Exeter Centurions

The RFL Community Board has confirmed its player registration policy following its latest meeting.

The policy – which comes in with immediate effect and covers both male and female adult players – means a player will choose to register for a primary club and once signed-on is free to represent any team within it, irrespective of which competition they play in.

Another element of the policy sees players given the opportunity to choose and register for a second club, as long as the club is part of a non-conflicting competition.

However, whenever there is a conflict of fixture the player must always play for their primary club, unless his primary club agrees differently.

“We believe this rule will offer players the chance to play as much or as little Rugby League as they wish,” said RFL Director of Participation and Strategic Partnerships David Gent.

“The policy allows all players to be flexible in their options of when and where to play the game.”

Armed Forces and Student players are not tied by this policy and are free to register for a community club side whilst also representing their force or university/college, however, if a clash arises then they must give precedence to the Armed Forces or Student side.

A player can alter their primary club by completing a transfer form in the usual manner.

Stuart Prior, the BARLA representative on the Community Board was also pleased with the outcome of Wednesday’s meeting.

“Coming to an agreement and setting out this policy is a great piece of work by all concerned.

“The policy is in place to protect the integrity of the game with the primary club aspect vital for the sustainability of the future of the community game.”