TOTNES will be putting out a full set of teams at every age group this weekend – from U7s right up to adults.

Ten years ago Totnes only operated a Chiefs XV and a 2nd XV with not so much as a colts' team to support them.

The catalyst for the birth of youth rugby at Borough Park was the arrival of New Zealander Peter Beard, who had three strapping sons all eager to play.

The first minis teams started in 2001, Beard having been installed as youth chairman and by 2005 there were age-group teams all the way up to U16s.

Along the way Totnes absorbed the rump of an U16 team from Torquay, which went on to win the Fishermen's Cup in 2004.

Sadly, the Fishermen's Cup winners didn't stay together as a team to go into colts, although several members of the side are still with the club. Rhys Smith and Steve Blackie are 1st XV regulars while James Ruddock has featured, as has Pepe Moore.

Others, like flank forward Ben Sangchi, are now playing elsewhere, in his case at Newton Abbot.

There were occasional set backs when age-groups were dropped for a season due to lack of numbers. Last season there were no U16s at the club.

However, the general trend has always been positive and the goal of fielding a colts team was achieved last season. Totnes had not put out a colts side since the mid 1990s.

Club captain Mark Hooper was a member of the last colts side fielded by Totnes – and virtually the only survivor still playing regularly.

Hooper said for clubs to thrive they need players coming through and Totnes were already seeing the benefits of a proper production line.

"You have to give Pete Beard a lot of the credit as without his drive and enthusiasm at the start we would never have started mini rugby," said Hooper.

"We are already seeing players in the 1st XV who played in our youth sides – and there are more in the pipeline. Will Hodgson, Josh Green and Ewan Beard are all going to be 1st XV players of the future.

"There was a time not long ago when we struggled to get 15 on the field for the 2nd XV. Not any more. Our 2nd XV is strong in numbers now, and that helps support the 1st XV.

"Totnes have been pretty successful over the past few seasons, winning two promotions to get up to the Cornwall & Devon Division.

"To stay successful it is important we keep producing our own players. That's why this weekend is a bit of a landmark in the club's history."

TOTNES are away to Falmouth this Saturday and will have space on the team coach for supporters. Contact the club (01803 867796) to book a seat.