Rugby League Coaching Manuals

Leeds Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington has revealed the Super League champions are determined to help restore the credibility of the British game in the wake of England's disastrous World Cup performance. The Rhinos are looking to become the first team to win three championships in a row in the summer era but firstly will be aiming to restore pride in northern hemisphere rugby league when they take on Australian champions Manly Sea Eagles at Elland Road on March 1.

The Rhinos, who provided eight players in England's 25-man squad that failed to get past the semi-finals in Australia, have yet to reach their peak, according to Hetherington.

"The past five years has seen the team reach four Grand Finals, winning three, two Carnegie World Club titles, a League Leaders Shield and we have never been outside of the top three," he said.

"On top of that, we have produced a host of international players. This is without doubt the most successful period in the club's 118-year history.

"The challenge now is to maintain our place at the top of the game. Nothing lasts forever, especially in professional sport, but I am convinced we are in good shape and ready to reach new heights.

"Our key players are in the prime years of their career, we have a stable coaching staff and very significantly, a hunger to succeed. They want to achieve so much more.

"This is the best ever Rhinos team and I genuinely believe it is the best rugby league team in the world.

"The forthcoming Carnegie World Club Challenge against Manly Sea Eagles is a huge occasion and opportunity to cement our place in history as the first team to retain the world title.

"It's big for the club, the city and the credibility of our game in England following the disappointing England showing in the World Cup.

"All in all, it's a great time to be a Rhino and we are committed to continue the journey in 2009. We can't wait for the season to start."