The Asociación Española de Rugby League (AERL) hosted its first technical course over the weekend, with 24 new local coaches receiving their Level 1 certificate after the two-day course in Albal, Valencia. Six clubs were present - Irreductibles Mislata RL, RL Albal Valencian Warriors, Rugby Sciences Valencia, CR Edetans Montcada, Alzira Rugby Club, UER Montcada – in addition to a delegation from Madrid, to receive instruction from RLEF Coaching Manager Martin Crick and his fellow RLEF tutor, Spanish-speaking Tiziano Franchini (pictured) from the Federazione Italiana Rugby League.
The AERL hailed the “extraordinary work of Martin and Tiziano” and the “great atmosphere” created by the course among the nascent Spanish rugby league community. “Thanks to the RLEF the work that was carried out over these three days has been unforgettable for all of Spanish rugby league,” said AERL secretary general Aitor Davila.
Juan Pablo Range from Irreductibles Mislata RL said: "The work of the RLEF in Spain has been fantastic; the atmosphere was great, everyone is more engaged and eager to grow this project now. Today we all have clear concepts, there is no doubt, we all have more enthusiasm and love for rugby league."
Gonzalo Morro (Valencia Sciences) said: "Having professionals like Martin and Tiziano for the whole weekend was a luxury - today I feel like a great professional."
The AERL expects to run a five-match club championship this year.