In August 2016, the IRFU Ulster Branch piloted a programme of 'Adult Age Grade Rugby', with a total of 7 Clubs playing 1 or more fixtures throughout the Province.
The programme was designed as a means to address evidenced drop-off in participation as participants move from age grade to adult ranks of sports clubs in Ireland.
The pilot took place under the following guiding principles, which research has indicated as being key in attracting young players:
1. Opportunity to play alongside peers
2. Quality coaching environment
3. Good social environment
4. Focus on participation rather than performance
5. Flexible eligibility criteria to enable fielding of 15 players
As a result of the pilot, all 7 Clubs have expressed a desire to continue participating in, and developing a structure moving forward.
The pilot has already reaped rewards for the participating clubs as Clive Bowles, from Portadown RFC, acknowledged:
“We have already noticed that we have been able to attract some more school leavers to the club, and bring back some players who had stopped playing after youth rugby.
“The feedback from the players involved has also been very positive. They have enjoyed playing with players of a similar age and have built a camaraderie that has enhanced friendships and promoted a stronger sense of belonging to the club.
“There is great potential in this project and I would encourage other clubs to get involved.”
For more information on this programme, contact Paul Whitten, Rugby Operations Co-ordinator on Paul.whitten@ulsterrugby.com or call 028 90 493111 ext 247.
The programme was designed as a means to address evidenced drop-off in participation as participants move from age grade to adult ranks of sports clubs in Ireland.
The pilot took place under the following guiding principles, which research has indicated as being key in attracting young players:
1. Opportunity to play alongside peers
2. Quality coaching environment
3. Good social environment
4. Focus on participation rather than performance
5. Flexible eligibility criteria to enable fielding of 15 players
As a result of the pilot, all 7 Clubs have expressed a desire to continue participating in, and developing a structure moving forward.
The pilot has already reaped rewards for the participating clubs as Clive Bowles, from Portadown RFC, acknowledged:
“We have already noticed that we have been able to attract some more school leavers to the club, and bring back some players who had stopped playing after youth rugby.
“The feedback from the players involved has also been very positive. They have enjoyed playing with players of a similar age and have built a camaraderie that has enhanced friendships and promoted a stronger sense of belonging to the club.
“There is great potential in this project and I would encourage other clubs to get involved.”
For more information on this programme, contact Paul Whitten, Rugby Operations Co-ordinator on Paul.whitten@ulsterrugby.com or call 028 90 493111 ext 247.