Competitions
(see also: Tooheys New Cup, Shute Shield) The sydney first grade competition is called the shute shield and is contested between 12 teams. The Tooheys New Cup, which was the other first grade competition, ceased to exist in 2007.
The Shute Shield was presented to NSWRU in 1923, by the Sydney University Football Club for the 1st Grade Premiership Competition. The Shield is named in honour of the late Robert Elliott Shute, who died while playing for NSW against The Rest on 6 June 1922.
In addition to the two 1st Grade Competitions (The Tooheys New Cup & the Shute Shield) there is also a Colts Competition under the top 2 Competitions. Each Grade Club except for the Central Coast enter a Team in the 3 Colts Competitions: 1st Grade, 2nd Grade & the Under 19s League. These are "Step Up Leagues" which aim to prepare up & coming players from Suburban & District Rugby to get a taste of Top Level Rugby Union in New South Wales.
Read more about this topic: Rugby Union In New South Wales