5th September 2020
Surrey Rugby Competitions update: ADULT MALE FUTURE COMPETITIONS PLAN
Despite the encouraging news that rugby may now progress to Stage D of the RFU's 'Return to Rugby Roadmap', the date of when rugby at the community level can fully recommence remains highly uncertain.
In the meantime, the RFU is considering how best to support the adult men's game, to ensure its future health and sustainability. The RFU's objective, which the Surrey County RFU fully supports, is to meet the needs of current and future players, balancing quality of experience and player welfare needs with less travel, whilst at the same time protecting the sustainability of clubs.
The RFU has published a series of proposals for the adult male competition structure of the English Club Championship from Level 3 (National 1) downwards for implementation in 2021-22 (see below link), as well as in respect of Cup competitions.
This includes allowing 2nd XV teams enter the RFU leagues from Level 7 and potentially the breakup of county leagues to a geographical format across counties.
The proposals include reducing league sizes, introducing league break weekends, and organising leagues that minimise travel, all essential to meet the game's needs.
These proposals will affect or have the potential to affect all clubs. We therefore strongly encourage all our clubs in Surrey, at whichever level of the game they participate, to review the RFU's proposals and to provide the RFU with feedback on its proposals.
As you will see from the England Rugby website, comments on the proposals are requested to facilitate discussion and a decision by the RFU Council on 2nd October; the proposals themselves will not be implemented unless agreed by the Council.
Should you have any specific comments, including any representations that our Surrey Councillor's might make at the 2nd October Council meeting, then please message me and I can pass it on and/or message Paula Carter or Malcom Caird directly with your views.
Clubs may also contact
Or share your views on the RFU survey monkey link below.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/8KCJ3N6
Tyrone Lawless
Chair of Competitions and Age Grade Rugby
Chair of Game Development
