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There is a debate taking place at the momenr about the future of clubs and teams in the Shute Shield. Let’s face it, Penrith do not even run the required three grades of Colts.
Last weekend, in the local derby round which was promoted in the papers, Southern Districts played Sydney University. In 1st grade, Sydney University won 40 to nil; second grade, Sydney University won 71-14; 3rd grade Sydney University won 71-5; 4th grade Sydney University won 33-10; and in First Grade Colts Sydney University won 102-0.
Proposals to cut four teams have been put forward. Some have suggested to cut the Colts or just have one elite Colts competition. Other have argued to revamp the Subbies and transfer into them third and fourth grade.
I think some of the best first division Subbies teams would already go close to beating many.
This is not doomsday stuff, but we are the only code that permits the stronger to get stronger with no equalisation programme, salary cap, residential qualification, or targeted assistance to those most in need.
Do we have enough resources for two teams on the peninsular at the premier level?
If league has too many teams in the South, do not look at Sydney’s East for rugby, which has, by the way, the lowest demographic of children per head of population.
I am a firm believer that we target whatever quality coaching we have got to a single premier Colts competition with paid assistance to quality coaches for the Peninsular, West, and South.
We cannot isolate ourselves from the most populous parts of Sydney.
Quality juniors always gravitate towards good coaching, so we must supply this to District based teams.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.