The clubs taking part in the North West RLC Premier, Region and Merit League divisions in 2010 gathered together today at Widnes St Maries to launch the new season.

The regional framework this year looks like this:

RLC National

Carlisle Centurions
Liverpool Buccaneers
Warrington Wizards

RLC Premier

Lymm Wolves
New Broughton Rangers
Runcorn
Widnes Saints
Wigan Riversiders

RLC Regional

Chester Gladiators
Crewe & Nantwich Steamers
Mancunians RL
Wigan Riversiders 2nd Team
Blackpool Sea Eagles

Merit League

Chester Gladiators 2nd Team
Crewe & Nantwich Steamers 2nd Team
Mancunians RL 2nd Team
Wigan Riversiders 3rd Team
Wirral Warriors
Accrington Panthers
Ellesmere Port
Leyland Warriors
East Lancashire Vikings
Ashton Bears
St Helens Titans
Liverpool Buccaneers 2nd Team

The meeting gave clubs the chance to meet up ahead of what promises to be an exciting season in the region and receive some advice and support from RFL staff. Photos were taken of the individual club captains/representatives in their respective colours along with a group picture.

Plans were also laid out for the RLC North West rep team which will be coached by Anthony Sullivan.

Thanks to the RFL regional staff for organising the meeting, David Lowe for coming along to answer the clubs questions and Widnes St Maries for hosting and providing the biggest tray of biscuits I've ever seen!

No Huyton Bulldogs this year?

No, although a number of their lads are involved with St Helens Titans.

I attended on behalf of Ashton Bears 'A' and have got to say I was very impressed with the set-up and organisation. In particular the emphasis on getting lads playing the game more than winning games, although there is obviously an element of that in there.

I'm looking to organise some more fixtures so will be in contact with everyone shortly.

That's one of the key things to remember about the Merit League format, it gives clubs the ability to play as many games at they feel comfortable with.

It might be worth pointing out that new clubs are still welcome to join the league and can join at pretty much anypoint during the season. It's a good way to bring new players into the sport, help under 18s make the transition to senior rugby and even just keep lads fit over the summer.

PM me if you'd like more info.

were do st.helens titans train??? and what days and times????

we have a team that have entered the merit league also