Munster U16 & U18 Clubs League Get Underway

The Munster Clubs at U16 and U18 levels begin their new competitions on the weekends of 19th and 26th September respectively.

The new provincial wide playing structure is an exciting initiative designed to improve the playing experience for the player and provide increased competition at many levels across the province.

The competition builds and expands on the success of the Pan Munster Clubs U16 and U18 Competitions over the last years.

This season’s competitions are divided into 2 main sections – a seeding structure in the first half of the season and a full competitive section in the New Year leading into finals that are scheduled for the weekend of 12th/13th March 2016.

The seeding will allow for the grouping of clubs who are at a similar stage of player development while providing a challenge to step up by playing in a wider and more diverse pool.

The competitive section of the competition will encompass Cup, Bowl and Plate competition based on the results of the seeding section.

It will bring teams that have not traditionally played against each other into competition throughout the season. In excess of 40 clubs and club amalgamations have signed up for both U16 and U18 competitions from all corners and regions of the province.

Chairman of the Munster Youth Committee, Tom McCoy said “this is a very exciting departure for Munster Club Age Grade Rugby. To have a playing structure that provides for up to 16 games in season plus local cups competition is aligned with the IRFU’s guidelines for player development. It is hoped that all clubs will actively support this new playing structure which will provide benefit to them into the future. We wish all players and clubs a successful and enjoyable season”

It is envisaged the new completion structure will continue to produce players like Dave Foley, James Cronin, Jack O Donoghue, Johnny Holland, Kevin O Byrne, Donnacha Ryan and John Madigan who all came through the club development pathway.

To view fixtures click here

Waterpark's Nick O'Donoghue lifts the U16 trophy at last season's final.