Following a review of representative rugby earlier this year, the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union has decided to put in place a meaningful representative program for Bay of Plenty under 14 and 15 players.

In recent years, the two age groups have focused on a development camp for each age group, with a solitary game against their Waikato counterparts.

Considerable debate and discussion at the review resulted in a consensus that the two age groups are a crucial time for their rugby development.

'It's quite a watershed age where players are beginning to decide what sport that they want to commit to,” says Steamers head coach Kevin Schuler.

'It's crucial we are providing the aspirational opportunities, which will motivate players to work hard to improve their skills, understanding and enjoyment of the game. This initiative also helps to develop another group of coaches and managers, who are equally as important, to make sure that the players enjoy the experience and learn.”

Further discussions resulted in a unique partnership being put in place, whereby Bay of Plenty secondary schools, the three Bay sub-unions and the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union will join forces to implement the under 14 and 15 representative program.

It's hoped that the participation of three sub-union teams in the representative program will produce a large base of talent for the future.

Discussions with unions within the Chiefs franchise area resulted in under 14 and 15 competitions being put in place for the 2012 season.

The two short, sharp mid-North Island age group competitions will be played during late August and September, culminating with a finals day for both age groups on Saturday, September 29.

A team apiece from Thames Valley and King Country will be joined by the Bay of Plenty representatives and four regional Waikato sides.

The Waikato teams have returned to former sub-union regions for the new competition.

Harlequins will be drawn from the Hamilton region, South Waikato youngsters will play under the Tritons banner, with the Corinthians selected from Matamata and Morrinsville.

Coaching positions are currently being advertised and will be confirmed shortly.

Chiefs under 15 competition format:

Pool A: Western BOP, King Country, Harlequins (Hamilton) White, Tritons (South Waikato), King Country.

Pool B: Eastern BOP, Central BOP, Harlequins Black, Corinthians (Matamata, Morrinsville).

Chiefs under 14 competition format:

Pool A (Western BOP, Eastern BOP, Harlequins White, Tritons, King Country.

Pool B: Central BOP, Harlequins Black, Corinthians, Thames Valley.