How the northern rugby landscape will look next season will become clearer on Sunday when Central North clubs vote whether or not to proceed with the proposed integrated competition with New England for 2018 and 2019.
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They have been mulling over the various models that were presented to them by the working party established after both zones at their respective agm’s voted to explore the idea of a joint competition.
The concept is nothing new, with several unsuccessful attempts over the years.
Back in 2004, New England approached Central North but that was rejected.
It was back on the table again in 2005 when the NSW Country Rugby Union endorsed an overhaul that would see the two zones join forces. But it was shelved.
Most recently in 2015 there were talks between the two zones but they eventuated to nothing when the New England clubs voted not to continue discussions about a joint competition for what would have been this season.
Central North president Tony Byrnes said on Friday he doesn’t know what way it is going to go on Sunday but would like to “see it get over the line”. He has made no secret that he believes it would be for the betterment of the game in the region.
“It presents in my mind a greater critical mass in our area,” Byrnes said.
Presently, as he put it, Central North probably has the breadth and New England the depth.
As per the zone constitution the proposal needs two-thirds majority support.
The New England clubs then also have to vote, which they will do on Tuesday.
Should the proposal not pass on Sunday, the Central North competition revert back to a 10 team, two round structure.
“At the agm there was a move to continue with the two tier system but that was defeated,” Byrnes said.
“By default it goes back to what’s in the constitution.”
Seven different options were circulated to the clubs. They included a conference structure with seven teams in each, and a straight 14 team competition. Under that structure the teams would play one full round after which they would split into a top eight and bottom six.
There will be an opportunity on Sunday for further discussion before the proposal goes to the vote.
“Before the vote we’ll have a forum where they can bang away at us, and ask questions,” Byrnes said.
