The number of disciplinary cases have fallen by a dramatic 40per cent over the last two years, and the NCL Chairman Trevor Hunt believes that is due to the efforts of the players, coaches and officials across all four divisions.

“Myself and the Management Committee are delighted with the way our clubs have conducted themselves so far,” said Hunt.

“It’s pleasing to see that despite the competitiveness of our league discipline has improved massively and I hope to see that continue for the rest of the campaign and beyond. But we will not be resting on our laurels.”

“We will continue to strive to reduce the disciplinary hearings, and remove foul play or abusive language from the playing fields.”

“The incidents we deal with range from a number of careless or reckless tackles to a small number of brawls – none of which we condone.”

“But we work together with the clubs and the referees to try and ensure we have the best development environment for all concerned.”

“Of course if a player or a club doesn’t get the message then they can expect a hefty ban or fine. Thankfully they are few and far between.”

The NCL has also introduced the “early guilty plea” for players who commit certain graded offences, and that too is proving hugely successful.

“It has cut down the number of hearings, and generally has been extremely well received by the clubs and players alike.

“We are never worried about trying new ways of working and in the not too distant future will be trialling holding disciplinary hearings through the use of media tablets.”

To find out more about the NCL Disciplinary procedures and latest hearing minutes visit
www.nationalconferenceleague.co.uk/about_ncl/disciplinary