I feel relative to some of the plans of Euro XIII, the CCCRL is taking a far more conservative approach.
With exception of Quebec, the areas listed as having teams all have some form of Rugby League framework, and whilst it may not be much (ie. Saskatchewan has like one club) it is still a starting point, the format of the games is going to be nines, meaning the number of players that need to be accommodated / flown around is smaller and to begin with all matches will be played out of Lamport Stadium in Toronto.
Arguably to begin with, it is a bit of a rebranded Canada Nationals, not that there is anything wrong with that. From there, hopefully it grows, but if not, even if it just adds to each of the existing regional competitions, it will provide a significant boost to the game in Canada.
How does the 9s format work in a league setting?
I can't imagine buying tickets, or flying a team across the country, to watch/play a single game of 9s
I was hoping the 2022 edition would be a single weekend 9s tournament and the 2023 edition would a 13s league
Thanks for the summary.
I'm a little bit torn what to think, when it looked like Year One was going to be twelve teams at one venue with each playing 5 - 7 games, I could easily see how that could be marketed for crowds and broadcast.
The divisional round concept definitely means more games for everyone, which is a plus, and means everyone gets a chance to play in front of a home crowd and grow support, which is also another tick, but I'm just not sure how compelling it will be as an offering...
Anyway, here's hoping it happens and each event is a success. I'm not sure if the CCCRL has approached someone like Perez to help, but based upon his success getting crowds for the Wolverines and Wolfpack, it would be worthwhile.