All teams need to be better resourced. According to our subjects, looking over at the First XV with their flash training tops, sponsored gear bags, new balls and time on the scrum machine, made them feel a bit left out. The difference between what the top-level lads have, compared with the lower grades is too big.
They aren’t begrudging the boys at a higher level, but they do feel as though they are left with the worst gear and the worst coaches.
They want more opportunities to play. For example, there are a whole bunch of players out there keen to go to some tournaments. But only the stars get picked to go, every time.
Other points included getting more game time - they don’t want to be the best touch judge, water boy or seat warmer - they want to play.
They want more grade options whether it is to do with weight, age or ability. This of course is when things get a little complex, because grades are determined on a variety of factors, such as size of schools, population, availability of players and fields to name a few.
More social grades are also something many of our teens mentioned.
Many of these points are difficult or near impossible to address, with everyone operating on limited resources and personnel - but interesting to keep in mind all the same.
