Archive | October 2020
October 30, 2020  

Mixed picture for rugby league return in Eastern Europe

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

FROM: RLEF MEDIA DEPARTMENT

DATE: 30 October, 2020

CONTACT: phil.caplan / +44 7850719412

MIXED PICTURE FOR RUGBY LEAGUE RETURN IN EASTERN EUROPE

Whilst there has been some notable activity in Eastern Europe – not least in Ukraine, Serbia and this weekend scheduled for Albania – greater coronavirus concerns has seen competition postponed in the Czech Republic and delayed in the USSR.

The Ukraine RL Federation held a highly successful Grand Finals day behind closed doors in Lviv, which saw Legion XIII travel 1,000km to retain their title. The defending champions were pushed all the way by Lviv Tigers, running out 46-20 winners after trailing at the break.

In the match for third place in the six-team division, Kyiv Rhinos beat Wests Giants 62-4. New sides Terripol Knights finished fifth after the regular season matches and Mykolaiv Korabel sixth.

In Serbia, former national head coach John Risman returned to Belgrade to be made honorary president of the SRLF. He also presented the Victory Cup and medals, with Partisan 1953 winning a four team 9s tournament. Originally played for between 1954 and ’64 – and won by Partizan in the first two of those foundation years, and again in 1961 – the trophy has been resurrected to be competed for annually.

Initial plans were to play the tournament on 9 May, to commemorate the end of the Second World War, but Covid-19 meant delaying it to 20 October, the date of the liberation of Belgrade.

Vladan Kikanovic, Serbian Rugby League Federation general secretary commented: “This was great day for Serbian RL, with support of Belgrade Rugby League we made history again. We are all proud and especially that we named John Risman as honorary president of Serbian RL. John left a great legacy and we all respect him a lot.”

From next season, plans are for the Victory Cup to move back to its original date and the Belgrade Liberation Cup instituted to also be played for annually, in October, as a 9s competition.

This weekend, the first game in 2020 in Albania will be played, a 9s encounter between KR Regbise Tirana and KR Iliret, at Tirana United. Arnaldo Telo, president of the Albanian Rugby League Association noted: “I would like to give special credit to our sponsors and partners who are supporting this match. It gives us further confidence that we will have the support needed for our plans for Tirana to join the Greek domestic competition in 2021.”

The Russian Cup was due to commence this weekend but has been put on hold. A statement issued by the Association of Russian Clubs confirmed, ‘Unfortunately due to the rising levels of Covid-19 cases across Russia, the ARLC board have taken the unfortunate yet necessary measure to cancel The Cup of Russia involving 16 clubs across the country.

‘The current trend of daily increases in confirmed Covid-19 cases and government requirements to fight the spread of the virus have made it impossible for the competition to go ahead. The ARLC will continue to react to the ever changing situation across the regions of Russia and are hopeful that some friendly fixtures will be held between clubs prior to the New Year once the situation improves and restrictions are lifted.’

PHIL CAPLAN

RLEF MEDIA OFFICER

Tel: 07850 719412

E-mail: phil.caplan

Web: http://www.rlef.eu.com

RLEF

The Rugby League European Federation

55 King Street,

Manchester M2 4LQ

This e-mail (including any attachments) is intended only for the recipient(s) named above. It may contain confidential or privileged information and should not be read, copied or otherwise used without prior written consent. Statements or opinions may be expressed in this e-mail that are personal to the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the RLEF.

The RLEF is not bound by any contract or obligation created by this e-mail and excludes all liability to you or any third party in respect of its contents (to the maximum extent permitted by the law).

It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that opening this message and/or any of its attachments will not adversely affect its systems. No responsibility is accepted by the RLEF. If you are not the named recipient, please contact the sender and delete the e-mail from your system.

We look forward to 2021 and the chance to have the greatest game of all played in Russia again. There is much to look forward to and work towards. In the meantime, we wish good health to the Rugby league Family and beyond.

October 27, 2020  

Ghana Rugby League Association recommended for affiliate membership

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

FROM: RLEF MEDIA DEPARTMENT

DATE: 27 October, 2020

CONTACT: phil.caplan / +44 7850719412

GHANA RUGBY LEAGUE ASSOCIATION RECOMMENDED FOR AFFILIATE MEMBERSHIP

The Rugby League European Federation (RLEF) board has recommended Ghana to be upgraded from Observer to Affiliate member status to the International Rugby League (IRL) board and its members. If accepted, as expected, Ghana would become only the third African nation – following Nigeria recently and South Africa – to be bestowed such status.

RLEF board member Mahdi Choudhury commented: “We are extremely pleased to recommend Ghana’s affiliate membership application, they have shown significant growth since 2018. Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) has increased domestic and international competition, coaching and match official development programmes, and vital community initiatives. Their acceptance would further strengthen the establishment of a proposed Middle East Africa Confederation.”

RLFG, particularly active in their university sector, has begun a return to on-field activity recently after the easing of some Covid-19 restrictions in the country. Clubs were given two options; to train from October to November and play in a friendly event in December, or train for rest of the year and start in full in 2021. They opted for the former and have set a programme for both male and female players to restart.

RLFG has also been setting a lead with health programmes in the country. Last weekend the women’s section, in collaboration with Decathlon Ghana, took part in a breast cancer awareness programme dubbed ‘Women in Sports’ organized in association with Pink October.

“Breast Cancer is a serious problem that most people take for granted,” said Rachel Ankomah, RLFG women’s rugby league co-ordinator. “This is our own way of giving back to the community: allowing them an opportunity to get checked and also be educated on breast cancer.” Activities included yoga, a health walk, breast talk, a women in sports show, aerobics, health screening and a game of touch rugby.

That follows on from RLFG being part of an exercise supporting the National Blood Service and promoting health, fitness and general wellbeing. “You don’t need to have a medical degree to save a life just a fair degree of humanity, and that is what we in rugby league stand for,” noted Daniel Oko Djanie, RLFG head of marketing.

PHIL CAPLAN

RLEF MEDIA OFFICER

Tel: 07850 719412

E-mail: phil.caplan

Web: http://www.rlef.eu.com

RLEF

The Rugby League European Federation

55 King Street,

Manchester M2 4LQ

This e-mail (including any attachments) is intended only for the recipient(s) named above. It may contain confidential or privileged information and should not be read, copied or otherwise used without prior written consent. Statements or opinions may be expressed in this e-mail that are personal to the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the RLEF.

The RLEF is not bound by any contract or obligation created by this e-mail and excludes all liability to you or any third party in respect of its contents (to the maximum extent permitted by the law).

It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that opening this message and/or any of its attachments will not adversely affect its systems. No responsibility is accepted by the RLEF. If you are not the named recipient, please contact the sender and delete the e-mail from your system.

October 26, 2020  

Serbian side travels to Bulgaria to play in rugby league’s Balkan Super League

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

FROM: RLEF MEDIA DEPARTMENT

DATE: 26 October, 2020

CONTACT: phil.caplan / +44 7850719412

SERBIAN SIDE TRAVELS TO BULGARIA IN BALKAN SUPER LEAGUE

The first game has been played in the 2020 Balkan Super League, with Serbian side Radniki Nis travelling to face Lokomotiva Sofia behind closed doors in Trebich, Bulgaria.

The visitors dominated from start to finish, running out 86-6 winners after leading 50-0 at half time, against a side who had not even been able to train together since March because of Covid-19 regulations.

Radnicki captain and president, Lazar Zivkovic said: “It was a good game, we had some problems getting the players together because of restrictions, but we managed to win. However, I must congratulate Lokomotiva for hosting us here and wish them well for the future.”

Counterpart Dimitar Chenev commented: “The match was good, we haven’t been able to play league for a long time so we had problems with offside, but it was a pleasure to play again and to show we had some skills; we tried our best.”

The competition is now in its fourth year, and this game was originally scheduled to be played earlier in the month in the southern Serbian city of Babusnica before coronavirus testing protocols changed for all visitors to the country.

The match ended in controversy with one of the Radnicki players allegedly confronting a match official. Vladan Kikanovic, the Serbian Rugby League Federation general secretary confirmed: “The Serbian Rugby League Federation disciplinary panel is investigating this case and will soon make a decision. The SRLF stresses that we will protect all match officials from any kinds of improper behaviour.”

PHIL CAPLAN

RLEF MEDIA OFFICER

Tel: 07850 719412

E-mail: phil.caplan

Web: http://www.rlef.eu.com

RLEF

The Rugby League European Federation

55 King Street,

Manchester M2 4LQ

This e-mail (including any attachments) is intended only for the recipient(s) named above. It may contain confidential or privileged information and should not be read, copied or otherwise used without prior written consent. Statements or opinions may be expressed in this e-mail that are personal to the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the RLEF.

The RLEF is not bound by any contract or obligation created by this e-mail and excludes all liability to you or any third party in respect of its contents (to the maximum extent permitted by the law).

It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that opening this message and/or any of its attachments will not adversely affect its systems. No responsibility is accepted by the RLEF. If you are not the named recipient, please contact the sender and delete the e-mail from your system.

October 13, 2020  

Triton Warszawa inaugural Polish rugby league champions, as PR XIII send congratulations to Oledzki

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

FROM: RLEF MEDIA DEPARTMENT

DATE: 13 October, 2020

CONTACT: phil.caplan / +44 7850719412

TRITON WARSZAWA INAUGURAL POLISH RUGBY LEAGUE CHAMPIONS AS PR XIII SEND CONGRATULATIONS TO OLEDZKI

Debutants Triton Warszawa are the first-ever Polish Rugby League champions, after defeating the country’s oldest and founding club Magpie Łódź, 20-18 in a dramatic Grand Final.

The match, played behind closed doors in mining town Bełchatów in central Poland because of Covid-19 restrictions, was the culmination of the first domestic season in the country involving four clubs; Wataha Piotrkow and Skierniewice Razorbacks the others.

PR XIII president Łukasz Łucka, commented: “It was a very exciting season for all of us in Polska Rugby XIII, and the Grand Final proved the progress we’re making both on and off the pitch. I’d like to thank all the players, coaches, match officials, and other participants that helped us make it happen. The development continues and we’re all ready to set ourselves the next ambitious goals for the coming years.”

In heavy rain, Tritons – who finished top of the league at the end of the regular season – adapted best to the conditions, Mariusz Ilczuk and a brace from Wojtek Lukasiewicz scoring long range tries, giving them a 14-6 half time lead.

With the floodlights on and adding to the sense of occasion, Magpies hit the front through tries from Lukasz Siewiera and Mateusz Kowalewski and the third of Kowalewski’s goals on the hour. In a desperate last 20 minutes the sides fought tirelessly; Bartek Lesiuk crossing in the final minute for Tritons to level.

Karol Romanski kicked the winning goal from in front of the posts as the final whistle sounded, leading to wild celebrations among the Triton players and staff.

The championships medals they received were funded by an anonymous donor to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Warsaw.

Rugby League European Federation Central & Eastern Europe regional director, Jovan Vujosevic, said: “The RLEF is really proud that Polska XIII has completed its first domestic competition and take this opportunity to congratulate all those involved. This is a big step forward for Poland and we hope that they will soon apply for affiliate membership. With a large diaspora in the UK and Australia, Poland has great potential.”

That has been emphasised with the PR XIII sending its congratulations to Leeds Rhinos prop Mikolaj Oledzki, who is set to become the first Polish rugby player to grace Wembley in this weekend’s Coral Challenge Cup final.

Łucka noted: “There are a lot of people in Poland looking up at him. He’s a real role model, not only for the youngsters who are just starting out in the sport of rugby league here but also to the most experienced players, who are much older than him. His performance and professionalism make us all proud and we wish all the best to him, not only on the final day but every time he plays.”

Gdansk-born Oledzki, who has family in Warsaw, has also received congratulations from the Polish Embassy in the UK and said: “Rugby league is slowly emerging in Poland and it would be great if it could expand. I’m grateful to have the support from everyone.”

TRITON WARSZAWA 20

Tries: Mariusz Ilczuk, Wojtek Lukasiewicz, 2, Bartek Lesiuk

Goals: Karol Romanski 2

MAGPIE ŁÓDŹ 18

Tries: Mateusz Klosinski, Lukasz Siewiera, Mateusz Kowalewski

Goals: Mateusz Kowalewski 3

Any players, volunteers or officials with Polish heritage wishing to get involved in supporting the development of rugby league in the country, please get in touch with;

Poland – Łukasz Łucka – lukaszlucka

UK and Ireland – James szymik – Jamesszymik

Australia – Alex Kowalski – alk_kowalski

PHIL CAPLAN

RLEF MEDIA OFFICER

Tel: 07850 719412

E-mail: phil.caplan

Web: http://www.rlef.eu.com

RLEF

The Rugby League European Federation

55 King Street,

Manchester M2 4LQ

This e-mail (including any attachments) is intended only for the recipient(s) named above. It may contain confidential or privileged information and should not be read, copied or otherwise used without prior written consent. Statements or opinions may be expressed in this e-mail that are personal to the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the RLEF.

The RLEF is not bound by any contract or obligation created by this e-mail and excludes all liability to you or any third party in respect of its contents (to the maximum extent permitted by the law).

It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that opening this message and/or any of its attachments will not adversely affect its systems. No responsibility is accepted by the RLEF. If you are not the named recipient, please contact the sender and delete the e-mail from your system.

October 11, 2020  

Rugby league makes a comeback in Eastern Europe

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

FROM: RLEF MEDIA DEPARTMENT

DATE: 11 October, 2020

CONTACT: phil.caplan / +44 7850719412

RUGBY LEAGUE RETURNS TO PLAY IN EASTERN EUROPE

There has been a gradual return to rugby league action across eastern Europe following the interruptions of coronavirus.

Serbia has been in the vanguard at senior and junior level, with leading club Red Star Belgrade suffering their first Serbian Championship defeat in three years against local rivals Partisan.

Admir Hadzic, RLC Partisan Belgrade director commented: “I would like to congratulate our players on this exceptional victory which is the result of a few years of hard work, especially with our young players. On the other hand, I want to emphasize that RLC Red Star has set really high standards in the last three years, concerning the organization of the club, the way they work with players, participation in international competitions and they have encouraged us to follow the trends they set.

“The Covid-19 impact disrupted them as they were unfortunately left without their great head coach, Phil Economidis who had to return to Australia. I do not want to diminish our victory but emphasize that if we want a stronger and better competition in Serbia, all other clubs must follow Red Star and Partisan – and I think it is possible to do that.”

His side has also played Radnicki Nis in the southern city of Babusnica, near the Bulgarian border. Stadium hire and all the match costs were paid by the municipality as part of a promotion for the sport and in the hope of establishing a club there, the game attracting a number of Partisan soccer fans.

Two more Serbian players have signed for French clubs, emphasising the growing standard. Serbian RLF general secretary, Vladan Kikanovic, noted: “We are proud that two players from the two strongest Serbian clubs will continue their careers in the French Elite 2 competition.

“Vlado Kusic, Partisan Belgrade prop will join RC Salon XIII and Rajko Trifunovic, the Red Star Belgrade winger, RC Carpentars XIII. At a moment there are six Serbian domestic players in France, five in Elite 2 and one in Elite 1. In the last 10 years we had 12 that played in France and all have dramatically improved their skills and bring rugby league knowledge back to Serbia.”

In the Ukraine, Kharkiv Legion XIII (pictured) won the country’s 9s tournament, which was contested by seven clubs including new cities, Ivano-Frankivsk and Khmelnytskyi. The first women’s match in the country was also played between Marichka Raschuk and Oksana Nykoriak. The sides, linked to English Super League clubs, are continuing in the domestic championship.

Nine teams took part in the Czech 9’s Cup over four festival weekends in different locations, Lokomotiva Beroun taking the top spot ahead of Trutnov Wolves and Havlickuv Brod Eagles. The inaugural U15s full-contact game saw hosts Mad Squirrels Vrchlabi defeat Barbarians Letohrad, with Marek Tejchman scoring the first-ever try at that level.

The group stage of the Russian Cup is scheduled to start on 29-30 October. The competition is set to feature 16 teams – Klin, Golitsino, Mozhaisk, Krasnoznamensk, Schelkovo, Academy, Ryazan, Slavic, Bakhchisarai, Flying Dutchman, Koktebel, Locomotive, Olympus and two clubs from Vereya.

National station TRT Spor in Turkey is broadcasting rugby league for the first time, complete with local commentary, showing all of the NRL finals series from Australia.

PHIL CAPLAN

RLEF MEDIA OFFICER

Tel: 07850 719412

E-mail: phil.caplan

Web: http://www.rlef.eu.com

RLEF

The Rugby League European Federation

55 King Street,

Manchester M2 4LQ

This e-mail (including any attachments) is intended only for the recipient(s) named above. It may contain confidential or privileged information and should not be read, copied or otherwise used without prior written consent. Statements or opinions may be expressed in this e-mail that are personal to the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the RLEF.

The RLEF is not bound by any contract or obligation created by this e-mail and excludes all liability to you or any third party in respect of its contents (to the maximum extent permitted by the law).

It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that opening this message and/or any of its attachments will not adversely affect its systems. No responsibility is accepted by the RLEF. If you are not the named recipient, please contact the sender and delete the e-mail from your system.