As part of the RLEF’s European Commission-backed Governance Foundation Project, Scotland Rugby League official Mark Senter visited Riga to observe the Latvian Rugby League Federation’s AGM in mid-December and conduct some technical sessions.

“My visit to Latvia was a very enjoyable and humbling experience,” said Senter. “Latvia Rugby League is very driven to succeed and is working very hard to promote and grow the game in Latvia. Scotland Rugby League will look to further support Latvia Rugby League in whatever way possible to help them grow and become more sustainable.”

Four clubs attended the AGM - one more than in 2011 – where Senter presented SRL’s annual report as an example of good practice. Lithuanian coaches joined their neighbours for the defence workshops run by Senter, while SRL and LRL will now look to expand the fledgling co-operation to include coach exchanges through SRL partner Cumbernauld College in Glasgow and a visit to Latvia in 2014 by Scotland Students.

“I am very pleased to participate in this project,” said LRL General Manager Vilmars Sokolovs. It helps LRL develop rugby league in Latvia. Mark's visit and the knowledge and practices that we got from his sessions will give our coaches and players even more enthusiasm to work on improving Latvian rugby league standards. We face the future with optimism, and with SRL and RLEF support hope to make our efforts more efficient. Next year, due to our participation in the Governance project and college exchange programs [with Scotland] we expect to run the most exciting league season in Latvia ever.”