3:02pm Wednesday 23rd July 2008
WARRINGTON Wolves were one of just three clubs to be awarded A grade Super League licences this week.
The RFL categorised clubs into A, B and C when they handed out the Super League franchises, which went to the 12 existing top flight clubs plus Salford and Celtic Crusaders.
Categories were based on various aspects including facilities, playing performance and youth development and Wolves were joined by Leeds and Hull in the A category.
League leaders St Helens and traditional big boys Bradford and Wigan only received B grades.
Richard Lewis, the RFL’s executive chairman, said: “The three clubs that received ‘A’ grade licences deserve special commendation as they are impressive both on and off the field. Of course we hope these clubs maintain these high standards over the licence period.
“The goal for the other 11 teams is to look at the detailed feedback they have received this morning from the RFL on their licence application and work out what they need to do to achieve an ‘A’ grade next time round. The hard work for many starts here.
“For clubs who have ambitions for new stadiums, they need to ensure by 2010 when the next licence application process starts, that they are more than just plans.
“The clubs that have missed out this time round will be even more determined to win a licence in the future.”
A grades: Hull, Leeds, Warrington.
B grades: Bradford, St Helens, Wigan.
C grades: Catalans, Castleford, Celtic Crusaders, Harlequins, Huddersfield, Hull KR, Salford, Wakefield.