It was announced last week that the Blowes Clothing Cup will be split into two tiers with six teams each; clubs in the top tier will be required to field first, second and colts grades, with third grade optional; while the second tier will require just first and second grade sides.

The GrainCorp Cups will be reduced from the three pools – north, central and south – to northern and southern conferences.

Mudgee Rugby club president Greg Bartrim said, “our view on the matter was ‘what’s best for rugby and to grow the game’”.

“The disparity we’ve seen in the scorelines in a lot of games - not only against Mudgee but a lot of towns that are in a similar situation - was becoming apparent that there was too big of a gap,” he said.

“And in an environment where the sport’s participation was getting less and less, we – and other clubs – thought that continuing down this road wasn’t what’s best for the sport.

“We thought that a comp set up for two teams would allow clubs to grow to the point where they can get themselves in line to step back into the top competition.

“Currently there’s Graincorp Cup where you need one team or Blowes Cup with a minimum of three and for clubs to grow from one team to three is near impossible - there needs to be a another step.

“Having a two team comp will certainly be a positive thing, it will provide for some positive rugby and provide a lot of enjoyment for players who haven’t been enjoying their rugby.”

Although the second tier doesn’t include a colts grade as such, Bartrim believes young players would thrive in the second grade of the second tier.

Which also enables them to learn from playing alongside more experienced players.

“Your second team in the Tier Two competition is a perfect environment for colts to progress through,” he said.

“Because the level of competition is not as stiff or as fast if you compare it to a standard colts game.

“They’ll be playing alongside older guys that will guide them into their senior footy.

“Yes, they’ll be up against some older guys who might have a few tricks up their sleeves but once the ball gets out past the half-back to a younger backline it would be very entertaining.”

The draws for the new season, and where each club fits into the restructure, will be released before the CWRU annual general meeting on November 12.