RLPA CEO Clint Newton has shared his belief that the NRL should consider reducing the season’s length in a bid to improve player welfare and performance.
At present, the first games of rugby league occur in February each year with the NRL All Stars and trials, with four teams flying off to Las Vegas a few weeks later, and run right through until September for most sides, who begin their pre-seasons around November.
Given the gruelling nature of rugby league, which demands immense physical effort from every competitor some, including Newton and several NRL players, believe the current calendar is unsustainable.
peaking to SEN, Newton revealed
a 22 round season is a “really nice sweet spot.”
While this would mark a big drop from the current 27 round campaign, Newton explained the RLPA “know statistically from our players that they believe a reduction in the number of matches they’re asked to play will produce better results for them.”
He noted these better results include longer careers, fewer injuries, improved recovery time, and crucially for fans and stakeholders in the game an improvement in player performance.
RLPA boss proposes ‘sweet spot’ season length amid player welfare concerns
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