THE Rugby Football League is calling on community Rugby League clubs to throw open their doors on the weekend of April 12-13 for The Big Rugby League Open Day – a national initiative aiming to grow membership in community clubs.

All community clubs are being encouraged to take part in the national event, which will see sides from up and down the country simultaneously invite their communities in for a taste of their local team.

It follows a successful “Welcoming Clubs” campaign in October 2013, which saw volunteers from sixty-six clubs attend workshops designed to help community clubs capitalise on interest generated by Rugby League World Cup 2013.

To aid community clubs wishing to participate, the RFL has organised a series of free workshops (listed below) designed to provide expert guidance on running a successful event, and how to get the most out of The Big Rugby League Open Day.

RFL Director of Participation and Strategic Partnerships David Gent said: “The passion within our community clubs is incredible and we wanted to build on the success of Rugby League World Cup 2013.

“The aim of the campaign is to encourage community clubs to engage with their local community and gain practical advice on how to drive club recruitment through a really well run open day”

All clubs attending the workshop will receive a free resource pack to help run their day and advertise to the local community.

Participants will receive information on how to market their club and purchase customised club gear, as well as receiving free advice and mentoring to help problem solve and plan their day in the run-up to the weekend.

Clubs who would like to participate in The Big Rugby League Open Day should contact Vicky Turner at vicky.turner@rfl.uk.com

Local workshop dates are as follows:

Monday March 10, 7.00 – Golborne Parkside Pirates

Monday March 24, 7.00 – Chorley Panthers