National Boys' U18s Cup Competition...

Dear Team Managers & Coaches.

As you are probably already aware the RFU will be running a National Boys' U18s Cup Competition.

The competition invites entries from the top 2 ranked U18s Teams in each of the relevant CB’s (Constituent Bodies – Counties). The competition intends to start with 128-sides with any extra Teams being drawn from the CBs in line with the number of players each CB has registered on GMS at the age group.

The competition is played as a straight knock out competition with no 2nd tier competition in place for those sides falling at the 1st hurdle.

Last season 9 Teams from the Halbro North West Colts league (HNWCL) applied to enter The National U18’s Cup. 2 of the 9 sides decided not to take up their place in the competition as, upon advice from the HNWCL Organising committee, they realised it would not be possible to play in the National Cup as well as meet their commitments to the NW Colts League, Colts League Cup, and County Cup Competitions.

Of the 7 sides that took part in the National Cup 3 were eliminated in the 1st round, 2 in the 2nd , 1 in the 3rd (Stockport going through as the away team in a 17-17 draw with Caldy). An excellent Stockport side made it through 2 more rounds to the semi-final, losing in a close game.

Some of the teams that did play had to give Walkovers to league opponents as postponements are only allowed in the HNWCL for bad weather / pitches reason.

All of the dates set for this season's RFU competition clash with League, League Cup and County Cup dates.

Contrary to what the RFU statement says in respect of the National Cup taking priority we would make it clear that The NW Colts League will not facilitate postponements for sides deciding to play their National Cup fixture at the expense of their League/League Cup fixture.

Your League Committee’s advice to those sides considering entering the National U18s Cup is to weigh up the situation fully and be clear that it will not be possible for sides that do decide to enter the National Competition to fulfil their League fixtures and may also compromise their participation in the League and County Cup Competitions.

Regards in Colts Rugby.
 
Chris Barrett - HonSec.
Halbro NW Colts League