By MARK CASHMAN

Rugby in the Penrith district will have a major presence in 2021 after the Sydney Rugby Union board unanimously agreed to the Emus’ continued presence in the Shute Shield at a meeting on Wednesday night.

The SRU’s club presidents and board gave the green light to Penrith to play in the competition next season after they were brought into mix along with the Hunter Wildfires at short notice earlier this year.

That was in and around the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown and the club has made significant progress under head coach John Muggleton and his team.

They are yet to get a win in 2020 but have been relatively competitive in each of their 10 outings so far and have been able to field all the teams required by the SRU.

The losing margin has been reduced significantly and the club’s disciplinary record has improved markedly.

The Wildfires are probably further down the track to being competitive at Shute Shield level but Muggleton has them playing a style of footy that suits their personnel and there have been some wraps for their No.10 Dean Blore.

 The intent is to have the Wildfires as part of the 2021 competition but that will depend on them agreeing to throw their hat in the ring and being able to honour the new participation agreement that is being prepared.

The participation agreement revolves around being able to field three grade sides and two colts teams as well as stronger community support.

SRU president Phil Parsons welcomed the continued presence of the Emus next season.

“We are expecting Penrith to be bigger, better and stronger next season,” Parsons said.

“Their coach John Muggleton only had seven weeks to bring the whole thing together and there have been significant gains on and off the field.

“Our intent is to grow the competition but at the same time drag the standard of the bottom teams up. That I think is happening as there have been a lot more competitive games amongst the bottom four clubs.”

The Penrith club said in a statement: “The Penrith Board extends its appreciation to all those who have assisted in our return to Shute Shield.

“Our credit goes to our head coach John Muggleton and his team for pulling together a competitive side this season. 

“We thank our players for being patient with us and extend thanks to our players’ families and all our supporters for being faithful.

“We must also thank Penrith City council, in particular, Cnr John Thain who has represented us on many occasions. 

“Last, but not least, to our sponsors – we cannot thank you enough for standing by Penrith Rugby.”

IMAGE: PENRITH EMUS