There are some concerning statistics around non-fulfilment of fixtures and retention of youth players. These statistics along with societal changes and the need for information have created a need to conduct the survey.

The survey is representative of the adult male playing population and after examining the findings in relation to player profile, participation, and structure preferences, has made the following conclusions. The survey has established that the 76% of players are aged under 35 years old and that retaining 18-year-old players is a key target. While players are generally larger than the average man, size does not seem to restrict participation at club level.

State schools provide the vast majority of players but remain a key target due to the scope for increasing numbers and the proportion of their representation. The majority of players will start playing before they are 12 years old and expect to play until they are 35 (although they start to think of stopping around 26).

This is probably a reasonable life expectancy for playing; keeping players, at the end of their playing career, involved in other rugby roles is an area to be targeted. The majority of respondents are playing in the reserve and regional leagues.

Players from the higher leagues are more likely to be younger/heavier and have an higher chance of being from an independent school than those in the lower leagues. The focus should be around the reserve and regional leagues as this is the largest area and where most non-fulfilment issues are.

The main reasons for participation are enjoyment, fitness, competition, social, and loyalty; injury and lack of time are the factors most likely to prevent participation. Developing convenient enjoyable, social and competitive rugby product (both contact and non-contact) has the best chance of keeping players. Altering the playing structure may help make it more convenient and appealing. 75% wish to see some move to play the game in better weather (with most preferring a winter break). Fewer cancellations due to the weather should enable the season to be played in a similar time frame, although there may be support for shortening the duration.

There is little support for additional grades other than by those that are most effected; this may be worth considering once stronger numbers mean that these players are not relied upon by clubs.

To summarise and make some recommendations:

• Players transitioning into adult rugby are a key target, especially those from state schools.
• Players at the end of their playing career should be signposted and supported into other roles
• The seasons structure should be amended to play in the better weather and make more convenient
• Changes/initiatives should focus on reserve and regional level
• Once club playing numbers/fixture fulfilments are stronger additional grades may be valuable
• Further research in this area with other groups and in more focus in depth manner is required