The Welsh Rugby Union will introduce a fresh mini rugby trial next season that will involve a two-month winter break.
Last season, a WRU trial involving around 60 clubs saw mini rugby played in the summer months to make the most of some favourable weather.
After taking on board the feedback from that trial, the Union have brought in a revamped 'seasonal repositioning' for u7s to u11s age groups in the 2019/2020 season.
So far, more than 80 clubs have stepped forward for the new structure (more clubs can get involved by emailing participation@wru.wales) that will see the season run in five blocks.
As is tradition, the rugby season will kick off in September and run through November.
Then block two will see teams take a two-month break, avoiding the worst of the weather.
In February, block three and the traditional rugby season kicks back in and fixtures will be played through April.
Block four sees the season extended through the months of May, June and July, when teams can take care of the lighter evenings, with the option to play games midweek if desired.
The WRU say this has been done in collaboration with other sports and events to maximise engagement.
Then block five involves taking August off, giving families the chance to go away in the school holidays.
“We have a flexible approach to growing the game for all and we are very open to trying new formats and innovative ways to engage with players, their families and vitally our important volunteers in what is a challenging time for all sports," said WRU Community Director Geraint John.
“We have listened to those who participated in last summer’s mini-rugby trial, along with other clubs and interested parties. Some of the key benefits experienced by players and coaches last year included greater enjoyment and better skill development from participating in rugby activities in better weather and families also felt more engaged in the rugby environment. However, we acknowledge the need for a break for all concerned during the summer holidays.
“We have worked with pitch experts and the advice is that a winter break when there is little or no growth could help sustain pitches for year-round use.”
Clubs registered for next season’s trial region by region...
Cardiff Blues: Barry, Beddau, Caerau Ely, Cowbridge, Fairwater, Gilfach Goch, Llantrisant, Llantwit Major, Old Illtydians, Pontypridd, Rhiwbina, Rhydyfelin, Taffs Well, Treherbert, Whitchurch, Ystrad Rhondda
Dragons: Abertillery, Bargoed, Caerleon, Machen, Newbridge, New Panteg, Rhymney
Ospreys: Aberavon Quins, Birchgrove, Bonymaen, Bridgend Sports, Bryncethin, Cefn Cribbwr, Dulais Valley, Kenfig Hill, Maesteg Celtic, Maesteg Quins, Mumbles, Neath Athletic, Pencoed, Penlan, Pontardawe, Pyle, Swansea Uplands, Tondu, Ystalyfera
North Wales: Abergele, Bala, COBRA, Colwyn Bay, Denbigh, Glyn Ceiriog, Llandudno, Mold, Newtown, Rhos, Rhyl, Ruthin, Shotton, Welshpool, Wrexham
Scarlets: Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Ammanford, Amman United, Cardigan, Cefneithin, Crymych, Lampeter, Laugharne, Llandeilo, Llandovery, Llandybie, Llanelli Wanderers, Llangwm, Nantgaredig, Newcastle Emlyn, New Dock Stars, Neyland, Pantyffynon, Penybanc, Pontyberem, St clears, St David’s, Trimsaran, Tycroes,
