INTERNATIONAL relations have been strengthened for two Rugby League sides after the President of Hungary Rugby League paid a visit to Avenue Street in Bolton.
President Zsolt Lukacs, was put in touch with the Club Secretary of Bolton Mets, Stuart Cooke, in 2015 after participating in a refereeing course in St. Helens as part of a bid to help grow the sport in his home nation.
After returning to the UK to watch the 2016 World Club Challenge Mr. Lukacs was invited by Stuart to visit Bolton Rugby Club to watch their recent Old Boys game.
During the meeting, the possibility of a tour to Budapest was raised. Both were keen to organise the trip which is hoped will take place in October this year.
Magyar Bulls RLFC, the Hungarian national Rugby League side, were formed in 2011. They want to strengthen ties with other rugby league clubs across the globe and hope that the proposed tour will help the sport to prosper in Hungary.
Mr Lukacs said: “We have motivation, enthusiasm and commitment but no knowledge of course!
“We are taking part of the EU/Rugby League European Federation program, developing coaches and match officials.
“I believe it will help Hungarian RL to develop. It would still give them the chance to learn, to develop with a real chance of success.”
This is not the first time that Bolton Mets have reached out across international borders.
Last year they toured the Netherlands and have ties with the Rotterdam Pitbulls, who they play host to this summer.
Stuart Cooke said: “After a successful tour to Rotterdam in 2015 we’re very keen to replicate that with a trip to Budapest.
“As you would expect the lads are very keen to go and have a weekend away, but to also to get the chance to play Rugby League in a new environment and have a hand in developing the sport in Hungary.”
A major concern for the Hungarians at the moment is the lack of support from within Hungary and the limited number of players available.
Mr Lukacs added: “With the player pool of 50 maximum, it’s just not realistic to think about the Rugby League World Cup in 2017.
“In 20 years, it would be possible with steady development, commitment and outside help from the heartlands in England and Australia.
“Without efficient help we can’t reach that target any time soon. Hungary is a non rugby nation.”
A keen player himself, the Hungarian RL president agreed to pull on a shirt and play Second Row for the Old Boys, minutes after arriving at Avenue Street for his visit.
By Adam John
@amjohn94
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