Rugby League reaffirmed its commitment to support young men in society at a meeting with Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, in London earlier this week.
And the RFL has also welcomed this week’s announcements from DCMS and the Prime Minister’s office regarding significant investment in schools and grassroots sport.
Tony Sutton, the Chief Executive of the Rugby Football League, was joined by Chris Rostron, who holds the same role at Rugby League Cares, and the Wigan Warriors CEO Kris Radlinski MBE as well as senior representatives from other sports in a wide-ranging discussion.
Tony Sutton said:
“Given the specific circumstances of our sport and the communities where it is most strongly established, Rugby League is aware of the positive impact it can make on young men in terms of their mental and physical health, and their sense of purpose in a changing society.
“The RFL were therefore delighted to attend this week’s meeting with the Secretary of State, and to be joined by Chris Rostron from RL Cares and Kris Radlinski from the Wigan club – both individuals and organisations who have a deep commitment in this area.
“We also welcome the announcements in the last 24 hours from DCMS and the Prime Minister’s Office regarding their ongoing commitment to and investment in schools and grassroots sport.
“The 2025 RFL Champion Schools competitions, including the traditional Wembley Final for the Year Seven boys, have again shown the level of interest and enthusiasm for Rugby League in schools across England and Wales.
“And having published our National Facilities Strategy last May, which highlighted the additional positive impact that community clubs and the Foundations of the professional clubs could make with further investment in their facilities, we look forward to further discussions with Government following the pledge to invest at least £400m in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities that promote health, wellbeing and community .”
Further details of the RFL’s National Facilities Strategy, and links to Government releases, below:
