Yorkshire RFU

Yorkshire PDG U16 Girls PDG Nominations are now open.

All players that will be in the U16 age group for the 25/26 season are eligible to self nominate.

? Key Programme Changes for 2025/26

Starting this season, we are moving to a single Yorkshire centre, with the following structure:
- One central group of up to 35 players, providing consistent delivery and a stronger development environment.
- Continued player-centred focus, with an emphasis on challenging players to push their boundaries and explore their potential.
- A separate emerging players group (10–15 players) who will remain in their own environments and receive monthly support (either face-to-face or online). These players will be invited to re-trial at the designated re-entry point.
- Emphasis on coach development alongside player growth.
- A consistent focus on core skills: catch/pass, ball carry, tackle, and athleticism.

? Why We’re Evolving the Format

This updated format has been shaped by several key factors following our 24/25 season review:
- Listening to feedback from players, parents, and coaches and having continuously evolved over the last three years.
- Addressing challenges from having a larger PDG than other regions, which impacts pathway progression
- Making a more efficient and effective use of coaching and facility resources
- Improving the player experience through increased differentiation, support, and consistency
- Strengthening the connection between clubs and the pathway
- Helping everyone involved better understand the purpose and goals of the PDG programme

? Important Next Steps – Self Nomination Required for ALL PLAYERS
Please complete the nomination form via:
Yorkshire Girls U16s PDG 2025-26 Self Nomination Form
? Deadline: Monday 11th August 2025 @ 5pm

Only players who have completed the self-nomination process will be considered for assessment.
Attached you will find the updated assessment criteria to help you understand what we’re looking for and how we evaluate players.

? Optional Welcome Session – Save the Date
We’re also running an informal “Get to Know the Pathway” session for interested players:
? Sunday 20th July 2025
? Keighley RUFC
⏰ Time: TBC

This is a great opportunity for players (especially new or unsure ones) to understand the pathway, meet the coaches, and ask questions in a relaxed and supportive environment.