THE OLYMPIC CLUB WITHDRAWALS FROM RSL

DALLAS (August 30, 2005) – Today, the Rugby Super League acknowledged the withdrawal of the San Francisco-based Olympic Club from league competition. The decision was formally accepted at the RSL meeting this past weekend in San Francisco. 

Reflecting on the withdrawal, Rugby Super League Chairman Keith Englebrecht noted, "The Olympic Club and its management have been good and welcome partners in the Super League competition. The behavior of their organization has been exemplary. It is disappointing to see such a good partner move in a different direction.  However, the league wishes the team well in future play.”

The Rugby Super League now fields 14 sides in 12 major markets throughout the United States. The withdrawal of Aspen and the Olympic Club has not reduced the breadth or reach of the RSL, since the San Francisco Bay Area already has a RSL team and the Colorado area has an RSL member in Denver.

"The Olympic Club made its decision and shared its intentions with the league on a time-table that was in keeping with the league's normal planning processes,” added Englebrecht.  “As such, there is no negative impact to the league the RSL moves forward with the normal planning process for the spring.  The RSL Competitions Committee will be examining potential structures to suit the league for 2006.” 

"The RSL is very much looking forward to our tenth season. The excitement and energy present at the past weekends meeting was every bit as positive as meetings held a decade ago, prior to our first season.  As the RSL continually works to reach and advance league-wide goals, we must also work to adapt to changes within and outside the League. The Rugby Super League is eager to enhance its positive impact on the rugby played in this country, next year, and going forward,” closed Englebrecht."

The USA Rugby Super League is proudly sponsored by Michelob Amberbock, the official beer of the Rugby Super League, by Kudu Rugby, the official rugby outfitter of the Rugby Super League, by Summit Rugby Balls, the official ball of the Rugby Super League and by Rugby America, official screen printer of the Rugby Super League.