While you are correct about school instructors in France, i must point out that there has never been RL instructors or RL games played in French schools at an officially recognised or accepted level, yet the French RL of the mid 30's and throught the 50's to the early 60's flourished.
The schools issue is one issue but by no means is it as serious one as you are making out. Most kids in Australia play soccer at school, but barely any become professional players.
The game of RL needs to be accessible outside schools. Grassroots footy.
Something Australia, England & New Zealand don't spend anywhere near enough money & time on. Yet another example of the poor administration running the game.
Access to schools systems is a very handy advantage used by many sports, particularly RU. I agree that RL administration has been lacking but targeting school systems is a very effective way of getting the game of RL known to the youth of the world.
I think you will note that RL has a decent presence in school systems within NSW and QLD and subsequently this flows onto the greater community. Yes their are factors like TV coverage and other domestic competitions .
Having RL played in various school systems around the world would be of
great benefit for the code.
After all, one would figure that such exposure and presence would open the eyes of many young people to a game that is far and away much more attractive in both play and viewing than other forms of rugby.
Access to the education system is very important.
Just ask RU administrators!
In fact this sports instructor comment on the French scenario was made by English journalist Hugh Schofield in his very apt article called
"French rugby league fights for rights." He mentions, "
Even today the sport is still marginalized." (8th Oct 2002)
PS: Within the Australian context:I have just graduated as a teacher and am fully aware that my level 1
RL coaching certificate will not be useful when approaching most private schools for work.
