Rugby Football League Pitch Maintenance

The aim is to provide an even surface, without significant undulations, allowing players to run without fear of stumbling. The surface and especially the root system must provide a good grip for tackling and turning. The grass length should be able to provide a suitable cushion for players on impact with the ground, which itself must not be too hard. The surface should drain reasonably well to avoid water collecting in small puddles as otherwise this would be a significant hazard for play if players were to become face down following a tackle. The rugby league season typically runs from February to September, going into early to mid-October for Super League play-offs and final.