Former Arsenal and England captain, Tony Adams, will become president of the English Rugby Football League from next summer.
Adams was named on Wednesday as the surprise successor Andy Burnham.
"It will be an honour to become the next president of the Rugby Football League," said Adams.
I am passionate about working with everyone in the sport to raise the profile of mental health, wellness and resilience, for players and for everyone in rugby league.
I'd like to play my part in championing this brilliant sport on the national stage.
Adams's association with the RFL began through his Sporting Chance Clinic. The charity provides a specialist addiction and recovery facility for sportspeople.
Adams was key in helping the league establish its player welfare programmes.
