In 2003 the New Zealand Rugby Union committed funds to trial the introduction of 40 Rugby Administrators in Secondary Schools. This was in response to the drop-off in playing numbers in rugby in the 14-19 year old age group. The model was consistent with the Sport Fit Co-Ordinator roles which were introduced to secondary schools approximately 10 years ago.

The pilot projects in terms of Taranaki were held at Spotswood College and Stratford High School in 2003. Both were an undoubted success and contributed vastly to increasing the numbers of players and coaches involved and a greater awareness and enjoyment of the game at these schools.

There are now 10 Rugby Administrators in Schools (RAIS) positions in Taranaki Secondary Schools. Each part time position is funded jointly by NZRU and TRFU. These roles have responsibility in the following areas:

• Growing the numbers playing the game
  
• Rugby Administration and Player Registration
  
• Coach Recruitment and Injury Prevention Course Attendance
  
• Player Development in conjunction with TRFU Rugby Development Officers
  
• Providing a development plan for rugby in the school