Bournemouth Rugby has embraced the RFU’s changes to Age Grade Rugby, introduced from the start of the 2016 /2017 season in September.  The changes are as a result of a four year review by the RFU and provide a new, consistent framework for 6-18 year olds.  

Full information about the changes are on the RFU web site, but in essence:

“The new programme, led by the RFU, in consultation with a wide cross section of the game, will be player centred, development driven and competition supported with the wants and needs of young people at its heart.  It will put player enjoyment above all else to keep more young people in the game.

“For the first time there will be one national competition calendar and a competition menu for 6-18 year old rugby that will provide consistency and clarity across clubs, schools, colleges and representative rugby.

“As part of the four year review young people told the RFU that, above all else, they wanted to have fun playing rugby with their friends. Both expert opinion and the RFU’s own research have shown that emphasis has historically been placed on winning, with evidence of over playing the able players and under playing those less able players to achieve results. Age Grade Rugby will put inclusivity and each player’s skill development first, with the increasing intensity of competition introduced later. Young players will start with festivals and triangulars and progress to knockouts, tournaments and leagues as they get older and develop their game.”

As a Club, we embrace the changes for the long-term benefit of the game, our Club and most of all, all our young players.