Steven Broomhead is chief executive of Warrington Borough Council and a director at Warrington Wolves and writes a regular column for the Warrington Guardian

There could be a direct connection between the success of our great Rugby League Club and the happiness quotient and economic productivity in our town. 

If correct then this has been shaken by the heartbreaking and controversial defeat last week in the semi final at Hull KR. 

Perhaps it is time to focus on the bigger picture and reflect on the past seasons achievements? 

Young/homegrown players coming through the academy system and establishing themselves, a trip to Wembley, tirs in the league, best defence and best attack in the Super League and a coach who is both exceptional and inspirational. 

A club that now has good links with the local community clubs.  The foundations for the future are good and strong and the club has a business model of continuous improvement. 

All of this has been achieved in spite of the poor and limited national media attention our game attracts. 

The players in rugby league are authentic and unlike top professional football you can engage with them.  Rugby League as a product is exciting and exhilarating. 

The club is both in the sporting and entertainment business. 

Our game is under significant financial pressures with the resources for each club from the main media supplier have halved in the past 10 years, whilst the salary cap, club and team costs have grown at a rate well above inflation and despite our thrilling season this year ground attendances have decreased slightly – partly as a result of universal TV coverage of the game. 

Increasingly clubs are dependent on their owner's support and philanthropy.   

Financial sustainability is now a top priority whilst providing great customer experiences and value for money. 

There is much to look forward to the next year and I urge you to get behind our town's only professional sport. 

In the meantime we can enjoy our two excellent football teams (Warrington town and Rylands), Rugby Union, Hockey, Cycling and all the wonderful community events and sporting activities that make us a vibrant active town.