LEIGH Leopards have achieved Grade A status in the RFL and IMG grading process, a significant milestone that secures the club's status in the Betfred Super League for the 2025 season.

A Leopards' statement attributes this success to the club's stakeholders, staff and especially the players, coaches and supporters.

They state: "Have no doubt, today is one of the most important in the club’s long history."

This accomplishment follows an impressive score of 15.13 out of 20, marking a remarkable increase from last year’s score of 12.45. This ranks the club as seventh, an increase of five places from 2023.

The grading process evaluates clubs across five main pillars: on-field performance, fandom, community engagement, financial health, and facilities. Achieving a score of 15 or more places Leigh Leopards among the top graded clubs.

This achievement is based on three years of data, including the performance during the 2022 season in the Championship.

The statement reads: "The Operational Board have invested hundreds of hours poring over this process and considering its implications for our club.

"If we had matched last year’s grading score we would not be in Super League for 2025 despite a fifth and fourth-placed finish and a Challenge Cup win in the past two seasons.

"Last year’s score was reduced by 0.25pts when we failed to retain the Challenge Cup as this counts only in the year it is won.

"Grade A was made possible because of the magnificent efforts of the players and staff in achieving fourth position in Betfred Super League in 2024 and thus increasing our performance pillar.

"The magnificent support of our fans in recording our highest home league average crowds for 69 years. This increased our stadium utilisation score.

"In recent weeks we discovered that our score would be further reduced by 0.125pts when our big screen at LSV was deemed not to meet RFL specifications, even though it was UEFA compliant for the recent Women’s Euros. Hence why our originally forecast score of 15.24 was reduced to 15.13 taking into account a slight increase for our finishing position above that which we forecast.

"It really did come down to the players, coaches and fans! Two key elements that got us over the line.

"Leigh Leopards remain focused on continuing to challenge at the highest level while maintaining an inclusive and engaging experience for our supporters and the local community.

"Together, we will continue to strive for excellence in all areas and reinforce our position as a key player in the Betfred Super League."