Surrey Rugby’s Under 17 Development Programme is the foundation piece for an aspirational pathway that allows players not in professional academies to play at the highest possible level and to represent their county.

The programme aims to:

1. Create a culture of learning and development through principles of play.
2. Focus on skill acquisition and development, game understanding and the physical components that helps players unlock their potential.
3. Stress the importance of enjoyment and a lifelong love of the game.
4. Allow progression opportunities for late developing players to bridge to the Elite Pathway (professional academies).
5. Give opportunities to play for Surrey later in the season.

The programme consists of nine coaching sessions between September and March with a further three coaching and three playing opportunities during April and May, that are organised by the London and South-East Regional team.

The squad will consist of around 75 players and there are multiple entry points:

• Harlequins recommendation for players released from their Foundation Stage (DPP) at U16
• Harlequins recommendation for players released from their Development Stage (PDG)
• Clubs, schools and coaches nominations – via assessment
• Ongoing nominations/assessments throughout season