THE RFU’s parlous current financial position has led to competition among some grassroots clubs for loan funding, along with resentment that Championship clubs are receiving £650,000 each from the Union.
Their argument is that £650k could sustain a grassroots club as a community hub for 30 years, whereas at Championship clubs it goes to sustain a pro structure where the lion’s share goes to players and coaches.
The reality is that the second pro league has proved its worth judging by the number of players it has produced for the England side. And as long as there is ...