U16s PDG
Girls’ U16s PDG in Devon
Three years ago, the first Developing Player Programme (DPP) for U16s girls was established across English counties, providing a structured pathway for young female rugby players. Unlike the boys’ programme, which is managed by Exeter Chiefs, the girls’ programme is organised by the County.
While similar in nature to traditional County representative squads, the key distinction is that this is a season-long development programme, rather than a competitive selection process.
Since 2022, the programme has been rebranded as part of England Rugby’s Player Development Group (PDG), with the U16s phase now known as the "Foundational Phase". Each County oversees its own programme, working with around 60 players per season. As players progress to U18s, they may be nominated for assessments for the next stage: the U18s PDG "Development Phase", which is a more selective squad of 30-35 players drawn from Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. This U18s pathway is managed directly by England Rugby and provides a highly competitive development opportunity.
What to Expect from the U16s PDG
- 12-14 high-quality training sessions throughout the season.
- Online theory lessons to enhance tactical understanding.
- 4 playing opportunitiesfocused on skill development and game awareness.
- Larger squad size (twice that of a typical County squad) to offer development opportunities to as many players as possible.
More Than Just Talent Selection
The core focus of the PDG is development. Selection is not solely based on ability but also on key attributes that indicate long-term potential, such as:
- A strong aptitude for rugby development
- Mental and physical resilience
- Coachability and eagerness to learn
- A positive team ethos and leadership qualities
Support the Future of Female Rugby
The future of female rugby in Devon is incredibly exciting, and we are always looking for additional support—whether through sponsorship, copywriting, social media management, physiotherapy, or other contributions. If you're passionate about helping grow the game and supporting young players, please get in touch with Sian at girlslead@devonrfu.com.