OLD Otliensians' new approach to Colts rugby is paying off.

Like many clubs, Otliensians and Otley RUFC have struggled over the last few years to field several teams each week.

To stimulate the transition from junior to senior rugby, committee members at both clubs decided a collaborative approach would be more effective and starting last year, Otliensians Colts wore shirts featuring the logo of both clubs.

Colts' manager Chris Smith said: "Key people at both clubs wanted to provide young players in Otley a pathway from mini-rugby through to the senior game, either in the Yorkshire Divisions at Otliensians, the national leagues with Otley, or social rugby at either club. We feel the Colts side has been successful in its aim.”

Another fresh approach is the ‘half game rule’, where players from the whole squad are rotated, ensuring everybody gets a game.

In their first full season the Colts won 11 out of their 18 games and saw Colts captain, and top points scorer, Jake Bentley, being selected for Yorkshire Under-16s. Centre Josh Rudd-Watson was also selected for Yorkshire Under-18 Rugby League.

Registration for the 2019-20 Colts season will be held at Otiensians at 7pm on Friday, August 30. There will also be a game of ‘touch and pass’, followed by refreshments.

Colts are also welcome to join the regular club training on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Otliensians, commencing from 7pm.