Why set up an under 23s? Hinckley, like most rugby clubs in the UK, has followed the trend of losing the majority of its 15-23 year old players. There has been many reasons put forward and there have been numerous RFU initiatives to plug this loss, however it is our belief that bridging the gap from junior rugby to senior rugby is too wide for the majority of individuals to do alone.

Hinckley are introducing an U23s to it structures this year and will also be looking to add an U20s in the near future. This will provide proper stepping stones for all youngsters to transition from junior to senior rugby where the development and integration into the senior squads can be managed to the benefit of all the players. It will also give U23 players the opportunity to be one step away from playing for the Hornets in National 2 North.

As indicated by Chairman John Tilley, "We have left too much to chance for many years. Young players need help retaining a love for rugby whilst they are going through a period of massive change during their lives. They need to be in environments they understand with clear points of contact from people who care about their development and a clear way forward for them to progress as individuals and groups. It can get a bit bewildering when coming out of a colts environment, with all the support that gives, into the senior structures where you can be on your own. Scott (Hamilton) has been keen to take the U23s under his coaching team's wing on Tuesday & Thursday, whilst retaining a management team of Neil Haagensen & Rich Masserella to oversee player wellbeing, team management and match day organisation to ensure the best possible support is in place. Scott will work with the team to ensure the best possible decisions concerning development and selection of U23 players are made."

We will be announcing fixtures in the near future however to new and existing players we are training Tuesday & Thursday and are open to anyone who fancies giving it a crack. You can just turn up or you can contact Neil Haagensen on 07921 055896 for more details.