Rugby League Season 2024 in Review: Attendance Figures Reveal Passionate Fanbase Across the Championship
The 2024 Rugby League season has drawn to a close, and with it comes the opportunity to delve into the captivating attendance figures across the Championship division. While four clubs were unable to fully disclose their crowd data, the remaining ten teams have provided a fascinating insight into the dedication of their supporters.
Swinton Lions finished at the lower end of the attendance rankings, averaging just 915 fans per game. Their disappointing season on the field, which resulted in relegation to League 1, was mirrored by the struggle to attract four-figure crowds.
Sheffield Eagles, who fell short of the Championship playoffs, managed an average of 1,129 fans, landing them in second-last position. Dewsbury Rams, who finished bottom of the league, managed to pull in an average of 1,190 supporters.
Doncaster, who were promoted from League 1 last year, fared significantly better, attracting an average of 1,472 fans, showcasing their growing fanbase. Halifax Panthers, embroiled in a relegation battle for much of the season, averaged 1,658 supporters, a figure they will hope to improve under new coach Kyle Eastmond.
Barrow Raiders, the Cumbrian club, just fell short of the 2,000 mark, averaging 1,995 fans per game. York Knights, one of only four clubs with a complete attendance record, averaged 2,031, a promising sign of their growth on and off the field.
Toulouse Olympique, the French club who reached the Championship Grand Final, averaged 2,634 fans, while the Widnes Vikings, hopeful of an improved IMG grading, averaged 2,712 supporters.
Topping the charts, however, were the runaway Championship winners, Wakefield Trinity. Buoyed by their relegation from Super League, Trinity consistently attracted crowds in excess of 5,000, averaging an impressive 5,538 fans per game – a significant increase on their 2023 Super League figures.
These attendance numbers showcase the unwavering passion of Rugby League fans across the Championship, with several clubs demonstrating their ability to draw large crowds despite the challenges of the season. As the sport continues to evolve, these figures will undoubtedly be closely monitored and serve as a testament to the loyal and dedicated fanbase that underpins the Championship.
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