The Under-15s Emerging Player Programme (EPP) is being rolled out later this month for the second season at five centres by Dragons RFC – and players can register now.
The EPP was introduced throughout Wales in each region; Dragons, Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys and Scarlets – for the first-time last season, as part of the WRU’s reformed pathway to support in the development of more and better players in Wales.
The principle of the EPP programme is to enhance individual player development at Under 15 age group, in a locally based group setting. This will allow players a longer period to explore their potential in high quality environments with a strong regional connection.
Dragons RFC will this season run five EPPs from the week commencing September 30.
- Rhymney Valley EPP (Bedwas Comprehensive School)
- Islwyn EPP (Blackwood Comprehensive School)
- Blaenau Gwent EPP (Brynmawr Comprehensive School)
- Pontypool EPP (West Monmouth Comprehensive)
- Newport EPP (Newport High School)
Lewis Roberts, Academy Manager at Dragons RFC, said: “We enjoyed a hugely successful launch season with the five new EPP centres in our region and we are encouraging prospective players to once again register.
“The changes introduced last season allowed players a longer period to explore their potential in high quality environments with a strong regional connection. We are now keen to see our next new intake register and join this vitally important phase of the player pathway in the Dragons region.”
Players will take part in sixteen sessions and have four playing opportunities across four core blocks (two pre and two post-Christmas). Each block will consist of four training weeks and conclude with a playing opportunity in week five before having time off/ away from the programme. This blocked approach and limited playing opportunities in year 1/ U15s allows players to continue to train and play with schools and clubs alongside the EPP provision.
Players interested in EPP registration for the 2024/25 season in the Dragons region can register HERE
The changes introduced last season allowed players a longer period to explore their potential in high quality environments with a strong regional connection. We are now keen to see our next new intake register and join this vitally important phase of the player pathway in the Dragons region...
