The revamp means there will now be a 22-month programme of development for emerging players between 14 and 16 years old (U15 and U16).
As part of the wider ongoing player pathway reform, the newly introduced Emerging Player Programme (EPP) will be led by the regions, supported by the WRU, and delivered locally across 24 schools districts across Wales.
Sitting as part of the new Talent Discovery phase of the player pathway, the principle of the EPP programme is to enhance individual player development in a locally based group setting. This will allow players a longer period of time to explore their potential in high quality environments with a strong regional connection.
To facilitate the 22-month developmental window, the first year (U15) will feature festival based competitions alongside regular training, allowing players to continue playing for clubs and schools alongside the programme. Players will then progress to the Dewar Shield competition at U16 (Year 11) as the priority competition for identified players at this age and stage. The Dewar Shield will now run between September and Christmas.
Geraint John, WRU Community Director said: “Previously the Dewar Shield was engaging approximately 750-800 players which equates to around 13% of the active U15 players registered in Wales with selection decisions typically made in a short period of time when young male players are changing the most.
“The new target set is to engage double that number, with around 1500 players in the programme over an extended time frame, allowing more players more time and space to explore their potential with a clear pathway to regional academies and beyond.”
Chris Ower, WRU Head Of Playing & Retention added: “As an example of good practice, the Scarlets recently engaged with their five EPP districts during a 2-day camp at the University of Trinity St David in Carmarthen. 140 Dewar Shield participants attended the event, where Scarlets players and coaches offered valued guidance during the sessions ranging from strength and conditioning, player education, individual and unit skills, and match play”.
WRU Interim Performance Director, Huw Bevan said: “The 14-16 age group is where the community game first meets the performance pathway and we as a Union are confident that the supported reforms better connects our community and professional games, and will ultimately create more and better players for our clubs, regions and country.”
The Welsh Schools Rugby Union Intermediate Group said: “We are proud to have been the custodians of one of the oldest schoolboy rugby competitions in world rugby, established in 1904.
“We recognise the contribution over many years of schoolteachers, volunteers and more recently WRU staff in ensuring that young players have the opportunity of being a part of this legacy.”
“We are grateful that the programme continues to be recognised as a key element in the in the WRU Player Pathway programme, and will be supported in continuing that role.
The 26 Intermediate Group Districts will continue to work in partnership with the WRU and Regions in ensuring that the competition continues to provide a programme of the highest quality to support the development of our young players, and ensure that the Dewar Shield will continue for many years to come.”
The opening round of the Dewar Shield starts next week with local derbies such as Swansea East Vs Aberavon (13th September) and Pontypridd Vs Rhondda (15th September).
