Bramley Buffaloes Declare Intent to Join League One in 2025
In a significant development for the lower tiers of English rugby league, a third club has announced its intention to join League One in 2025. This announcement comes in the wake of the Rugby Football League’s (RFL) recent call for formal applications to expand the competition.
Currently, League One is comprised of just nine teams, following the unfortunate dissolutions of London Skolars and West Wales Raiders. However, as the IMG grading system takes effect, a restructuring of the divisions below Super League is on the horizon for the 2025 season.
Joining the previously declared interest from Goole Vikings and Bedford Tigers, the historic Bramley Buffaloes have now publicly expressed their desire to rejoin the professional game. Founded in 1879, the Buffaloes boast an impressive legacy, including being the first club to have a player, James Lomas, move for £100 to join Salford. Additionally, the team has enjoyed a stint playing at the renowned Headingley stadium in the late 1990s, with notable figures like John Kear and Barrie McDermott associated with the club.
“In a statement on their website, the Bramley Buffaloes chairman, Martyn Cheney, acknowledged the challenges that come with this ambitious bid, but emphasized the club’s determination to ensure the best outcome for all parties involved.”
The Buffaloes’ first team currently sits atop their division in the Yorkshire Men’s League, having won five of their opening six league games.
Should the Bramley Buffaloes’ application be successful, the club looks forward to renewing local rivalries with Hunslet and other historic rugby league clubs, as they have done since their inception nearly 150 years ago.
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