WINNINGTON Park Rugby Club chiefs say they see a bright future for the club thanks to the youth system in place.

Although the first XV survived a North Two West relegation battle this season, many youngsters gained experience that will be invaluable in years to come.

And there are many more looking to make the same journey.

Sadly, for some of the rising talents, the coronavirus pandemic that brought a premature halt to the season also robbed them of appearances in finals they had worked so hard to reach.

All at the club support and accept the decision made by the RFU though as government guidelines were followed in the fight to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Park’s under 15s ,16s and 17s had all reached the county cup bowl finals, which were scheduled to be played at the end of April but will no longer take place.

Club bosses say reaching the finals is a fine tribute to the efforts of the players involved, the excellent coaching available to all teams and the first-class facilities provided at Burrows Hill.

On top of that, the under 17s also finished in a creditable second place in the Halbro Colts League C - the first year of league fixtures for the junior teams.

This campaign has seen the transition of last season’s under 18s team into the senior squad.

Ten of last season’s under 18s have represented the first XV with several cementing places.

Three more of last year’s senior colts played regularly for the second and third teams within the senior section.

Having this many players feature in senior rugby from one age group is considered a huge boost for the club and the top brass expect this to continue with Park having a junior team at every age group from under sixes to under 18s.

Club president Brian Concannon said: “The proudest moment for me, as president of this great club, is to see our players make the transition from our junior teams into senior rugby.

“It is the culmination of years of hard work by all involved.

“When one of these youngsters makes their first-team debut it is a very special day for me, the club and most importantly the player.”

Despite the success of their junior teams, Park are always looking for additional players to join up with their teams.

The club cater for boys and girls of all ages.

Although clubs are uncertain when the new season will start due to the Covid-19 crisis, Park are making preparations for another great season.

Anyone interested in getting involved can visit the club website wprfc.com for more details or contact Dave Allcock on 077932 48310.