A DRIVE to stop talented teenagers falling away from competitive rugby has led to the introduction of an Otliensians Colts side, which hopes to offer 16-18 year olds a pathway into the senior game from junior level.

A partnership has been created between Otley and Otliensians' rugby union sides, along with Prince Henry's school, and could see the emergence of new young stars in the area, like former Henry's pupil, and England scrum-half, Danny Care.

Ben Featherstone, an Otliensians club official, lamented previous mistakes, saying: "As two clubs, we've never really shared players and in a small town, trying to keep plenty of sides going with limited personnel has been difficult.

"A lot of the kids at Prince Henry's are playing good rugby, getting to 18 and dropping out of the game. There's been negotiations for months to make this a pathway to keep them involved.

"The long-term view is that those who are good enough will be able to make the step up to Otley and play in the National League if they wish."

Explaining the system, Featherstone said: "To start with it will just be one U18 Colts side but as the numbers go up, we'll hope to have U16 and U17 teams too.

"Otley Zebras will remain the way for junior kids to play rugby in the area."

Featherstone is enthusiastic about those leading the scheme, saying: "The Colts side is going to be led by the coaches from Otliensians and a couple of the players have done their coaching badges to help out.

"A lot of this is down to Chris Smith, who used to play for 'Ensians and he's the first team manager at Prince Henry's now. It was his idea to try and keep the youngsters involved."

Featherstone admitted that local pride was also behind the Colts scheme, saying: "We want to keep them playing at Otley, and not going up to West Park or Ilkley, before going on from there to play for England.

"We want to say that these lads stayed in Otley and were brought up here. If we can get another Danny Care coming through the ranks that would be brilliant!"

A welcome barbecue at Otliensians RUFC for prospective players will launch the side on Wednesday June 27 at 7:30pm.

There will also be games of Touch and Pass, and a presentation for players and parents with final details of next season's structure.

Any player who will be U16, U17 or U18 next season (2018-19) can come along and find out how they can be part of the youth side.

The club are hoping to see lots of prospective players at the welcome event, and are happy to answer any questions players or parents may have. Any queries should be sent to: ce.smith@princehenrys.co.uk.