Last week the criteria for Lower XVs to enter the RFU leagues [The English Clubs Championship] up to level 7 in the men’s game, was sent to clubs and CBs (Constituent Bodies) via the Community Game Update. All voting clubs can express an interest from level 3 -12 and Championship (Level 2 – 3rd XV and below only).
The advance notice was to allow clubs to begin initial discussions around whether they would wish to express interest in entering, or if they would like to see Lower XVs teams enter the leagues.
The expression of interest form is available to complete here, with submission deadline of 17 January.
Please note that completing an expression of interest does not commit a club to taking part, nor is there a guarantee that clubs that express an interest will have their application approved to participate at a specific level.
A reminder of the criteria can be found here.
Clubs who already have Lower XVs playing in the English Clubs Championship are not required to express an interest, as it is assumed they will wish to continue their participation in the league programme. However, should they wish to express an interest in entering additional Lower XVs they should complete it.
Please be aware that clubs can only enter one team to compete in a level of competition. For example, if you wished to enter a 2nd and 3rd team they would be admitted into different levels of competitions. If clubs wish lower XV teams to join but not join themselves, they need to raise this with their CBs.
The aim of introducing lower XVs to RFU leagues is to:
• increase the number of teams competing at certain levels
• help reduce travel time for clubs and players
• keep more players actively involved in the game
• minimise walkovers in lower leagues by increasing the opportunity for more local rugby.
The effect of the changes will be monitored through the competition structure with periodic reviews during the first three years.
For more detail on the timeline, decision making process and FAQs, view here.
A topline summary of key dates is below:
Timeline
• 23 November 2021 – Lower XVs entry criteria published on England Rugby and via the Community Game Update (CGU)
• 29 November 2021 – Lower XVs expression of interest form emailed to clubs
• 17 January 2022 – Deadline for expressions of interest from Lower XV teams/clubs
• 19 January 2022 – Lower XVs expression of interest forwarded to CBs and divisional organising committees. Window opens for CBs who wish to consult with their clubs (closing on 18 February) about disapplying the national policy of Lower XV teams being eligible to join RFU Leagues in favour of them playing in local CB/Merit Leagues
• 28 February – 28 March 2022 – Clubs to submit Lower XVs final entry request. Clubs are informed if they have been successful by a date to be determined
• W/c 15/16 June Fixtures release
If you have any further questions, please contact Competitions-Development@RFU.com