The Game On rules came into operation last season but were only rolled out in the third tier of second team matches.
The success means Game On can now be employed right up to the WRU Conference – which kicks off this week with defending champions Penallta seconds travelling to local rivals Bargoed.
Game On allows clubs to agree on games that could include anywhere between 10-15 players per side. Matches must be played over a minimum of 40 minutes but could have 4×20-minute quarters or a normal two halves of 40 minutes as well as rolling replacements.
The WRU head of rugby participation, Ryan Jones said: “We just want to remove any barriers to playing rugby for your local team. We all love club rugby and recent feedback from clubs and male players including the Shape our Game survey confirmed that the core game is something we want to build on.
“However, we recognise the need to adapt various elements to make it easier for players of all levels to get involved and stay involved. There is no one format or level of competition that appeals to everyone so the key difference going forward will be in the range of options available.
“Whatever your age or ability, whether you have ambitions to step up to your First XV, you’re not yet ready to hang up your boots but aren’t able to commit as much to training or playing as previously, are a lapsed player or just fancy giving rugby a go for the first time, there is now a way for you to play regular rugby at an appropriate level.”
The 10-team Conference was launched at the start of last season to invigorate second team rugby in Wales. The teams were split into East and West divisions with the sides playing each other home and away.
The top two in each division – plus the best finishing third-placed team – were then placed into a new top tier for the second half of the campaign.
The Conference teams were also entered into the WRU National Bowl.
Other Conference games this weekend see Ammanford host Bridgend Athletic, Caerleon tackle Rhiwbina and Risca clash with Cardiff Met.
The new rules can only be rolled out for second team matches up to the Conference.
It’s ‘Game On’ for 2nd XV fixtures
After a successful initiation last season, the WRU has issued a set of guidelines to guarantee second team fixtures are completed – even if clubs struggle to raise a full side for the season ahead.
