RNRU Academy XV
The primary purpose of the Royal Navy Rugby Union Academy XV is to bridge the gap of playing competitive rugby for those regional players who have clearly displayed a rugby talent, but have not been selected for the Senior XV Inter Service training camp. These players need to be playing at a level of rugby equal to or above that required to be selected for their region teams. This process allows for their continued development which aligns with the RFU player pathway model for the better players to be monitored, with the potential of being better placed for selection in the following year’s representative sides.
The secondary purpose is to enable those players who have been selected for the Senior XV Inter Service training camp, but remain on the fringes of this squad to get valuable game time at a good level of rugby. This allows for 4-5 uncapped players per game to be selected, but in exceptional circumstances a capped player being selected to aid in his recovery from long-term injury, or due to operational commitment over the Community Season and unable to gain quality game time to aid in match fitness.
Having this approach of interaction between Academy XV and Senior XV players allows the younger unselected players to rub shoulders with elements of the current Inter Service squad. This has a positive influence in aiding with their increased confidence and building on a realisation that they have the same potential opportunities to represent the RNRU at Inter Service. When using similar playing strategies this will also allow for a seamless transition both up and down to aid in team cohesion and adaptability.
