The National Conference League (known as the Impact Performance National Conference League for sponsorship reasons and often abbreviated to simply NCL) is the fourth tier of the male British rugby league structure, currently consisting of top-level amateur clubs based wholly within Northern England.

Since 2012, the National Conference League operates over a summer season in line with the professional game.

History

The league was founded as the BARLA National League for the 1986–87 season with 10 teams: Dudley Hill, Egremont Rangers, Heworth, Leigh Miners Welfare (now Leigh Miners Rangers), Milford Marlins, Millom, Pilkington Recs, West Hull, Wigan St Patrick's and Woolston Rovers. The original NCL concept was one team per town.

The league added a second division in 1989, and expanded to three divisions (now named premier, first and second as opposed to first and second) along with a rebrand to the current name of National Conference League in 1993.

Somewhat confusingly, in the late 1990s and 2000s another major amateur competition was also titled conference: the Rugby League Conference (RLC), which operated a summer season as opposed to the traditional winter season retained by the NCL. The move to a summer season by the NCL in 2012 and a reorganisation by the RFL resulted in a merger of the leagues and the creation of a new NCL 3rd division out of the old RLC National Division, which was replaced by the Conference League South in 2013.

The National Conference League is a highly anticipated and fiercely competitive rugby league tournament that showcases the best teams from across England. Established in 1986, it has become one of the most prestigious competitions in the sport, attracting a large and passionate following.

The tournament features teams from various regions, each representing their local communities with pride and determination. These teams consist of talented and dedicated athletes who possess exceptional skills, strength, and tactical prowess. The National Conference League provides a platform for these players to showcase their abilities and compete at the highest level.

The tournament follows a rigorous and demanding schedule, with teams battling it out in a series of intense matches. The league is divided into multiple divisions, ensuring that teams of similar skill levels compete against each other, creating a fair and exciting playing field.

Throughout the season, teams strive to secure victories and accumulate points, aiming to finish at the top of their respective divisions. The top-performing teams from each division then progress to the playoffs, where they face off against each other in thrilling knockout matches. The ultimate goal for these teams is to reach the grand final and be crowned champions of the National Conference League.

The National Conference League not only provides thrilling on-field action but also fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie. Fans from all walks of life come together to support their local teams, creating an electric atmosphere at each match. The tournament serves as a platform for communities to unite, celebrate their shared love for rugby league, and create lasting memories.

With its rich history, competitive nature, and passionate fanbase, the National Conference League is a must-watch tournament for rugby league enthusiasts. It showcases the very best of the sport, combining skill, athleticism, and teamwork in a thrilling and unforgettable spectacle.