PDG Programme

PDG General Information 2024-25

CLICK HERE to view our PDG General Information booklet.

Player Development Group - Background

Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy is part of the RFU part funded National Academy regional organisation. The Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy boundaries include Devon and Cornwall. 

Identification and development programmes have been delivered in the two counties for many years through the DPP (Developing Player Programme). This has been part funded by the RFU. Prior to that, the RFU Schools of Rugby delivered a similar county style programme and was funded independently. 

2 years ago saw the RFU change the delivery model and the Academy take responsibility for a county style programme, where over 600 players were provided with a development programme based over 7 sites in the region, by over 36 volunteer coaches. 

The actual cost was significantly greater than the monies allocated by the RFU and the shortfall was absorbed by the Exeter Chiefs and the Academy. 

Whilst the fantastic and valuable work carried out in this programme, the need for Exeter Chiefs to produce homegrown players has increased more so than ever due to further funding changes by the RFU.

The new licence agreement by the PGB (Professional Game Board) yet again sees a change in funding streams allocated. The immediate changes include:

• DPP Funding from CGB (Community Game Board) will be repurposed. 
• PDG to replace DPP (funded through PGB).
• Pathway to comprise Player Development Groups from U15-U18 in two phases; 
  • U15 and U16 - Foundation 
  • U17 and U18 - Development
• Regional Academy activity to begin at U15 (Phase 1 - Foundation).
• Regional U15/U16 hubs (replacing DPP) situated around PDG satellites.
• Integrated with elite coach development strategy (coaching pathway).

PDG - Nomination / Selection Process

Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy will now run a significantly different U15 Foundation programme. There will be significantly reduced numbers but outcomes of player production will increase.

Clubs will be contacted at the start of the 2025-26 season via email by the Foundation Phase Manager to nominate players to enter the initial trial process.

It is reminded that players can enter the pathway at any time and at no stage is the door closed. Staff will increase the viewing programmes in clubs and schools. 

Nominated players will undertake a unit-based assessment and from there, selected players will then be invited to a game based assessment. Following on from that, selected players will start the programme in February.

Once the player has completed the U15 PDG Foundation year, re-selection will take place for those going into the U16 programme.