Update below from Bobby Frazer (Chair, SCOG)
At the AGM last November I indicated that the Standing Committee on Governance (SCOG) was continuing with its work and deliberations into the make-up and future of the Club Rugby Board (CRB) which replaced the Council after the 2022 AGM.
Whilst we had hoped to be able to report sooner I can now advise that SCOG’s report has now been finalised and approved by the SRU Board as well as the CRB and the Rugby Development Department (RDD). A copy of the executive summary can eb found below for your information.
The report focusses on the make-up of the CRB and whether the current model based primarily on men’s club rugby league positions is best aligned with the domestic game as a whole.
SCOG considered five different options as set out in the report which ranged from retaining the status quo through to a much more streamlined executive styled board charged with running the club game.
Having considered the options it has been agreed between the above parties that they will work towards transitioning CRB representation from its current model to one that is more regionally based and as set out in options (iii) and (iv). SCOG believes this will align with the strategic changes being made at RDD as well as ensuring all aspects of club rugby, from juniors to seniors, both male and female, are actively considered in all future decisions.
SCOG has made certain other recommendations within its report, including the setting-up of four separate sub-committees dedicated to considering issues of finance, strategy, rugby matters generally as well as those directly involved in running the club game at all levels across the country.
In addition, SCOG has looked at a number of other matters relating to the structure and operation of the CRB including chairing, potential changes to the election rules, and a range of ideas aimed at improving decision-making and communication generally.
The immediate plan is that a new committee will now be formed, comprising members of SCOG, CRB, RDD and the SRU Board, to look at the detail involved in these proposals, with a view to any agreed changes, with appropriate club approval, taking place prior to season 2026/27.
I would like to thank everyone who has taken part in assisting in the preparation of this report, including the clubs, as the main stakeholders who, along with many individuals, have responded so positively and constructively to the consultation process.
A copy of the full report will be published on the SRU website. SCOG will continue to welcome all external thoughts and comments to assist in this next stage.
Bobby Frazer
Chair, SCOG
Executive Summary – SCOG Update
Full Report – SCOG Update
