Leigh Centurions today formally announce the end of the Dual Registration partnership agreement with Wigan Warriors.



The partnership was established early in 2013 to follow RFL policy which only allowed duel registrations to and from a ‘partner club’. These partnerships had to be formally established and approved before any player could be duel registered between two clubs.



However, proposed changes to the Super League format has resulted in the agreement being reconsidered by the Leigh Board of Directors who were appointed after the original partnership was agreed. The decision has not been taken lightly, however it is imperative Leigh Centurions stand on their own two feet as the new season approaches.



The Club would like to place on record their appreciation to Wigan Warriors and in particular their Chairman Ian Lenagan for their understanding and support which has been professional from the outset.



Leigh Chairman John Roddy commented;



“The relationship with Wigan has been mutually beneficial but with proposed changes to Super League and the return to promotion and relegation in whatever form it takes, Leigh Centurions must be independent and capable. The Board of Management have also taken on board a significant number of concerns raised by our supporters, sponsors, and local business community. That negativity, whilst perhaps sometimes unfounded, simply had to be addressed. We look forward to 2014/15 and beyond with massive ambition, but we now need the local community, fans and sponsors to back us and prove to the game they want a Club worthy of Super League status in the future.



Centurions Director Steve Openshaw added;



“I know as much as anyone how much the rivalry means to the Leigh fans all and I admit to being a bit sceptical when the partnership was first announced. However, I have to admit were a number of joint benefits to this partnership behind the scenes that many of the fans won’t have seen. Tom Spencer being one. We had a lot support from the Warriors and the working relationship with them was useful last season especially when we were short on numbers. We thank them for that, but changes in Super League mean we have to move on to the next step on our own. We've built a strong squad for 2014 and stand on our own two feet - we need our loyal fans to back the lads and show the game we have the support to succeed’.

In crystal clear black and white for all to read.



Another very good decision by those who are trying to get this club up the leagues and one that can only be viewed as a positive in the areas where we want to attract fans and sponsors (and players).

Its the most optimistic I've been pre season for many a year about Leigh and what we are trying to achieve, its actually starting to feel like we are now not just going in the right direction but also doing so with a bit of purpose and confidence as well.

Agree completely Jenky. No more excuses for staying away by the doubters. Get behind the lads. Can not wait for the start of the season, not to mention the friendlies. COME ON LEIGH!!!

That's fantastic news. I never really had a problem with our partnership because we used it correctly, unlike some other clubs I could mention; but I'm really glad we are now able to stand on our own two feet.



Well done once again to John Roddy and the Board of Management.

That's great news.



I can't think that any Leigh fan really felt comfortable with the arrangement, although it did fulfill a need at the time.

I agree with Mish on this one.



Anyways hope to see Wysiwyg on the 26 bus to Leigh soon.

Over the past couple of months ive not seen one Negative announcement or bit of News concerning Leigh Centurions , everything is geared up for a good pre-season , and I hope the Fans start to show their appreciation for the Work and Effort everyone at the Club has put in .



There are NO excuses anymore , but I know some will find them , this BOD is the BEST we have had for years , definitely the most open ,Cmon Leythers show you care , I know a few cant afford Season Tickets , or it is not worth it to them because of other commitments , but if you can afford a season Ticker , please do so .Myself I haven't bought one yet , but will be doing in the New Year .

Are you sure about that lobsterfan. Hope you are but lets wait and let it sink in

Where is Wysiwyg by the way not heard him on here for a while?



Yet more great news from our great club.

This is excellent new



This could only of been achieved by our current BOM'S hard earned cash so thank you

Good, never to happen again EVER

The most positive and encouraging statement made by the new BOM to date.



Onwards and upwards !!