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RDC Annual Report - 2004/05
Rugby Development Committee Annual Report Season 2004/2005
The Rugby Development Committee (RDC) is in the course of becoming the Rugby Development Partnership (RDP) incorporating the RFU, the Lancashire Constituent Body (CB) and other stakeholders. The Debate is ongoing as to changes to the County Constitution which might be required.
During the period under review, the RDC planned and co-ordinated an annual rugby development programme for the CB for the 7-24 age group and agreed budgets for this programme. The RDC was aided in this task by the Schools, Colts & Mini Junior Sections and the Academy; details of the development programme are contained in the relevant Section Annual Reports. The development programme also included co-ordinating the Regional Rugby Development Manager's (RRDM) work programme, full details of which can be found in the RRDM's Annual Report.
The RDC co-ordinated a potential elite player development programme in conjunction with the Academy, Elite Player Development Centres and Sale Sharks. County Age Grade Teams were organised and coaches and managers were appointed. Fitness testing was arranged for Age Grade Teams and Development Squads, and integrated player development and playing programmes were put in place. A player tracking system is being developed.
A funding bid for the 16-24 Age Group was successful and thanks to the efforts of J. Livesey, Rugby Union Student Liaison Officer (RUSLO), approximately £8,500 became available for a joint programme with Cheshire. The programme is aimed at increasing participation in playing, refereeing, coaching and administering rugby throughout the further education sector. There will be follow through to encourage contacts with and continuation into club rugby. This programme is being assisted by administration and logistic support from the Army.
The development of Women and Girls Rugby was supported. A tri-County Championship was approved - this turned out to be a great success and is expected to become an annual event.
A North West Rugby Conference was held. The theme of the conference was Partnership Working; participants included the RFU, Lancashire and Cheshire RDCs, Sport England, County Sport Partnerships, Education Development personnel, Sale Sharks and the Academy. A vote of thanks has been recorded for the work of the RRDM and his staff and in particular for the efforts of Stuart Urquhart (RDO). As a result of this conference the RDC is better placed to bring other partners and agencies together to ensure delivery of the CB Development Plan. A greater understanding was reached of the role of partner agencies and other stakeholders in the co-ordination of programmes on a regional and national basis.
A replacement CB Child Protection Officer was appointed to the post made vacant by retirement of the previous incumbent.
T. Fitzgerald
RDC Hon. Secretary
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