Rugby Landscape.

 

There is much discussion around the clubs about The Rugby Landscape – the RFU blueprint for the future, drawn up after a website survey during the late summer.  The RFU are now holding a series of road shows around the country, to explain their thoughts.  It is understood that the final proposals will be presented to the RFU Council on 14 November.  In the Westcountry one such meeting has been held at Exeter RFC, and there will be another at Camborne RFC on Wednesday 08 October.

 

It has been reported that the turn out at Exeter was not good, but it is certain that our clubs will be well represented at Camborne.  At these meetings it is understood that the RFU are outlining the need for change, together with the proposals to modify numbers in leagues.  At the end of the season sponsorship of the EDF Cup will cease, and this includes funds for the Trophy and Vases (Senior and Junior).

 

The RFU have also realised that most clubs need to maximise the number of Saturdays when competitive, ie league or cup, rugby is played.  Although there are exceptions it is a fact that clubs no longer wish to play friendlies.  To a club knocked out of the National and CRFU Cups in the first round there could be eight (around 25%) Saturdays without a 1st XV game

 

Travel is another factor.  Apparently the feeling from many clubs is that long travel distance is not a major factor, but what comprises a long trip?  To many clubs fortunate enough to be located in the centre of England 50 miles is a long way.  But to us here in The Duchy a short trip might consist of a 200 mile round trip to say Exeter or Tiverton.  Long distance travel to us means in excess of say a 400 mile round trip.

 

But to return to Rugby Landscape.  In order for clubs to maximise their season it is proposed that there will be changes to the league structure.  There will continue to be promotion and relegation, but numbers moving each way have yet to be finalised, and the pyramid structure will be retained.  It is understood that the Premier Division will remain at 12 clubs, whilst the current 1st Division, to be renamed the Championship, will be reduced from 16 to 12 clubs.  The current Division Two, to be renamed Division One, will probably be increased from 14 to 16 teams.

 

Each Level 5 club (ie South West 1) will be placed in one of four 14 team leagues, and will be regarded as National League clubs, with further 14 team leagues at some, but possibly not all levels. It is understood that the RFU hope the restructuring will all be in place for the start of the 09/10 season.