I think the "rich and thriving" description of Super League is perhaps a little generous, with only three (I think) clubs in profit last year - which was an improvement over the course of ten years.
Top level improving gradually now as shown by some closer less predictable games this season, crowds been on a gradual increase. But refereeing is a bit shambolic (first year of full time refs), many clubs still going for the instant Aussie/Kiwi solution, instead of bringing juniors (academy players) right through, and media coverage and commentating is still where it has been for a while.
But there's real uncertainty about the National Leagues when the promotion avenue stops for 2009. The RFL needs a plan for how it's going to manage that for clubs outside Super League when the franchises start, but this season has seen some coverage given to some lower division matches on Sky on Thursdays for the first time. So I guess there are possibilities on the horizon, perhaps?
I wasn't hear for the switch of seasons or start of Super League, so I can't comment too much on the changes.
