The competitions will see the first 15-a-side competitive matches take place since the first suspension of community rugby in March 2020. The competitions will be played under Modified Laws to reduce contact around the scrum and maul in particular, and there is a focus on staying local during the Pool phases.
WRU Community Director Geraint John said, “These competitions mark an important step on our Pathway to Participation. It’s been great to see clubs back at training and enjoying some 7 and 10-a-side friendlies but clubs, players, coaches and supporters will relish the chance to play some competitive, 15-a-side matches, albeit with some Law modification which are necessary at this time.
“After such a long break from competitive community rugby, the key thing for us as a governing body is to see people back playing the game they love and supporting their local community clubs once again. Online registration for the new season opened on Monday and numbers of players along with coaches, referees and other volunteers are very encouraging which is great to see as they are all vital in getting our game back up and running.
“There are plenty of local derbies to look forward to in these Pool fixtures, while there will be a national draw for the knock-out phases of the men’s competitions and female clubs who make it out of the Pools will face opposition from across south or north Wales.
“The fixtures reflect the flexibility requested by clubs in some Districts to start the Pool rounds in September based on local needs. We will be holding another national webinar before the start of the competitions to pass on any potential changes in guidelines and answer any questions clubs may have.”
