Yorkshire firm aims to put a Rugby League stamp on the Midlands

The Midlands Hurricanes, previously known as the Coventry Bears, is aiming to establish a Rugby League identity in the region.

The team, now backed by a Yorkshire-based construction firm Big Red, has the ambition to grow the predominantly Northern sport into the region, whilst becoming successful in the professional game.

CEO Alan Robinson who has run the Coventry Bears for more than 20 years, said the name ‘Hurricanes’ is synonymous with the elite player pathway run by the Rugby Football League in Loughborough.

Mike Lomas of Big Red Construction will become chairman, alongside being a co-owner with Robinson.

Lomas said: “I am a huge Rugby League fan so when the concept and opportunity presented itself, I was instantly excited that I could be involved in a project like this.

“I believe that raising the profile of the Rugby League in the Midlands area will present a whole lot of opportunity and overall success for the team.

Robinson said: “There are really exciting times ahead for us and rugby fans across the Midlands. Our first game of the year as the Midlands Hurricanes represents a huge opportunity to showcase the new club in all its glory.”

The Midlands Hurricanes played their first game under their new identity on Friday against York City Knights, who hosted the pre-season friendly at the York LNER Community stadium.