<<

All the Mid and North rugby news

RGC WIN AWAY RESULTS FIXTURES PICTURES NEWS Youth v Colwyn Bay Youth

Saturday, 28 September 2013

Pictures kindly supplied by Rod Davies Ladies 51 v Ladies 12

Gary Editors: Gary Williams/Barry Williams Email: [email protected]

www.nwru.co.uk www.midwalesrugby.com

THE PONTYPOOL VIEW In what will be one of the toughest and most exciting fixture’s of the 2013/2014 SWALEC Championship season, tomorrow see’s Pontypool RFC take on the North Wales outfit of RGC 1404 RFC.

The Pooler squad that made the lengthy trip to North Wales this afternoon approaches the fixture with tangible confidence and enthusiasm, something that Pontypool RFC Head Coach has kept in clear perspective:

“A tally of 15 points from four games is pleasing and something we did not achieve last season until March,” said Hook. “This shows that progress is being made and there is an enthusiasm about Pontypool RFC that will enable us to keep pushing on and raise the bar.”

Despite the positive start to the season and the growing sense of enthusiasm displayed by all associated with the club, Hook accepts that continuous improvement is required to ensure that Pontypool RFC maintains its position in the top half of the table:

“One aspect we must improve on is our points against total and to tighten up our defence. We defended really well for 70 minutes of last week’s match but fell asleep in the last 10 to 15 minutes and gave Bonymaen two tries they shouldn’t have scored. The ruth- less edge is one we will be taking into tomorrow’s match.”

Focusing specifically on RGC 1404 RFC as an opponent, Hook acknowledges the challenges of facing a new opponent but is relishing the opportunity:

“Saturday will prove a big test against what is essentially an unknown side. We feel we have prepared well for this game and have a good idea about the way they play. There is no doubt our players and staff are hungry for more success and we will look to continue the good form we have developed in recent months.” Apart from being a great day out, we also had a “Sat Nav” mo- North Wales side triumph they strived to contain a series ment. Check the pics below. 56-10 at Blackwood of scrums close to their line. “Didn’t we have a lovely time the day we went to Blackwood!” To the delight of the small but RGC made it two wins out of noisy group of RGC support- You know the tune!! two on the road this season fol- ers who had made the journey lowing an eight-try victory over to Gwent, RGC scored their Well we did!!! What a day out. Met some some new friends, good a spirited Blackwood side who fourth try when Davies touched banter between us on the journey. kept competing right until the down for his second of the very end of the contest. match to wrap up their bonus AND THE RESULT!!!!!!! BLACKWOOD 10 (should really be 3 point. - pity we hadn’t videoed the most obvious air looping 10 metre From the outset it was clear knock on you will ever see in your life!! with about 10 mins to play) that the visiting pack had the The second half was in many - ref missed it though. edge over their hosts both ways a replica of the first, with in the tight and in the loose, RGC always looking dangerous RGC 56 YES FIFTY SIX - That’s a point for every 6 miles of the where the back row of Kelvin when having ball in hand and journey!! Davies, Huw Worthington and looking equally comfortable in James Grundy were outstand- defence when Blackwood were RGC were simply amazing, ranks amoung the best performances ing throughout. in possession. Further scores ever. came from replacement fly-half And it was from this forward Lewis Barker, Mike Jones Take a look at our Bridge of Sighs and you’ll know WHY we domination that the opening and Davies before Blackwood breathed a sigh of relief after we’d sucessfully “navigated” it. score came when a driving scored their only try. maul from a line-out wide on No turning points so a long reverse if we couldn’t make it. the right-hand side rumbled However it was RGC who had over to give skipper Davies the the final say when, with the Thank goodness for the “trial gates” installed at either end by the first of his three tries. RGC’s last play of the game, Barker local authority. Bridge width 2.1 metres - MININBUS WIDTH 2.0 second try, in contrast to its ran half the length of the field METRES PHEEEEWWW!!!!!!! DON’T TELL BRYN HE MIGHT first, came following a flowing to score his second and round NOT LET US HIRE FROM HIM AGAIN!!! backs move and ended with off what was undoubtedly the Tom Blackwell flying over just team’s strongest performance to the right-hand side of the of the season thus far. posts. Fly-half Rhodri Carlton- Jones slotted over the conver- RGC will be looking to register sion to add to the far harder their first home win this week- one he had made after the first end as they take on sleeping score. giants of Welsh rugby Ponty- pool at Parc Eirias. Ponty have By this stage of the match been languishing in the second RGC were in complete control, tier of the Welsh domestic and just to emphasise this their scene since its inception but third score was a penalty try, have made a promising start to awarded after the home-side’s the campaign and currently sit pack repeatedly infringed as in third place in the standings. RGC NEWS

WRU CHAMPIONSHIP RGC General Manager, Rupert Moon, stars in this week’s ‘My Week in Pictures’ feature in Daily Post

RGC General Manager was asked to take part in the Daily Post feature My Week In Pictures which was is in Thursday’s paper.

If you follow Rupert on twitter you know he is a man of both words and pictures.....plus a few cheesy songs thrown in for good measure.

Following the great success of the Blackwood trip, the Sup- porters’ Club will be running another minibus to TONDU for parents, parents with children and supporters. Details at www.gogogogs.co.uk

The New RGC Supporters Club Web- site is now up and running, and is the place to go to discuss all things RGC.

If you are looking for an RGC Forum then this is the place to go.

http://www.gogogogs.co.uk/.

Welsh Exiles rebrand as Clwb Exiles

British & Irish Lions heroes Alex Cuthbert and at Report by Rob Griffiths, Daily Post the relaunch in . Coleg Llandrillo got their WRU Wednesday under-18s league Sam Warburton, Alex Cuthbert and were the star at- campaign up and running with a well-earned 27-20 win over Llan- tractions at a re-launch event for the Welsh Exiles held in London dovery at Parc Eirias. last week. After last week’s narrow loss at Coleg Gwent, Llandrillo hit back The current Wales and British and Irish Lions stars, and former with victory over Llandovery to set up a tantalising match next player turned pundit Charvis, held court as the organisation, Wednesday at Cowbridge Comprehensive, which is being shown whose primary aim is the identification and nurturing of Welsh live on the website (s4c.co.uk). qualified players living outside Wales, re-launched itself as ‘Clwb Exiles’. Should Llandrillo claim the win at Cowbridge they will head into the top tier when the competition splits into two, while a defeat will The club is embarking on a new season with renewed vigour, the see them in the lower echelon. promise of more fixtures for its members and prospective mem- bers and an outreach schedule which will include ‘recruitment’ Josh Leach, director of rugby at Llandrillo College, said: “Next drives as far and wide as the North West as well as its traditional week is a tremendous game for us. If we win then we will go into heartland in the English capital. the top tier of the league after the split, and that would be an amazing achievement for us in our first step up to this competi- Club chairman, Martyn Ryan, thanked master of ceremonies Phil tion. Steele for hosting the evening and explained how the rebranding coincides with a new increasingly proactive approach for Clwb “That’s the level of competition we are trying to achieve here, we Exiles. want to play against the best and compete against the best.”

“We have two main aims as a club,” said Mr Ryan. “We endeav- Llandrillo, who claimed the British Elite Colleges League title last our to identify Welsh qualified players and offer them the chance season, kept their hopes of progressing into the top tier alive with to get on the player pathway to elite rugby in Wales and we pro- yesterday’s win. vide rugby fixtures for Welsh exiles to showcase their talents. Winger Ryan Pike scored two tries, while hooker Tim Gray and “Our mission is gathering new impetus this season with an in- flanker Daniel Colclough also touched down with full-back Morgan crease in the number of fixtures we are proposing and an expand- Williams converting two and adding a penalty. ing network of staff who will be visiting rugby clubs and research- ing the backgrounds of relevant players. Leach added: “I’m very pleased with the performance.

“We also intend to hold more events like the one this evening in “First half was an all-round performance, and second half we central London, but to take them to different venues around the defended well, which is what won us the game.” country. Teejac Sports “This evening has been a resounding success and we would like to thank Sam, Alex, Colin and our expert host Phil Steele for the Ltd part they have played. Niwbwrch, , “Alex is someone who was identified by the Welsh exiles and has Bangor, gone on to join the likes of , and Colin before him and achieve great success on the international stage LL57 4DY in Welsh colours.

“These are players who would probably not have found their way Tel: 01248 353 575 - Fax: 01248 372973 back to Wales without our intervention. Email: [email protected] Facebook: www.facebook.com/teejac “We are proud to have played a part, but are also sure there is plenty more to come from Clwb Exiles in the future.”

Anyone who wishes to find out more about Clwb Exiles can con- tact [email protected] 28 September 2013

First Minister Carwyn Jones FM & St David Awards trophy designer Gideon Petersen

NOMINATE FOR A ST DAVID AWARD NOW!

Recommend someone you feel deserves recognition for their outstanding achievements

The national St David Awards scheme is unique to Wales and recognises the achievements of people from all walks of life. The Awards themselves will be an annual feature of Welsh life cel- ebrating those people who do exceptional things, inspiring others and making a real difference to the quality of life in Wales.

You can nominate in any of eight categories -

1. Bravery 2. Citizenship 3. Culture 4. Enterprise 5. Innovation and Technology 6. Sport 7. International 8. Young Person

You just have to click on the website

http://stdavidawards.org.uk

and make your nomination online, or download a form or request a hard copy.

It is your nomination that counts!

Letters of Support and other materials are strictly optional.

You still have a month to go before the deadline for nominations on 5 November 2013. So click in and make a nomination!

“Most of us have been fortunate enough to meet someone like this at some point in our lives and now is our chance to give something back. I would urge people to fill out the form and nomi- nate anyone they feel deserves recognition and give them the opportunity to be put in the spotlight.”

Carwyn Jones AM, The First Minister of Wales Dolgellau Juniors ‘Cyclothon’ from Dolgellau to Rome for club funds

Wales Rugby League to have final warm up game at Parc Eirias

The junior sections of Dolgellau one puncture and a couple of Rugby Club have completed a broken chains, all the riders sponsored cyclothon to raise successfully completed the funds for upcoming tours. The challenge. Upon the comple- aim of the event was to tion of the ride they were then collectively cycle the equivalent given some pizza and pasta to distance from Dolgellau rugby replace the lost carbs! club to Rome - approximately 1070 miles - they achieved At the end of this season 1089! the u15s and u13s are go- ing on tour to Ireland, and the The U15s and U13s cycled at younger teams will be heading least 26 miles each, the U11s to England (opponents to be did a minimum of 10 miles, U8s decided!) but a day at Drayton did a minimum of 5 miles and Manor is hoped for. the U6s did 2 miles. Many of the riders did a few extra miles. The total sum raised in Each group set off at intervals sponsorship was £2500 and a with at least one adult trying cake stall and raffle was also to keep up! The weather along held. The organisers would like the beautiful Mawddach Trail to thank every cyclist, every was thankfully dry, but there sponsor and every parent who was a strong head wind for the helped make this event such a return journey which made the success. route a challenge. Apart from Under 12s & Under 13s Physical Literacy Workshop and RGC 1404 Match Support

Welshpool v Harri Evans is hoping to add another string to his bow as he con- tinues his development as a rugby player.

Evans is currently spending the middle part of his week training with the Wales Sevens squad along with fellow RGC star Afon Bagshaw, who was part of the squad that competed in the FIRA- AER series in Romania recently.

The duo have already been told they have not made the cut for the final Wales squad that will travel to Australia for the Gold Coast Sevens tournament next week for what is the first round of the IRB Sevens Series.

But Evans adds Wales coach Paul John has told both North Wales players there is every chance they may be involved in the squad for the later tournaments.

And Evans believes adding Sevens to his repertoire can only benefit him in the long run. Report (Rob Griffiths) and picture kindly supplied by North “It’s really positive for me at the moment,” said Evans. “I’m happy Wales Daily Post that I’ve got another chance to develop my game.

“After the under-20s I still have a chance to be involved in the While it may ultimately have ended in heartbreak for the Welsh Wales set-up and playing top-end rugby. youngsters, Evans adds it was an “amazing experience”.

“It was after the National Sevens tournament in in the sum- He said: “I played in the first game against Samoa, where I came mer, me and Afon were both asked to come down for training with on with about half an hour to go, and I was really pleased with my the Wales Sevens squad. performance. And I came on against Argentina, but I didn’t really get the chance to get hold of the ball too much which was disap- “In the National Sevens tournament RGC did really well. We beat pointing, but that is how it goes in rugby. Swansea and and only lost to Llandovery late on in the tournament. We put in some really good performances as a team. “But being part of the whole squad was an amazing experience.

“Afon had been training with the Sevens for a few weeks, and I “We missed out on the gold medal in the end narrowly, but we had missed a few sessions because of a shoulder injury. played well throughout and it has made me want to play for the under-20s even more.” “We’ve already been told we are not going to make the squad for the Gold Coast Sevens, but Paul John has told us that if we carry And he may get the chance early next year in the U20s Six Na- on training well then there is every chance we could be involved tions tournament, in which Wales use Parc Eirias in Colwyn Bay in South Africa or USA down the line.” as their base.

Evans and Bagshaw are two of three North Walians involved in While not looking too far ahead, Evans does admit to big ambi- the Sevens extended training squad along with former RGC ace tions. Iolo Evans. “I just want to keep my form and my fitness and keep playing well Iolo Evans – who was with RGC last season, signed a contract for RGC,” said the young centre. with the Sevens over the pre-season and has decided to join Carmarthen Quins this term – has been selected for the squad to “I’ve got the under-20s selection coming up in January and if I am travel to Australia for the first round of the IRB Series. playing well I might get called up for them again.

It was a busy summer for Harri Evans, who was part of the Wales “But I’m not thinking that far ahead, I am simply looking at playing under-20s squad that finished second in the IRB Junior World well week in week out for RGC and training well every Wednes- Championship in France. day down in the Vale with the Wales Sevens.”

Don’t forget to text 07713 514375 RGC U16s won 21 - 8 against Nant Conwy on Thursday and Marc Roberts gave his thoughts on the 80 minutes. or tweet @ovalzonerugby Last night’s game was definitely a useful exercise for the U16’s, the result from your game on a played in poor conditions we managed to move the ball and get through a few phases against a physical Nant Conwy Side. It was great to see so many people in the crowd supporting the players Saturday evening if you want the as we now look to next week’s game against Cheshire U16s. We will look at a smaller squad for the game as we look for another league tables on the web-sites to positive performance” be kept up-to-date RGC U16’s v Cheshire U16’s, next Wednesday, Colwyn Bay Rugby Club, 7.30ko JUNIOR ROUND-UP Pictures left show the Rhyl Under 11 and Under 12 teams Rhyl Under 11’s continue their impressive start to the season for a 59-14 win against Colwyn Bay.

In a fine all round team performance, Callum Gardner scored 4 tries and Christian Hone, Toby Millar, Owen Reece-Jones, Harri- son Evans all scored a try a piece. Man of the Match went to Aled Jones who put in a superb all round display, backed up by Joshua King and Joshua Smith.

The under 12s got their season underway away to a strong Shot- ton side and came away with a convincing 50-15 victory.

Rhyl dominated the game in every area throughout the first half with some fantastic team play, putting in crunching tackles and following it up with some ferocious rucking that had even the op- position supporters applauding, with Rhyl running up a 35 - 0 lead by half time.

Sol Williams and Austin Webber picked up where they left off last season, scoring a hat trick apiece with team captain Harvey Dawes also crossing the whitewash either side of half time. Ewan Williams also got his name on the score sheet diving over after some fantastic team play and James Fielding completed the scor- ing with an excellent run coming in from full back.

An excellent performance by an ever improving Rhyl U15s side RHYL AND DISTRICT RUGBY CLUB saw them finish worthy winners, 29-10, against a spirited Shotton side. Rhyl took control early on but a couple of lapses in con- Weeks of expert coaching were evident and certainly paid off as centration towards half time let Shotton back into the game and Rhyl under 7’s came very close to defeating both Moore (War- Rhyl went into the break only 19-10 ahead. The second half was rington) and Wrexham and in both games the result could have a different story with Rhyl continually piling on the pressure and gone either way before Rhyl narrowly lost. The unstoppable Son- hooker Spud Allen scoring two excellently worked tries out wide. ny Williams, with his lightning pace, ran in a hat trick of tries over Try scorers were Nic Drinkwater, Sasha Pichushkin, Sam Jones the 2 games. Osian John and Lewis Jones both scored a brace of and Mathew Allen with 2 along with 2 conversions from Sam tries as they showed their devastating finishing skills. Tries were Jones but overall it was a superb team effort. also scored by Isaac Feak, Oliver Roe, Lewis and Gethin Evans. Bro U16s, 7 Rhyl U16s 49. A mention must be given to Gethin Evans for both his attacking and defensive prowess. The coaches had difficult decisions to Rhyl Travelled to Bro with a squad of just 15 players and with make when awarding Best Effort Award to Isaac Feak who jinked a number of those playing out of position. They were met by a his way through the defence several times and for an exceptional physical, determined home side who set their stall out early with contribution, the Best Performance Award went to Oliver Roe. some crunching tackles, but nevertheless Rhyl ran out comforta- ble winners, running in 7 tries through Max Pearce, Reeve Wright, Rhyl U9’s 6 tries, Wrexham U9’s 6 tries Jack Stavely, Tom Yates and a hatrick for Tore Wright, with 14 points from the boot of Tyler Prime. All credit to Bro Ffestiniog who Rhyl U9’s in their first game of the season away from home put in kept fighting until the final whistle. a good solid performance against a physical Wrexham team. Rhyl were ahead for all of the game before Wrexham levelled the score in the dying seconds. Rhyl played some stylish rugby with a hat CLWB RYGBI DINBYCH trick of tries scored by both Airan Semple and Joseph McKeena. In defence some great tackles were made by Joseph Roberts and The junior teams travelled to Nant Conwy. The Under 13s had Owain Espley but overall it was a good team performance and in the earlier start and a tightly fought contest saw the home side the end Rhyl were disappointed with the draw. triumph by 3 tries to 1 with a 17-5 final score.

Rhyl U9’s 6 tries, Rhos U9’s 2 tries The Under 15s turned in another impressive performance as they ran in 9 tries whilst only conceding a solitary try to Nant. The final Rhyl played a second game at Wrexham against Rhos and ran score, Nant U15s 5 Dinbych U15s 57. out comfortable winner with two tries apiece for Dylan Cook and Airan Semple and a try each for Joseph Mckeena and Dilan The Under 16s had to work harder for their 12-26 victory against Volshenic. It was a good effort from the whole team especially in Nant. Gruff Roberts scored two tries with Dafydd Roberts also defence to deny Rhos from creating scoring chances. crossing twice. Josh Morris added 3 conversions with Nant scor- ing two tries and one conversion in reply. The game served as an useful rehearsal for all 3 of Dinbych’s points scorers as they have been selected for the RGC U16 side that is playing Nant Conwy’s U19 side on Wednesday night.

Back in Denbigh, the club’s younger teams were hosting Nant Conwy. An excellent team performance saw the Under 11s record a well deserved 21-14 victory over a strong Nant side.

The Under 10s went down 7-29 but the coaches were pleased with the way the team stuck at it to earn a consolation try.

The Under 9s also tasted victory outscoring the visitors by 4 tries to 2. instantly responded with Bay’s 4th try of the match but again the JUNIOR ROUND-UP home side came back with a score to even things up. With the clock ticking down, Sior Marsden scored Colwyn Bay’s The Under 8s played a round robin with both Nant and Abergele 5th try and possibly the winner but Bangor finished with a flourish and in a series of entertaining games, went down by 7-13 overall and the game ended in a draw. to Nant and narrowly lost 6-8 to Abergele. This Sunday, Colwyn Bay U9s play Ruthin at home. This coming weekend, the Mini Junior section players have a well deserved rest after an intensive 4 weeks of games. Many of the Colwyn Bay U9s pictured before the game at Bangor in their new coaches are travelling to Jersey with Dinbych’s Veterans team kit from Akuma Rugby. and we will see if they can practice what they preach!

COLWYN BAY RUGBY CLUB

Bangor U12s 0 - Colwyn Bay U12s 32

Colwyn Bay U12s visited Bangor and produced an excellent display in attacking rugby. The game was allowed to flow and both sides enjoyed the opportunity to run the ball.

The Colwyn Bay back line were provided with a solid platform from the forwards to get plenty of opportunities to exploit the width of the pitch. Joel Shacklady soon opened the scoring, using his speed to full effect and finish in the corner. It was soon added to, following an excellent break away by Cai Davies, Ben Hoyle powered over the line to score the Bay’s second try. Try scorers’ Chay Bonnington (left) and James Copeland (right)

Joel Shacklady continued to shine, and provided an excellent pass to send Owen Phillips free and score his first try of the day. The first half finished at 0-15 to Colwyn Bay. The second half started with Bangor trying to exert more pressure on Colwyn Bay. Cai Davies picked out Owen Phillips with a miss pass, who then proceeded to run the full length of the field, weaving his way though the Bangor players to score an outstanding try.

With confidence high, Owen Phillips was determined to score his hat-trick. As the ball arrived to the winger, he cut inside and then stepped back out to cut the defence and run in his third try. Ben Hoyle converted the try. The final score came from captain, Ollie Gibson, producing a lovely chip and chase over the defence, which he dribbled through to the try line.

Great spirit shown by all players, with excellent officiating from the referee to produce an entertaining game for the travelling support.

The picture below shows the Colwyn Bay Under 12’s

Bangor U9s 25 v Colwyn Bay U9s 25

COLWYN Bay U9s first taste of competitive full contact rugby ended in a deserved draw at Bangor. ’s Under 8s made a very impressive start to their sea- son, winning three of their five festival fixtures, and only losing the James Copeland opened the scoring for the Bay Under 9s inside other two by a score in each. the opening 15 seconds as he ran in a superb try from the half- way line. Rydal Penrhos schoolmate Chay Bonnington was next Sam Betts and Clayton Kennedy played very well in their first ever on the scoresheet as he added a second in the opposite corner. matches, whilst the older players set them a good example, show- ing some good support play and making some excellent runs. Bangor fought back to even the scores and looked like taking the lead when Henry Battersby put in a try saving tackle on his own Welshpool: Huw Humphreys, Freddie Murton-Jones, Callum Mor- line. The Bangor attacker spilled the ball and it was scooped up gan, Sam Betts, Clayton Kennedy by Jamie Cosgrove to run the full length of the pitch for a 15-10 lead at half-time. COBRA 30-25 Welshpool; Newtown 1 30-25 Welshpool Bala 10-15 Welshpool; Dolgellau 10-15 Welshpool After the break, Bangor pulled the scores level again. Battersby Newtown 2 5-10 Welshpool Builth U13’s start the season off with two tournament wins

Llanidloes Tournament to give talk on ‘The A really wet and windy day at with a different team to Development of the Game’ at next the one that one in Aberdare. The boys had to dig deep to get warmed up and put on soaking shirts again however they rose to NWRUC meeting the task in hand and clinically overcame some enthusiastic op- Some great news this week with the confirmation that Gareth position. By beating Newtown 27-0, Aberaeron 17-5 and Dolgellau Jenkins, former Wales Coach, has agreed to give a presentation 26-0 the Under 13s saw themselves in their second final within 2 at the next North Wales RUC meeting, which is due to be held at weeks. They faced a determined Gwernyfed side who provided Parc Eirias, on Monday, 11th November, 2013. an even match preventing Builth scoring with a solid defence of their try line. Finally, a strong run from Prys Eckley secured the only try of the match before a Ryan Powell conversion provided a 7-0 triumph. New Secretary for Colwyn Bay RFC Becca Costello has today taken over as the club’s new honor- It was a difficult day, but everyone played their part and cemented ary. Becca is already the Junior Registration Secretary and will a good start to the season. continue that role also. She will sit on both Junior and Senior committees. Tournament Scorers were: Tries – Spencer Havard-Pratt, James Lewis, Ryan Powell, Rhys Morris, Prys Eckley. Conversions – Ryan Powell, Ethan Johnstone (Capt)

Pictured above recieving their trophy at Llanidloes Tournament

Aberdare Tournament

Builth Wells U13s went down to the Aberdare tournament last Sunday for their first games of the new season. This was a 10 a side event which gave the opportunity to rotate players and introduce some new members to the game. The team bonded well and after a shaky first minute, took the game to Abercynon beating them 15-0, before going on to beat Abercwmboi 10-5, and Gwernwfed 10-5 to win the group and take them through to the U13 final. Fired up, Builth started strongly against Swansea Uplands with Smiler being put through for an early try, this was followed by tries from Prys, Steffan, Spencer and Rhys before a consolation try in the final minute took the score to 30-5. A great performance ... Well done.

Pictured below with their coaches ster I was inspired to fulfil my potential by some great teachers, both in sport and in my other sub- jects. It’s important to recognise inspirational teachers as they can have such a pivotal role in young people’s lives.”

“The memories and impact of great teachers stay with us for life and help shape our view of the world, said WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis.

“Schools fulfil a vital role in intro- Leach looks ducing young people to rugby and nurturing talent and we are keen to ahead with support teachers in their work. Llandrillo Welsh backs “We understand that workloads for teachers are increasing, so we want to support teachers RGC News caught teachers in Wales in innovative ways to deliver up with Coleg Lland- rugby. We have developed a rillo Director of Rugby Former Whitchurch pupil Sam aims to recognise inspirational Josh Leach after the Warburton was ‘inspired’ by his teachers in Wales after a survey WRU School of Rugby initiative teachers. - carried out by TES Connect which rewards schools that show sides great victory in July this year - revealed that a commitment to the develop- against Llandovery. The Welsh Rugby Union has recent changes in education had ment of rugby by providing more teamed up with global education left many teachers and leaders in playing and coaching opportuni- Josh who is also business TSL Education, own- Welsh schools feeling frustrated ties, providing an opportunity for RGC’s scrum half said ers of the award-winning digital and undervalued. as many players as possible to education platform TES Connect achieve their potential and enjoy the game of rugby. We have also “It was a big result for (www.tesconnect.com), to launch Every school in Wales is eligible the college and it will a competition aimed exclusively at to take part in the competition introduced and raised the standard and profile of various schools and give us confidence teachers in Wales. which, in addition to recognising and momentum going inspirational teachers, will also re- colleges competitions especially Following the launch of TES ward the winning teacher’s school the WRU Under 18 Wednesday into next weeks game Wales (www.tesconnect.com/ with a first prize of thousands of League which now enjoys weekly against Cowbridge wales), TES Connect today an- pounds worth of IT equipment for television coverage, and we are Comprehensive. If nounces the launch of their My their classrooms. providing additional resources we win we will head Best Teacher competition across and training to coaches and school into the top tier of the Wales, in partnership with the Lions, Wales and teachers across the country.” competition where country’s RBS 6 Nations winning back row forward Sam Warburton, it will be a more rugby team. who speaks of his inspirational TSL CEO Louise Rogers said, “This is a fantastic opportunity demanding level of teachers in this month’s TES rugby each week. The My Best Teacher campaign magazine and said, “As a young- for us to help raise the profile of teachers in Wales and we’re delighted to help them receive I think the expecta- the recognition they deserve. We tion for the 3 new believe that Wales has some of teams was that we the best and most inspirational would all struggle, educators in the world, so it’s only but yesterdays re- fitting that we are partnering with sult shows we can one of the world’s best rugby na- tions to help showcase that talent.” be competitive in the league.” TES Wales www.tesconnect. com/waleshas been created Cowbridge Com- especially for Welsh teachers and prehensive v Coleg provides them with a platform Llandrillo is live on through which they can commu- the S4C website next nicate, share lesson plans and best Wednesday 2.25pm practice, find the latest industry with highlights on S4C news and features, and access the at 10.30pm latest job opportunities and careers advice for free. EARLY HEINEKEN CUP FIXTURES Guess the year these two games took place - email your answer please to [email protected] DIVISION ONE NORTH DIVISION TWO NORTH DIVISION THREE NORTH DIVISION ONE WEST

Saturday, 7th September 2013 Ammanford 31 (+1) v Kidwelly 30 (+2) Carmarthen Ath 20 v Crymych 8 Glynneath 29 (+1) v 3 Kenfi g Hill 29 (+1) v Llangennech 23 (+2) Loughor 34 v Whitland 6 Waunarlwydd 52 (+1) v Cwmllynfell 5

Saturday, 14th September 2013 Builth Wells 27 (+1) v Ammanford 13 Crymych 35 v Kenfi g Hill 29 (+1) Cwmllynfell 34 (+1) v Loughor 22 Kidwelly 15 (+1) v Waunarlwydd 17 Llangennech 17 (+1) v Glynneath 23 Whitland 22 (+1) v Carmarthen Athletic 24

Don’t forget to text 07713 514375 or tweet @ovalzonerugby the result from your game on a Saturday evening if you want the league tables on the web-sites to be kept up-to-date DIVISION TWO WEST DIV 6 EAST

Saturday, 7th September 2013 District J Secretary Bro Ffestiniog Tegid Phillips, Bryn Collen, Vale Street, Denbigh, LL163BW. Sec: Mr R. D Williams, Gwyneddfa, Glanypwll, , Gwyn- Tel: 01745 812375 (h) 01248 383047 (b) 07901 973297 (m) edd. Tel: 01766 830145. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Adrian Roberts, 3 Dorfil Road, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd LL41 3YH. Abergele Tel: 07795 259580 (m). Email: [email protected] Sec: Simon Hughes, 33, Heol Colwyn, Abergele, Conwy, LL22 7UP. Tel: 01745 827023 (h) 07836 604962 (m). Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: John Jones-Davies, 154 Maes Canol, Abergele, Conwy LL22 7PB. Builth Wells Tel: 07786 107341 (m). Email: [email protected] Sec: Mrs Annie Abraham, 6 Brynawelon, , , LD4 4AA 01591 620455 (h) 07786 674191 (m) Aberystwyth Email: [email protected] Sec: Mr A Jones, Meiros, Llanbadarn Road, Aberystwyth, SY23 3QN. HQ: 11 Market Street, Builth Wells, Powys, LD2 3AG 01970 610167 (h) 01970 622826 (b) (fax) 07761 814868 (m) Website: www.builthbulls.com Email: [email protected] Tel: 01982 552696 (HQ –weekend evenings only) HQ: Plascrug, Aberystwyth, SY23 1HL. 01970 623800 (HQ) Fix Sec: Tricia Davies ,15 Tyle Heulog , Builth Wells ,Powys, LD2 3FD. Fix Sec: Glanmor Thomas, Pengwern, , Aberystwyth, Tel: 01982 552266 (h) 01432 270793 (b) 07971 410102 (m) Dyfed, SY23 3BG, Tel: 01970 617787 (h) 01970 823175 (b), 07766 026890 (m). Email: [email protected] Caernarfon Sec: Mr Alun Roberts, Y Morfa , Lôn Parc, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, Aberystwyth University LL55 2YF. Tel: 01286 675140 (h) 07889 075155 (m) Sec: Rhys Parry, Rhiwlas Uchaf, Cilcennin, Lampeter, SA48 8RT Email: [email protected] 01570 471545 (h) 01970 622427 (b) HQ: Y Morfa, Lon Parc, Caernarfon. Tel 01286 674513 (HQ) HQ: Vicarage Fields, Llanbadarn Road, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 Fix Sec: Myfyr Jones, 21 Tyddyn Llwydyn, Caernarfon, Ll55 2LX. 1HB. 01970 623036 (HQ) Tel: 07900 456534 (m) Fix Sec: Nigel Thomas, Cwmcoednerth, Rhydlewis, Llandysul SA44 5SX. Tel: 01970 622480 (b), 01239 851720 (h), 07976 614950 (m) Email: [email protected] COBRA Sec: Mr. Anthony Evans, Gwel-yr-Afon, Heulfryn, , Bala Powys, SY21 0BH. Sec: Lois Griffiths, 17 High Street, Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7AG. Tel: 01938 810432 (h). Email: [email protected] Tel: 07899 894135 (m). Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Andy Evans. Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Iolo Jones , Bryn Clochydd , Llangwm , Conwen , LL21 0RA . Tel: 01490 420087 (h) 07803 581106 (m) Colwyn Bay Bangor Sec: Tanya Michael,68, Pengarth, Conwy LL32 8RP. Sec: David Dunn, 9 Mill Bank, Llandegfan, Anglesey, LL59 5RD. Tel: 07730 533432 (m). Email: [email protected] Tel 01248 712068 (h) 07960 391118 (M). HQ: Brookfield Drive, Rhos on Sea, Colwyn Bay, LL28 4SW. Email: [email protected] Tel 01492 547538 HQ: Cae Milltir, , Nr Bangor, Gwynedd. LL57 4AA. Fix Sec: Mr Peter Rose. Tel: 01492 549246 (h) 07899 706853 (m) Tel 01248 371174 (HQ/f) email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Sean Kelly,15 Caerau Penrallt, Lon Dryll, Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, LL61 8LA. Tel: 07725 894780 (m) Email: [email protected] Denbigh Sec: Jeff Jenkins, 12 Pont y Bedol, Llanrhaeadr, Denbigh, LL16 4NF. 01745 890565 (h). Email: [email protected] Sec: Mr. Rhys Dart, Students’ Union, Oswalds, Victoria Drive, Bangor, HQ: Caeau Les Phillips, Ffordd y Graig, Dinbych, LL16 5US Gwynedd LL57 2EN. Tel: 01745 814060 (HQ) Tel: 01248 388011 (landline) 07940 429859 (m). Fix Sec: Tom Williams, 6 Llys Tudur, Denbigh, LL16 4AL. HQ: Maesglas, Ffriddoedd Road, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2EH. Tel: 01745 812875 (h) 07733 396388 (m) Email: [email protected] 01248 382571 (HQ) 01248 382573 (cf) Fix Sec: Guy Croft, Athletic Union Student Union, Bangor, Gwynedd. Tel: 01248 388010 (b) 01248 388020 (fax) 07980 595461 (m) Dolgellau Sec: Selwyn Goldsworthy, Berwyn, Cae Deintur, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 Bangor Normal College 2YS. 01341 421346 (h). Email: [email protected] Tegid Phillips, Bryn Collen, Vale Street, Denbigh, LL163BW. HQ: Marian Mawr, Dolgellau, Gwynedd. LL40 1UU. 01341 423 091 Tel: 01745 812375 (h) 01248 383047 (b) 07901 973297 (m). Fix Sec: Mr Gareth Roberts, 4 Waterloo Street, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 Email: [email protected] 1DD. Tel: 01341 423060 (h) 07737 738495 (m) HQ: Holyhead Road, Bangor, LL57 2PX. Tel: 01248 383047 Email: [email protected]

Benllech Flint Chairman: Derek Hughes, 21 Bron Llys, Gaerwen, Anglesey LL60 Sec: David Hughes, The Granary, Chester Rd, Oakenholt, Flint, Tel: 01248 421 105 CH6 5SD. Tel: 077715 63586. Email: [email protected] Sec: Mike Davies, The Old School House, Pentraeth, Anglesey. Fix Sec: Russ Smith. Tel: 07816 20270952 (m) Tel: 01248 450365. Email: [email protected] HQ: Flint RFC, The Foreshore, Marsh Lane, Flint, Flintshire CH6 5PJ Fix Sec: David Williams, Gilfach, Llanbedrgoch, Anglesey LL76. Tel: 01248 450 364 Gwernyfed Ground: Treetops Public House, Lane, Tynygongl, Anglesey Sec: Brian Jones, 1 Gwernyfed Avenue, , , Powys, LD3 LL74 8RH. Tel: 01248 853075 0RT. 01497 847649 (h) 01874 624397 (b) 07800 758622 (m) email: [email protected] Bethesda HQ: The Malthouse, Trefecca Road, , nr Brecon. 01874 711975 Sec: Yvonne Dignam, 4/1 Stryd y Ffynnon, Gerlan, Bethesda, Gwynedd, Fix Sec: Robert East, Twydu, Llangorse, Brecon , Powys, LD3 7UA. LL57 3TN. Tel: 01248 600056 (h) 07429 116585 (m). Tel: 01874 658335 (h) 01443 483044 (b) 07875 233236 (m) Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] HQ: Old Station Yard, Bethesda, Gwynedd, LL57 3NE 07528 766097 (HQ) email: [email protected] Harlech Fix Sec: Mr. Simon Dignam, 4/1 Well Street, Gerlan, Bethesda, Sec: Robin Boston. Tel: 01691 718416 (h) 07870 626718 (m) Gwynedd, LL57 3TN. Email: [email protected] Tel: 07917 897927 (m) 01248 600056 (h) Fix Sec: ???? Holyhead Sec: Shane Webster, Kilwa, Four Mile Bridge, Holyhead LL65 2FB. Sec: Mr Gareth Connick, Tai Lon, Penmorfa, Porthmadog, LL49 9SL. Tel: 01407 749036 (H), 07528 888769 (m). Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Emrys Owen, Bull Hotel, Llangefni, Anglesey Fix Sec: Emyr Williams, 7 Lon Cedric, Four Mile Bridge, Holyhead LL65 Tel: 01248 722119 (h), 07805 208271 (m) 2NL. Tel: 01407 740917 (H), 07786 680627 (m). Email: [email protected] Sec: Bryn Martin, Pant y Wennol, , Pwllheli LL53 5UR 01758 613307 (h) 01758 612042 (b) 01758 613815 / 701869 (f) Sec: Jonathon Duggan, Cwm Farm, Llandegley, Llandrindod Wells, LD1 Email: [email protected] ; [email protected] 5UH. Tel: 07810 093422 (m). Email: [email protected] HQ: Parc Bodegroes, Efainewydd, Pwllheli, LL53 5TH Fix Sec: Jamie Watkins. Tel: 01597 860705 (h), 07766 076093 (m) 01758 613676 (HQ) 01758 701751 (HQ fax) Fix Sec: Kenneth Davies, Rhos-Bach, Llannor, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 Llandudno 5UG. Tel: 01758 614478 (h) 01758 704763 (b) 01758 704777 (f) Sec: Heather Thomas, 1 Bryniau Place, West Shore, Llandudno, LL30 2PJ. Tel: 01492 879914 (h) 07890 564298 (m). Rhosllanerchrugog Email: [email protected] Sec: Mr Richard Caldecott. Tel: 01978 843920 (h) 07999 319761 (m) HQ: Maesdu Road, Recreational Ground, Bodnant Road, Llandudno, LL30 Email: [email protected] 1LH. Tel: 01492 876992 (HQ). Fix Sec: Martin Ellis, 17 Ty Wesley, Australia Street, Ponciau, Wrexham email: [email protected] LL14 1EB. Tel: 01978 846957 (h), 07929 714632 (m). Fix Sec: Carol Edwards, 113 Penrhos Avenue,Llandudno, Junction, Email: [email protected] LL31 9EN. Tel: 01492 572356 (h) 07858 436694 (m) Email: [email protected] Sec: Mr A Pugh, Pont Ffordd, , Llandrindod Wells, Powys Llangefni LD1 6EL. Tel: 01597 823518 (h) 07867 532306 (m). Sec: Arnold Milburn, Tyn Llwyn, Lon Dywood, Llangristiolus, Ynys Mon, Email: [email protected] LL62 5PG. Tel: 01248 724400 Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Haydn O’Reilly. Tel: 07544 171878. Email: haydnoreilly@hotmail. [email protected] www.llangefnirfc.com co.uk HQ: Cae Smyrna, Llangefni, Ynys Mon, LL77 7EU. 01248 722206 Fix Sec: Mr Eirwyn Vaughan, Dolau Gwyrddion, Rhostrehwfa, Llangefni, Rhyl and District Anglesey, LL77 7YP. Tel: 01248 723122 (h) Sec: Mr Tony Evans, 19 Westminster Avenue, Rhyl, Denbighshire Email: [email protected] LL18 4HE. Tel: 01745 343371 (h). 07833 664967 (m) Email: [email protected] Llangollen HQ: The Clubhouse, The Waen, Rhuddlan, Nr Rhyl LL18 5RS. Sec: David Hinchliffe, Whitesmiths, Smelt Road, Coedpoeth, Wrexham 01745 337174 (HQ) LL11 3SH.Tel: 01978 757167 (H), 07793 836532 (M). Fix Sec: Bob E. Jones, 28 Llys-y-Tywysog, Rhyl, Denbighshire Email: [email protected] LL18 4HJ. Tel: 01745 337331 (h) 0151 252 4770 (b) Fix Sec: Geraint Roberts, 7 Pontfaen, Chirk LL14 5LW Tel: 07804 943989 Ruthin Sec: Mr Pat Birkhill, Rhydyfen Bach, Corwen,LL21 0EN Llanidloes 01490 460306 (h). Email: [email protected] Sec: Elaine Jones, 25 Smithfield Street, Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 6EJ. Clubhouse, Cae Ddol, Lon Fawr, Ruthin, Denbighshire, LL15 1LB. 01824 Tel: 01686 413002. Email: [email protected] 702457 (HQ) HQ: Smithfield Street, Llanidloes, Powys SY18 6EJ. Fix Sec: John Hughes, Erw Las, Mold Road, Ruthin. 01686 413254 (HQ) www.llanidloesrugby.co.uk Tel: 01824 702618 (h) Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Geraint Jerman, Oerffrwd, Clatter, , Powys SY17 5NP. Tel: 01686 420634 (h) 07989 130548 (m) Shotton Steel Email: [email protected] Sec: Helen Worall, 4 Hafod Park, Connahs Quay, Flintshire, CH5 4XT. Tel: 01244 815834 (h) 07725 039816 (m). Email: [email protected] Seniors Fix Sec: Alan Leamon. Tel: 07748 963425 Sec: Mr Steven Nicholas, 94 , Machynlleth, SY20 8HY. Youth/Junior Fix Sec: Peter Lyth. Tel: 07828 621431 Tel: 01654 702719 (h) 07517 009761 (m). Email: [email protected] Mini Fix Sec: Becky Lyons. Tel: 07525 753796 Fix Sec: Mike Green, Leicester House, Doll Street, Machynlleth, Powys SY20 8AJ. Tel: 07522 785105 (m) Trefyclawdd Sec: Simon Dodd. Tel: 01547 520871 (h), 07788 940676 (m). Menai Bridge Email: [email protected] Sec: Sion Hughes, 20 Bryn Adda, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2LJ. Fix Sec: Scott Graham. Tel: 01547 528291 (h), 07790 479068. Email: Tel: 01248 361374 (h). Email: [email protected] [email protected] Fix Sec: Rob McGuffie, 17 Bryn Eithinog, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2LA Tel: 07876 617222 Welshpool Sec: Gary Williams, Wylfa Westwood Park, Welshpool, Powys SY21 7QP. Mold Tel: 01938 553286 (h) 07713 514375 (m) 01938 552260 (b). Sec: Sian Griffiths, Pen y Graig, Village Road, Maeshafn, Mold, CH7 5LU. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01352 810612 (h) 07940 293481 (m). Clubhouse, Maesydre Recreation Grounds, Welshpool. 01938 553274 Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Dai Griffiths, 10 Croft Road, Welshpool, Powys HQ: The Clubhouse, Chester Road, Mold, CH7 1UF 01352 755635 Tel: 07713 335810 (m). Email: [email protected] Fix Sec: Colin Hughes, The Clubhouse, Chester Road, Mold, CH7 1UF. Tel: 01352 758022 (h) 01614 192506 (b) 07770 822079 (m) Wrexham Email: [email protected] Deborah Parry – Edwards, Glanrynd, Hill Street, Pentre Broughton, Wrex- ham, LL11 6DA. Nant Conwy Tel: 01978 759540 (h). 07873 2508 22 (m). Email: [email protected] Sec: Ifor Glyn Efans, Y Graig, Capel Curig, Conwy, LL24 0EL. HQ: Bryn Estyn Lane, Wrexham, LL13 9TY 01978 261215 (HQ) Tel: 01690 720217; mobile 07773 309382. Email [email protected]. website: www.wrufc.org.uk website: www.nantconwy.org Fix Sec: Kevin Davies, Swnaderyn, Mold Road, Caergwrle, HQ: Pant Carw, Trefriw, Llantrwst Nr Wrexham, LL12 9HA. Fix Sec: Wyn Roberts, Rhandir Garage, Trofarth, Abergele, LL22 8BW. Tel: 01978 760140 (h) 01978 760238 (b) 07742 826714 (m) Tel: 01492 650449 (h) 07818 400259 (m) E-mail: [email protected] RGC Will Morcombe (Team Manager), Eirias Parc, Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL29 Newtown 7SP. Tel: 07969 989626 (m). Email: [email protected] Sec: Dai Davies, Awelfryn, 8 Bryn Meadows, Newtown, Powys SY16 2DS. Tel: 01686 626267 (h) 07939 309862 (m) 01686 624054 (b) Fax 01686 624064. Email: [email protected] Please note that the information above has been supplied by the clubs and HQ: The Recreation Ground, Pool Road, Newtown, Powys any errors or omissions are not the responsibility of The Oval Zone or the 01686 626433 (HQ) 01686 624064 (f) Union Council. Fix Sec: Derek Murray, 14 Hawthorn Close, Barnfields, Newtown, Powys, SY16 2QJ. If a club wishes to make amendments please email the details to Tel: 01686 625380 (h) 07970 969844 (m) Fax: 01686 624064 [email protected] and this list will be updated - many thanks