| The game of rugby league evolved
from the original game of rugby football but was played by a faction
who, rather than follow the rules set by the Rugby Football Union,
developed an alternative game.
Rugby league evolved during the late part of the 19th century and
was generally played amongst the working classes. Within just a
few years it became very popular in the north of England where the
Northern
Rugby Football Union (NRFU) was formed, much to the
disapproval of the gentry who had, until then, controlled the original
game of rugby football. While the game is still popular in the north
of England, it's very much a minority sort in the south and almost
non-existent in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Although the game was originally played on an amateur basis, working
class players found it difficult to continue playing without any
reimbursement for time off work for training, matches and injury.
This eventually led to the Northern Rugby Football Union making
changes in the rules that then enabled entrance fees to be charged
and the players were given a small remuneration. It was at this
time the evolved version of the game was given the name Rugby League.
Today, premier professional rugby league clubs are administered
by the Rugby
Football League whereas amateur clubs are controlled
by the British
Amateur Rugby League Association.
If you're interested in playing rugby league, links
to local rugby league clubs can be found on this site. You're also
welcome to add a link to your own club by using the link below.
Once a listing is approved you can update and manage the
information free of charge at any time.
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