Partnerships is a key word in East Yorkshire, with clubs, the RFU and local authorities working together to support the development of youth rugby.

Key local clubs such as Hull Ionians, Malton, Hull and Driffield have been working with the RDO to appoint a number of youth development officers. With the support of the other clubs in each area of the district, a comprehensive programme has been developed which is targeted at the 13-19 age banding.

The initiatives, also supported by Sportsmatch, have resulted in the successful organisation of two floodlit leagues, rugby being introduced into new areas and many new teenage teams being established.

Pictured from left to right are:
C Gillingwater (RFUW); G Hope (Hull Ionians);
M Hart (East Yorks); J Mckay (Malton);
G Bone (Hull Ionians); M David (Hull);
S Watson (Yorks RFU); R Brierley (RDO);
G Martinson (Hull); K Dench (Driffield).