Canada national team head coach Jamie Lester has hailed the conclusion of his adoptive country’s recently concluded championship. The four-team competition, based in Ontario, saw Niagara Bobcats triumphant last weekend in the month-long tournament. “This year’s domestic competition illustrated just how far Canada Rugby League has come after just over a year of existence,” said the New Zealander and former NZRL development officer. “We are looking forward to developing new clubs, increasing the length of our season, and playing inter-provincial matches for the 2012 season.”

Bobcats head coach, ex-Swinton Lion Chris Diamond, was full of praise for the players in Canada: "This win is a testament to the great talent that exists in the region,” he said. Lester, whose Toronto Saints side, lost out in the final round, now has his eyes on the representative structure that CRL has created. “I am certain that CRL will continue to grow throughout 2011 with international fixtures scheduled against Jamaica, USA (home and away), and South Africa. This will certainly raise our profile and aid the growth of our domestic scene.” It is a view shared by CRL chairman Eric Perez: "The selectors have a tough ask trying to cut down the squad to 30 players...there are some really difficult decisions being made. We aren't looking to just show up and compete," was Perez’s defiant message.