Dave Craven: Funding cut must not interfere with vital recruitment drive

But given the current zeitgeist is one largely based on computer games, television and many other such ‘passions’ which can lead to the worrying levels of obesity we are seeing, the game has plenty of competition before we even mention other rival sports.

It is crucial it attracts new players to continue growing the game so news that the RFL has seen its funding for such matters reduced by almost £1m over the next two years is obviously concerning despite its inevitably.

Sport England was always going to scale back – they have also reduced the funding available to the England Golf Partnership by just over £100,000 – in light of the government’s economic cutbacks but the key is to ensure it does not slow the progress already made.

It represents only a 3.35 per cent cut but the fear will be more will follow.

Rugby league has seen a decent rise in participation levels according to the number of registered players the RFL has on its books.

In terms of adults and secondary schoolchildren registered to play in the game in England last year, that rose by 55,000, an impressive return.

The RFL is making all the right noises about how the cutback will not dim their plans and it is hoped their own commitment – led by David Gent, the director of participation and strategic partnerships – will remain steadfast.

However, undoubtedly, there will now be more pressure on the outcome of their decision to switch the community game to summer in line with their professional counterparts.

It has been a contentious issue and many clubs and leagues have been in opposition, refusing to yield.

It will start to happen, though, from next year and the radical plans need to be successful.

In theory, it could be the revolutionary moment the sport requires to really capture the public’s imagination.

Improved playing conditions is the hook with which the governing body believes will encourage newcomers.

It will certainly tackle one of the main issues which dissuades some people from wanting to try rugby league.

Over the next two years, the RFL’s bid to further increase both the number of participants and frequency of participation will centre on a ‘product-orientated model’ which responds to the needs of customers.

As well as the switch to summer. they will also look at the provision of improved facilities and the promotion of awareness of all forms of the sport, including 13-a-side, touch and tag.

They insist they can get more people playing and also playing more often and for longer periods.

The work needs to be ongoing and it needs to continue no matter what.

With the RFL close to announcing details about a new television deal with Sky that will secure £90m over the next five years, the professional arm of the sport can look forward to good health when many thought this income would be severely reduced.

“We are going through a challenging and very exciting process of radical change which is designed to ensure we deliver sustained growth in all forms of the sport,” said Gent.

“Our commitment to delivering increased participation levels remains undiminished, as does Sport England’s support for what we are trying to achieve.

“Sport England recognise that our customer-led approach is bold.”

Bold it certainly is. Let us hope it is successful, too.

If ever rugby league wants to increase its appeal, now is certainly the time.