New Rugby League Partnership to benefit West Leeds
Bramley Buffaloes Rugby League Club and Rodley Rockets ARLFC have formally agreed to merge from the start of 2014.
The partnership, which will see the new club playing under the Bramley Buffaloes name, was unanimously agreed by members from both clubs at meetings just before Christmas.
Buffaloes chairman Martyn Cheney explained: “This is a major landmark in the history of rugby league within West Leeds and will involve the Buffaloes playing their home matches at Rodley’s Canal Bank ground.
“The merger will take place in 2014 with all of the Rodley juniors taking the Buffaloes name and branding immediately. The open age Rodley side will officially become the Buffaloes in time for their winter 2014/2015 season.
“We will be looking to forge partnerships with community groups through out West leeds who share our co-operative ethos.
“Ten years on from the Bramley’s first season back in Rugby League, this is a merger that makes so much sense for all parties. We are now looking forward to an exciting and sustainable future for the sport in this part of the world.
“Stanningley ARLFC have been fantastic hosts for the past decade and I’d like to thank them for all of their support, without which the resurrection of Bramley Rugby League would not have been possible,” added Martyn.
Tracy Bowes, Chair of Rodley Rockets ARLFC, added: “The decision on the part of our members was unanimous and the long and proud history of the Rockets will now become a part of the Bramley Buffaloes’ future.
“This will benefit both clubs in so many ways and promises much in the way of commercial and community development across West Leeds,” she added.