Last week, Leeds Rhinos Foundation proudly hosted the launch of its new Rugby League Development Plan (RLDP), welcoming representatives from over 20 community clubs to an evening focused on collaboration, opportunity and the future of the community game in Leeds.
The launch night brought together key figures from across Leeds Rhinos and Leeds Rhinos Foundation, reinforcing a shared commitment to growing Rugby League at every level. The event provided an opportunity to outline the Foundation’s new five-year Rugby League Development Plan, while opening meaningful conversations with community clubs about how they can work together to strengthen participation, pathways and inclusion across the city.
Leeds Rhinos CEO Jamie Jones-Buchanan spoke passionately about the importance of the community game to the club’s identity, highlighting that strong foundations at grassroots level are essential for the long-term health of rugby league. He emphasised the club’s responsibility to support clubs, volunteers, coaches and players, ensuring the sport continues to thrive for future generations.
Sam Horner, Rugby League Development Officer, outlined the charity’s commitment to community impact and explained how the new RLDP builds on the success of previous years. He spoke about the importance of listening to clubs, understanding their challenges and ensuring the Foundation’s programmes are accessible and impactful.
Craig Shepherd, Rugby League Development Officer and lead of the Boys Rhinos Talent Pathway and College Rugby League, introduced the structure of the new plan and how it links participation with clear development and progression opportunities. He highlighted the importance of aligned pathways that support players, coaches and clubs at every stage.
Darren Higgins, Head of Youth at Leeds Rhinos, and Mark Butterill, Head of Pathways and Talent ID, discussed how community rugby plays a vital role in identifying and nurturing talent, while also creating positive environments where young people can develop both on and off the field.
Former Rhinos legend Danny McGuire, now Rugby League Growth and Impact Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, reflected on his own journey through the game and the importance of giving young players opportunities to fall in love with Rugby League, regardless of background or ability.
Jordan Platt, Rugby League Development Officer and Primary Rugby Specialist, shared insight into the Foundation’s work with schools, highlighting how early engagement is key to increasing participation.
The evening also placed a strong spotlight on women and girls’ Rugby League. Leeds Rhinos Women and England international Keara Bennett, Girls Rugby lead at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, spoke about the rapid growth of the women’s game and the need to continue creating welcoming, adaptable environments for girls to play. Leeds Rhinos Women Head Coach Lois Forsell reinforced this message, underlining the importance of visible role models and clear pathways for female players at every level.
The Rugby League Development Plan pillars
The new five-year Rugby League Development Plan is built around five core pillars:
Increasing Participation
Working with community clubs, schools, higher education and the RFL to ensure accessible opportunities and clear pathways into the game.
Player Retention
Delivering sustainable programmes, such as the North v South Player Development Series, alongside coach and club environment development to help keep players engaged.
Women and Girls
Creating more opportunities for women and girls to play Rugby League more often, in flexible and inclusive formats.
Coach Education and Development
Providing high-quality coach education, including Level 1 and 2 qualifications, bespoke workshops and pathway-based development opportunities.
Game for All
Championing diversity and inclusion by delivering programmes that are accessible to all communities and create a strong sense of belonging within the sport.
CLICK HERE to view and book onto our current and upcoming RLDP programmes.
Watch an informative look at the launch night of the RLDP below.