The scheme rewards clubs and schools that have contributed to the development of players who have gone on to make a significant impact at provincial level. Payments are made to organisations involved in a player's development pathway before the age of 18, ensuring that the grassroots and age-grade game is recognised for its contribution to the success of professional rugby in Ireland.
The distribution recognises more than 40 professional players and will see payments made to a significant number of clubs and schools across all four provinces. The payments relate to player development contributions made over the three seasons from 2023/24 to 2025/26, recognising the important role clubs and schools have played in the pathway of players progressing to the professional game.
Kevin Beggs, IRFU Competitions Manager says: "This programme recognises schools and clubs who contribute to the age-grade development of professional players for the Irish provinces and the national team.
Beggs continues: The programme is weighted towards recognising and rewarding clubs and schools for the development of a player before their 18th birthday."
Colin McEntee, Director of Rugby Development, added:
"Clubs and schools play a hugely important role in developing the players who ultimately go on to represent our provinces and Ireland. This payment is an important recognition of the time, expertise and commitment invested in those players throughout their development.
The Player Development Reward Scheme remains an important part of the IRFU's commitment to recognising the contribution made by clubs, schools, coaches and volunteers in nurturing future professional and international players across the island.