DMP Sharks submitted an Expression of Interest to tender for a place in the next cycle of the Premier 15s in August 2022, following the incredible support received by the local community and key partners which allowed the team to compete in the 2022/23 season. The Sharks were then invited to make a formal tender bid, based on an updated set of Minimum Operating Standards (MOS) issued by the RFU. After reviewing the updated MOS, the Sharks Management Group (SMG) made the decision to not submit a formal tender bid for a place in the next cycle of the competition.

This decision was taken due to a number of factors, including a vast increase in the level of investment required to compete in the league going forward. It was agreed that the significant financial commitment required was unsustainable in both the short and long term, particularly for a community rugby club.

DMP Sharks will continue to work tirelessly to protect and grow the women’s game in the North East and ensure a pathway for the next generation. The Sharks are in ongoing dialogue with the RFU to develop a competitive solution for next season and beyond. An update will be issued in due course.

A statement from the Sharks players added: “We would like to extend a huge thank you to all those supporters who made it possible for the squad to continue playing top level rugby in the 2022/23 season. Our goal remains to fight for elite competition in the North East and despite there being no representation for the area in the Premier 15s next season, we are hopeful that the future remains bright for the nurturing of the vast talent home to the region.”

“We still have a long campaign ahead of us and we are unyielding in our commitment and desire to keep the North East on the map and do you all proud. We will never give up and promise to keep battling to move forward and build the platform for the next generation.”