Quote: Derwent "You must take into account that a fair chunk of this record revenue was unearned income in the form of part of the grant from Sport England. Following on from that, the record distribution of monies was the onward distribution of those Sport England grants (none of which go to pro or semi-pro clubs).'"
1) this is absolutely not unearned income. Arguably the RFL works hardest, with the greatest resource, to secure this funding. It is granted on the basis of the increase in participation promised to Sport England. This is monitored and recorded quarterly. This is perhaps the hardest earned and most accountable income the RFL has
2) this money is ALL for grassroots development and for the creation of pathways from junior rugby into the elite game. It benefits pro clubs partly by running the local, regional and national elite development centres, and in providing the majority of funding for the community coaches (many of whom are employed by pro clubs, using RFL-distributed Sport England money.
3) the money is also being used to grow the sport. For example, there are over 750 kids in the south west who have played rugby league at school this year. This is really important for the long term development of the game. It increases the talent pool, giving us a shot at competing with the ozzies at the top level. It increases the fanbase, bringing in money through turnstiles over the long term. It increases the overall spectator base, making us more attractive to sponsors and to broadcasters.
RFL's Development Department is one of its crowning glories, and the money it brings in and then spends in expanding the game is a stand-out achievement. Per-player, we are the best funded sport in England, and should be really proud of that.
