Under sports marketing experts IMG’s radical ‘reimagining rugby league’ overhaul, teams will be graded on factors including fanbase, stadium, finances and catchment area, as well as playing record.
Clubs with an A grade will be guaranteed a Super League spot, thus becoming exempt from relegation. The rest of the top-flight will be made up of the best-ranked B grade clubs.
With illustrative grades due to be announced on Wednesday, here’s a look at 22 of the top clubs’ strengths and weaknesses and an – unscientific – assessment of their possible grade.
7. Huddersfield Giants
Strengths: Cup finalists last year, are bringing players through their junior system. Weaknesses: Don't own their stadium, heavily reliant on their owner, poorly supported. Predicted grade: Higher B. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
8. Hull FC
Strengths: Decent crowd base, a long-term Super League club, wealth of local playing talent, strong links to the city’s university. Weaknesses: They don’t own the stadium and are one of two clubs in the same city. Predicted grade: Higher B. Photo: John Rushworth/SWpix.com
9. Hull KR
Strengths: Own and have improved their stadium, established in Super League and reached a final this year, solid supporter base, good gameday experience. Weaknesses: Proximity to another top-flight club. Predicted grade: HIgher B. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
10. Keighley Cougars
Strengths: Long-established club, made progress on the field before relegation for the Championship this year. Weaknesses: Small town club, close to Bradford Bulls. Predicted grade: Lower B. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
11. Leeds Rhinos
Strengths: Just about everything - they own an outstanding stadium, are regularly the best-supported club, have a thriving Foundation, outstanding youth system and successful women's and wheelchair sides. Weaknesses. None, really. Predicted grade: A. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
12. Leigh Leopards
Strengths: Have invested in pre-match entertainment and playing strength, crowds are increasing and performances improving, including a Challenge Cup win this year. Weaknesses: Don’t own their stadium, trailing in junior development, in the same borough as Wigan and heavily reliant on their owner. Predicted grade: HIgher B. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com