considering whether they wish to proceed with legal action or not.
Rugby League Express, the sport’s trade paper has been speaking to the Barrow clubs and hearing of their frustrations about the proposed changes, particularly those affiliated before to the North West Men’s League.
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