The College Rugby Association of America looks to continues to opportunities player development with the launch of the inaugural East Coast Development XVs (ECDC XVS).

The competition creates a developmental pathway for student-athletes to play meaningful minutes while strengthening ties between D1A and D1AA programs. The ECDC XVS emerges as a solution to two pressing challenges in collegiate rugby: the need for more developmental opportunities for underclassmen on D1A teams and the desire among D1AA programs for a pathway to compete at the highest levels. With 10 institutions across two pools, the competition will provide valuable opportunities to compete and foster growth for the participating student-athletes.

“A number of groups have expressed interest in offering additional playing opportunities for their reserve and younger players,” said Scott Zavrel, CRAA Men’s D1A Commissioner. “The developmental experience is beneficial to them individually and enhances the depth of their
respective club.”

The ECDC XVS will feature two pools of five teams playing a four-match round-robin with the pool winners meeting in a cup final. The participating teams represent a mix of D1AA programs and 2nd XV squads from established D1A teams.

The ECDC XVS affirms the commitment of CRAA to creating more opportunities for teams to play competitive matches. “It is integral that we create regional opportunities for teams to play more frequently,” added CRAA Men’s Commissioner, Paul Santinelli. “Hybrid competitions that allow D1A
and D1AA teams to play more games creates increased opportunities for student-athletes.”