Read what the Canadians have to say about their joint venture with Gogledd Cymru.
ALL SYSTEMS GO!!!!!
http://www.americanrugbynews.com/artman/publish/international/Initiative_between_Canada_Wales.shtml
31.12.09
31.12.09. Eifion ties the knot --Daily Post
Wales rugby star marries in Denbighshire
Dec 31 2009 by Owen R Hughes, Daily Post
WALES and Sale Sharks rugby star Eifion Lewis Roberts has tied the knot with his fiancé at a Denbighshire chapel.
The 21-stone prop, nicknamed Tarw (Bull), married 23-year-old Nia Williams in her home village of Clawddnewydd, near Ruthin.
The service in a snow-covered chapel was followed by a reception at St David’s Park Hotel in Ewloe.
Eifion, 28, who comes from Ruthin, has been with Nia, who works as a secretary, for four years after meeting her on a night out in the market town.
Speaking on Tuesday evening, he said he was looking forward to the big day.
He said: “It should be a big event, we have a lot of friends and family coming along. We wanted to get married in Nia’s home village of Clawddnewydd.
“I am very excited about it.”
Among those at the ceremony was England and Sale prop Andrew Sheridan. Fellow Wales and Sale star Dwayne Peel was unable to attend.
Any honeymoon plans for the couple will have to wait though as Eifion is straight back on the rugby field for Sale Sharks on New Years Day when they take on Harlequins.
The former farmer, who played as prop for Ruthin, has become a cult figure with Sale fans for his bulldozing runs. A beast on the field, the front rower is shy and softly spoken away off it.
His performances in the Guinness Premiership earned him a call-up to the Welsh squad in 2008 and he started in a victory against Canada, impressing those watching. But he was surprisingly omitted from the squad for this year’s autumn tests despite a shortage of quality scrummagers, with coach Warren Gatland telling the heavyweight to lose weight and improve his mobility.
Dec 31 2009 by Owen R Hughes, Daily Post
WALES and Sale Sharks rugby star Eifion Lewis Roberts has tied the knot with his fiancé at a Denbighshire chapel.
The 21-stone prop, nicknamed Tarw (Bull), married 23-year-old Nia Williams in her home village of Clawddnewydd, near Ruthin.
The service in a snow-covered chapel was followed by a reception at St David’s Park Hotel in Ewloe.
Eifion, 28, who comes from Ruthin, has been with Nia, who works as a secretary, for four years after meeting her on a night out in the market town.
Speaking on Tuesday evening, he said he was looking forward to the big day.
He said: “It should be a big event, we have a lot of friends and family coming along. We wanted to get married in Nia’s home village of Clawddnewydd.
“I am very excited about it.”
Among those at the ceremony was England and Sale prop Andrew Sheridan. Fellow Wales and Sale star Dwayne Peel was unable to attend.
Any honeymoon plans for the couple will have to wait though as Eifion is straight back on the rugby field for Sale Sharks on New Years Day when they take on Harlequins.
The former farmer, who played as prop for Ruthin, has become a cult figure with Sale fans for his bulldozing runs. A beast on the field, the front rower is shy and softly spoken away off it.
His performances in the Guinness Premiership earned him a call-up to the Welsh squad in 2008 and he started in a victory against Canada, impressing those watching. But he was surprisingly omitted from the squad for this year’s autumn tests despite a shortage of quality scrummagers, with coach Warren Gatland telling the heavyweight to lose weight and improve his mobility.
31.12.09. Jason Forster No 2 at Gogledd Cymru per Western Mail
Jason Forster will be No 2 at new North Wales club
Dec 30 2009 by Our Correspondent, Western Mail
FORMER Wales international Jason Forster has reunited with ex-national assistant coach Clive Griffiths at the new Gogledd Cymru club in North Wales, which was launched at the beginning of this month.
Forster, 38, who was captain of the Dragons before moving on three years ago, is currently part-time head coach at English National Three South side Henley Hawks.
However, he will combine that role with travelling to Conwy and helping North Wales head coach Griffiths in a part-time forwards position.
The two worked together at Doncaster in 2006-07 season when Griffiths was director of rugby and Forster, capped once on Wales’ tour of Argentina in 2004, was his captain and player-coach.
Together the pair led Doncaster to their highest place in the English leagues – third in National Divison One – before Griffiths joined Mike Ruddock as an assistant at Worcester.
Forster will join ex-Gloucester skills and conditioning coach Rudi Meir in the set-up
Forster said: “This will be only on a temporary contract between January and May and Henley have given me permission to go up to North Wales and work there while I’m still working with them.
“It is exciting times to get something off the ground in the North Wales area. It is very early days, but there are a lot of positives coming out of the area and everyone will want to buy into what is happening to see it grow.
“Clive and I had a very successful time at Doncaster, when we took them to third in the league, so it is going to be a very exciting time.
“My duties at Henley and in North Wales mean there will be a lot of travelling, but there has been a lot of effort put in the north and this is a wonderful chance to move rugby forward there.”
The North Wales squad will be reinforced by 10 Canadian players who are arriving on January 6, the same day as a match between the side and a Presidents XV which will allow former Wales defence boss Griffiths and his staff can run the rule over the home-based players.
And head coach Griffiths, who is also on a short-term contract until the end of this season, said of Forster’s recruitment: “He will be my No 2. When he was at Doncaster, he was my player, captain and forwards coach.
“Now he will give me heaps of knowledge he has picked up over the years and his enthusiasm is in no short measure.
“He will give me a lieutenant I know I can trust and who will allow me to leave him with the troops and not worry while I do other things.
“He is also a good player. He only had one Welsh cap but should have had a lot more.”
The North Wales squad take on a Leicester Tigers Development at Parc Eirias, Conwy, on January 15 followed by further friendlies against Antiassassins, at Chester, on January 20, Glamorgan Wanderers on January 30 plus matches against the Scarlets, Worcester, Sale Jets, Leeds, Oxford University and Cross Keys by the middle of April.
Dec 30 2009 by Our Correspondent, Western Mail
FORMER Wales international Jason Forster has reunited with ex-national assistant coach Clive Griffiths at the new Gogledd Cymru club in North Wales, which was launched at the beginning of this month.
Forster, 38, who was captain of the Dragons before moving on three years ago, is currently part-time head coach at English National Three South side Henley Hawks.
However, he will combine that role with travelling to Conwy and helping North Wales head coach Griffiths in a part-time forwards position.
The two worked together at Doncaster in 2006-07 season when Griffiths was director of rugby and Forster, capped once on Wales’ tour of Argentina in 2004, was his captain and player-coach.
Together the pair led Doncaster to their highest place in the English leagues – third in National Divison One – before Griffiths joined Mike Ruddock as an assistant at Worcester.
Forster will join ex-Gloucester skills and conditioning coach Rudi Meir in the set-up
Forster said: “This will be only on a temporary contract between January and May and Henley have given me permission to go up to North Wales and work there while I’m still working with them.
“It is exciting times to get something off the ground in the North Wales area. It is very early days, but there are a lot of positives coming out of the area and everyone will want to buy into what is happening to see it grow.
“Clive and I had a very successful time at Doncaster, when we took them to third in the league, so it is going to be a very exciting time.
“My duties at Henley and in North Wales mean there will be a lot of travelling, but there has been a lot of effort put in the north and this is a wonderful chance to move rugby forward there.”
The North Wales squad will be reinforced by 10 Canadian players who are arriving on January 6, the same day as a match between the side and a Presidents XV which will allow former Wales defence boss Griffiths and his staff can run the rule over the home-based players.
And head coach Griffiths, who is also on a short-term contract until the end of this season, said of Forster’s recruitment: “He will be my No 2. When he was at Doncaster, he was my player, captain and forwards coach.
“Now he will give me heaps of knowledge he has picked up over the years and his enthusiasm is in no short measure.
“He will give me a lieutenant I know I can trust and who will allow me to leave him with the troops and not worry while I do other things.
“He is also a good player. He only had one Welsh cap but should have had a lot more.”
The North Wales squad take on a Leicester Tigers Development at Parc Eirias, Conwy, on January 15 followed by further friendlies against Antiassassins, at Chester, on January 20, Glamorgan Wanderers on January 30 plus matches against the Scarlets, Worcester, Sale Jets, Leeds, Oxford University and Cross Keys by the middle of April.
31.12.09. NWRC and club volunteers praised in WRU New Year's Message
STRICT EMBARGO OF 00.01 THURSDAY 31 DECEMBER 2009
WRU PRESS RELEASEIssued: 30 December 2009
WRU New Year's Message
Making it happen by Roger Lewis
"We cannot expect things to happen. We have got to make them happen."
Those were the words of Wales prop Gethin Jenkins immediately after our defeat to Australia in the last match of the 2009 autumn test series; a series attended by almost 250,000 fans. The loss of that last game was a bitter blow to everyone, and particularly so for the players, coaches and back room staff. But it must not over shadow what has been a remarkable year for Welsh rugby.
In 2009 many people in Wales made things happen both on and off the pitch.
Today we can look forward to a New Year in which we will build on so many significant initiatives which have been launched or completed in the last twelve months.
At this time of year when we reflect on our fortunes I believe Welsh rugby has plenty to feel proud about.
The past year has roared past with the speed of a Shane Williams side step but the hard work has been worth it because we will reap the benefits for years, if not generations, to come.
We are constantly reshaping and restructuring Welsh rugby and the opening of the new multi-million pound WRU National Centre of Excellence in October was a major landmark for us all.
From now on all the WRU teams from under 18s through to senior level, Wales Sevens and Wales Women, will train and develop at the NCE in one of the world's finest, if not the finest rugby facilities. Indoor and outdoor training and playing surfaces are complemented with the latest technology and training equipment. All this supervised by a team of expert staff which is truly the envy of the rugby world. This will be the home of the new WRU National Academy.
The elite game in Wales was also strengthened when we signed the new five year Participation Agreement with our four Regions in September to create an operational roadmap which will help our players achieve their full potential. At the heart of this agreement is a commitment from the four regions to increase the number of Welsh qualifying players in their squads and reduce the number of non Welsh qualifying players, backed up by a range of player development protocols. In return for a number of key deliverables, the four regions will receive £6 million pounds annually from the WRU.
The past year has been one of mixed fortunes for our four regions. Cardiff Blues led the way by winning the EDF Energy Cup in style and took part in a dramatic Heineken Cup semi final. There is still much to play for this season and it has been heartening this past week to see the fans turn out in large numbers at the regional derby matches, something we must never take for granted. The systems and structures, along with new facilities being developed, and increased funding in the regions should make us feel confident about their future.
Defying the odds, and they were stacked 80 to 1 against us, it was fantastic to greet our triumphant Sevens squad when they returned home to Wales from Dubai in March as Rugby World Cup Sevens Champions. What a tribute to our players and coaches and what a signal for the future of the Sevens game in Wales. BBC Wales, at their annual sports personality awards evening, recognised the Sevens team, as "team of the year" and Paul John was a worthy recipient of the accolade of "coach of the year" from the Sports Council of Wales. The momentum created early in 2009 continued in the autumn with a new-look Wales Sevens team picking up the Bowl in the first two IRB tournaments. Now that Sevens is to become an Olympic Sport, its' importance in the international rugby framework is assured.
Our women also savoured sweet success this year when they won their first ever Triple Crown which meant they achieved their first ever victory over the powerful England team. It was their best season ever and they have qualified for next year's Women's Rugby World Cup.
Fifteen of our best players and seven of our coaching and management staff were selected for the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa. This fact should not be overlooked when we consider not only where we have come from in the past years but also what can lie ahead of us. We have a remarkable group of players, coaches and management at present in Wales.
The tour to North America led by Robin McBryde was also a success not only for its results but also for its player and coach development benefits.
The WRU distributed a record £17million to our affiliated organisations which represented a £1.8million increase on the previous year and I am pleased to say included a record £3.8million to the community game. In the year ahead I am personally committed to do more for grass roots rugby and we look forward to announcing a range of initiatives in the New Year.
The turnover of the WRU over the financial year was £49.4million, our second best after 2008, and the Union managed to further reduce its bank debt by £2.1million to a record ten year low of £39.7million. I have around me an outstanding group of executives who with their teams have delivered a spectacular business performance in the toughest of conditions in living memory.
My greatest regret of the year is however that we lost our close friend and colleague Mike Jefferies, WRU Head of Legal Affairs. His death in the summer was the most bitter of blows. He is fondly remembered and deeply missed by us all. His contribution to the business of the WRU was colossal.
The strength we now have in our structures and systems at the WRU enabled us to launch a major new initiative for rugby in North Wales by inviting Rugby Canada to send up to ten international players into the new development region to boost the Rygbi Gogledd Cymru representative squad, while introducing a North Wales academy to produce and develop home grown players for the future. These measures will ensure the team has the best possible chance of proving their status as a representative force for the future.
The hard work and energy of our North Wales Rugby Council and the outstanding support of the Conwy County Borough Council have been invaluable. Parc Eirias in Colwyn Bay is now the home of the RGC representative team and will undergo a £6.5 million development making it a truly important sporting venue for the north. This is part of our one Wales strategy for rugby.
On the field the past year also saw many new competition initiatives. The British and Irish Cup kicked off to offer our Principality Premiership clubs the opportunity to test themselves over the borders. This competition has the potential to be a major strand in our rugby development.
The SWALEC Cup, Plate and Bowl have also been revamped to give all community clubs a realistic chance of competing in a final at the Millennium Stadium. The first finals day proved to be a huge success this year creating an extraordinary and memorable day with Neath retaining the Cup, Ammanford claiming the Plate and Morriston the Bowl. The runners up were respectively, Llanelli, Risca and Lampeter Town.
Just outside our stadium the WRU unveiled the new Cardiff Arms store and café bar visitor centre which will offer great new opportunities for our commercial and hospitality teams. Over 40,000 people attended tours of the stadium this year. This new centre is the first phase in our plan to develop the land around our stadium.
It is sometimes forgotten that the WRU owns and manages the Millennium Stadium. And so it was rugby which gave Wales this past year its biggest ever single musical event. Over 73,000 people attended the U2 concert in August, following on from two nights of Take That, which welcomed 128,000 people to Cardiff and a night of Oasis which brought 60,000 people into the city.
2009 was the tenth birthday of the Millennium Stadium and it was celebrated in style with over one million paying spectators attending a range of events at the Stadium this year. It is by far Wales' most visited attraction and it delivers over £100 million pounds of economic benefit to the Cardiff area every year. It is the Millennium Commission's most successful project.
Let us not forget though that it has been a challenging twelve months for everyone in Wales as the economic recession has taken its toll. The future will continue to be economically tough for us all.
However I believe the WRU is now in the right shape to meet those challenges head on.
Both on the field and off it the WRU takes pride in being fit for purpose and ready to take every opportunity to move forward and achieve yet more success.
For Warren Gatland and his team it has been a year in which the national squad has made huge strides forward whilst also learning how to stay focused through setbacks.
I know the whole squad has the confidence to learn from any defeat they suffer and go forward unafraid to talk to each other about their will to win and their determination to achieve their goals.
They know that between now and the World Cup in 2011 there will no easy contests but the rugby public of Wales can be assured that they are treading the road to New Zealand with pride and confidence.
The first hurdle of the New Year against England in the RBS 6 Nations opener at Twickenham will not be easy, but Warren and his squad relish the challenge of taking on the top nations in order to grow as a team.
The 2010 RBS 6 Nations has certainly captured the imagination of the rugby public and we are confident the Welsh team will be cheered on at the Millennium Stadium in a crescendo of noise from huge crowds in our three home games of the competition.
A winning Wales, filling the Millennium Stadium drives Welsh rugby forward.
All that lies ahead, but for now I simply want to say thank you.
I want to give thanks to all the staff at the WRU, to the Board of directors and to the Chairman, David Pickering and President, Dennis Gethin for all their support and help.
A very special thank you must go out to our great fans and especially the wonderful volunteers in clubs throughout Wales who make our national sport what it is. My sincere gratitude goes to you all.
And let us not forget Gethin Jenkins words, "We cannot expect things to happen. We have got to make them happen."
So to everyone involved in Welsh rugby, have a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year and together let us make things happen once again in 2010.
Roger Lewis
Group Chief Executive, WRU
Ends
WRU PRESS RELEASEIssued: 30 December 2009
WRU New Year's Message
Making it happen by Roger Lewis
"We cannot expect things to happen. We have got to make them happen."
Those were the words of Wales prop Gethin Jenkins immediately after our defeat to Australia in the last match of the 2009 autumn test series; a series attended by almost 250,000 fans. The loss of that last game was a bitter blow to everyone, and particularly so for the players, coaches and back room staff. But it must not over shadow what has been a remarkable year for Welsh rugby.
In 2009 many people in Wales made things happen both on and off the pitch.
Today we can look forward to a New Year in which we will build on so many significant initiatives which have been launched or completed in the last twelve months.
At this time of year when we reflect on our fortunes I believe Welsh rugby has plenty to feel proud about.
The past year has roared past with the speed of a Shane Williams side step but the hard work has been worth it because we will reap the benefits for years, if not generations, to come.
We are constantly reshaping and restructuring Welsh rugby and the opening of the new multi-million pound WRU National Centre of Excellence in October was a major landmark for us all.
From now on all the WRU teams from under 18s through to senior level, Wales Sevens and Wales Women, will train and develop at the NCE in one of the world's finest, if not the finest rugby facilities. Indoor and outdoor training and playing surfaces are complemented with the latest technology and training equipment. All this supervised by a team of expert staff which is truly the envy of the rugby world. This will be the home of the new WRU National Academy.
The elite game in Wales was also strengthened when we signed the new five year Participation Agreement with our four Regions in September to create an operational roadmap which will help our players achieve their full potential. At the heart of this agreement is a commitment from the four regions to increase the number of Welsh qualifying players in their squads and reduce the number of non Welsh qualifying players, backed up by a range of player development protocols. In return for a number of key deliverables, the four regions will receive £6 million pounds annually from the WRU.
The past year has been one of mixed fortunes for our four regions. Cardiff Blues led the way by winning the EDF Energy Cup in style and took part in a dramatic Heineken Cup semi final. There is still much to play for this season and it has been heartening this past week to see the fans turn out in large numbers at the regional derby matches, something we must never take for granted. The systems and structures, along with new facilities being developed, and increased funding in the regions should make us feel confident about their future.
Defying the odds, and they were stacked 80 to 1 against us, it was fantastic to greet our triumphant Sevens squad when they returned home to Wales from Dubai in March as Rugby World Cup Sevens Champions. What a tribute to our players and coaches and what a signal for the future of the Sevens game in Wales. BBC Wales, at their annual sports personality awards evening, recognised the Sevens team, as "team of the year" and Paul John was a worthy recipient of the accolade of "coach of the year" from the Sports Council of Wales. The momentum created early in 2009 continued in the autumn with a new-look Wales Sevens team picking up the Bowl in the first two IRB tournaments. Now that Sevens is to become an Olympic Sport, its' importance in the international rugby framework is assured.
Our women also savoured sweet success this year when they won their first ever Triple Crown which meant they achieved their first ever victory over the powerful England team. It was their best season ever and they have qualified for next year's Women's Rugby World Cup.
Fifteen of our best players and seven of our coaching and management staff were selected for the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa. This fact should not be overlooked when we consider not only where we have come from in the past years but also what can lie ahead of us. We have a remarkable group of players, coaches and management at present in Wales.
The tour to North America led by Robin McBryde was also a success not only for its results but also for its player and coach development benefits.
The WRU distributed a record £17million to our affiliated organisations which represented a £1.8million increase on the previous year and I am pleased to say included a record £3.8million to the community game. In the year ahead I am personally committed to do more for grass roots rugby and we look forward to announcing a range of initiatives in the New Year.
The turnover of the WRU over the financial year was £49.4million, our second best after 2008, and the Union managed to further reduce its bank debt by £2.1million to a record ten year low of £39.7million. I have around me an outstanding group of executives who with their teams have delivered a spectacular business performance in the toughest of conditions in living memory.
My greatest regret of the year is however that we lost our close friend and colleague Mike Jefferies, WRU Head of Legal Affairs. His death in the summer was the most bitter of blows. He is fondly remembered and deeply missed by us all. His contribution to the business of the WRU was colossal.
The strength we now have in our structures and systems at the WRU enabled us to launch a major new initiative for rugby in North Wales by inviting Rugby Canada to send up to ten international players into the new development region to boost the Rygbi Gogledd Cymru representative squad, while introducing a North Wales academy to produce and develop home grown players for the future. These measures will ensure the team has the best possible chance of proving their status as a representative force for the future.
The hard work and energy of our North Wales Rugby Council and the outstanding support of the Conwy County Borough Council have been invaluable. Parc Eirias in Colwyn Bay is now the home of the RGC representative team and will undergo a £6.5 million development making it a truly important sporting venue for the north. This is part of our one Wales strategy for rugby.
On the field the past year also saw many new competition initiatives. The British and Irish Cup kicked off to offer our Principality Premiership clubs the opportunity to test themselves over the borders. This competition has the potential to be a major strand in our rugby development.
The SWALEC Cup, Plate and Bowl have also been revamped to give all community clubs a realistic chance of competing in a final at the Millennium Stadium. The first finals day proved to be a huge success this year creating an extraordinary and memorable day with Neath retaining the Cup, Ammanford claiming the Plate and Morriston the Bowl. The runners up were respectively, Llanelli, Risca and Lampeter Town.
Just outside our stadium the WRU unveiled the new Cardiff Arms store and café bar visitor centre which will offer great new opportunities for our commercial and hospitality teams. Over 40,000 people attended tours of the stadium this year. This new centre is the first phase in our plan to develop the land around our stadium.
It is sometimes forgotten that the WRU owns and manages the Millennium Stadium. And so it was rugby which gave Wales this past year its biggest ever single musical event. Over 73,000 people attended the U2 concert in August, following on from two nights of Take That, which welcomed 128,000 people to Cardiff and a night of Oasis which brought 60,000 people into the city.
2009 was the tenth birthday of the Millennium Stadium and it was celebrated in style with over one million paying spectators attending a range of events at the Stadium this year. It is by far Wales' most visited attraction and it delivers over £100 million pounds of economic benefit to the Cardiff area every year. It is the Millennium Commission's most successful project.
Let us not forget though that it has been a challenging twelve months for everyone in Wales as the economic recession has taken its toll. The future will continue to be economically tough for us all.
However I believe the WRU is now in the right shape to meet those challenges head on.
Both on the field and off it the WRU takes pride in being fit for purpose and ready to take every opportunity to move forward and achieve yet more success.
For Warren Gatland and his team it has been a year in which the national squad has made huge strides forward whilst also learning how to stay focused through setbacks.
I know the whole squad has the confidence to learn from any defeat they suffer and go forward unafraid to talk to each other about their will to win and their determination to achieve their goals.
They know that between now and the World Cup in 2011 there will no easy contests but the rugby public of Wales can be assured that they are treading the road to New Zealand with pride and confidence.
The first hurdle of the New Year against England in the RBS 6 Nations opener at Twickenham will not be easy, but Warren and his squad relish the challenge of taking on the top nations in order to grow as a team.
The 2010 RBS 6 Nations has certainly captured the imagination of the rugby public and we are confident the Welsh team will be cheered on at the Millennium Stadium in a crescendo of noise from huge crowds in our three home games of the competition.
A winning Wales, filling the Millennium Stadium drives Welsh rugby forward.
All that lies ahead, but for now I simply want to say thank you.
I want to give thanks to all the staff at the WRU, to the Board of directors and to the Chairman, David Pickering and President, Dennis Gethin for all their support and help.
A very special thank you must go out to our great fans and especially the wonderful volunteers in clubs throughout Wales who make our national sport what it is. My sincere gratitude goes to you all.
And let us not forget Gethin Jenkins words, "We cannot expect things to happen. We have got to make them happen."
So to everyone involved in Welsh rugby, have a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year and together let us make things happen once again in 2010.
Roger Lewis
Group Chief Executive, WRU
Ends
30.12.09
30.12.09 REFEREE APPOINTMENTS JAN 2010 (See also Referees Pages)
Saturday 2nd January 2010 Saturday 9th January 2010
Division 4 Referee Advisor Division 4 Referee Advisor
Caernarfon 2 v Ruthin 2 Ceirion Parry Ruthin 2 v Wrexham 2 Neil Edwards
Llangefni 2 v Harlech Daniel Doughty Mold 2 v Llangollen Richard R Davies
Flint v Nant Conwy 2 Colin Scott EH Menai Bridge v Abergele Teifion Thomas
Abergele v Denbigh 2 James Ryder Denbigh 2 v Flint Simon Dignam
Llangollen v Menai Bridge Derek Davies RM Nant Conwy 2 v Llangefni 2 Derek Davies
Wrexham 2 v Mold 2 Rhodri Gravell NT Harlech v Caernarfon 2 Colin Scott
GC Youth NE Cup Round 2 GC Youth NE
Welshpool v Llangollen/Dol Simon Morgan Colwyn Bay v Wrexham Ceirion Parry
Llandudno v Nant Conwy Craig Roberts MP Mold v Llangollen Alun Bagshaw
Pwllheli v Bangor David Owen Ruthin v Rhyl Rhodri Gravell
Denbigh v Bala Kev Ankers GW GC Youth NW
Llanidloes v Wrexham George Lloyd Caernarfon v Nant Conwy Emrys Owen
Llangefni v Mold Paul Hughes Llandudno v Llangefni Kevin Ankers
Rhyl v Cobra Simon Brittain MH Pwllheli v Bangor Graham Perch
Colwyn Bay v Caernarfon Tom Last FB GC Youth South
GC Youth NW Cup Plate Round 1 Bala v Dolgellau Simon Morgan
Ruthin v Bro Ffestiniog Tony Parry Llanidloes v Newtown Darrel Evans
Welshpool v Bro Ffestiniog George Lloyd
Mid Wales League Mid Wales League
Machynlleth v Newtown Graham Perch Cobra 2 v Aberystwyth 2 Simon Brittain
v Llanidloes 2 v Welshpool 2 Tony Parry
v v
GC Div 5 NE GC Div 5 NE
Corwen v Rhyl 2 Alun Bagshaw Rhyl 2 v Flint 2 Eirian Davies
Abergele 2 v Colwyn Bay 2 Alan Lewis Colwyn Bay 2 v Caer Borderers Robbie Shields
Shotton v Flint 2 Richard R Davies Shotton v Corwen Paul Hughes
GC Div 5 NW GC Div 5 NW
Bethesda 2 v Pwllheli 2 Teifion Thomas Benllech v Dolgellau 2 Alan Lewis
Bala 2 v Holyhead Simon Dignam Pwllheli 2 v Bangor 2 Ceirion Parry
Llangoed v Bro Ffestiniog Sion Wynne Holyhead v Bethesda 2 David Owen
Bangor 2 c/o v Benllech Bro Ffestiniog 2 v Bala 2 Tom Last
Saturday 16th January 2010 ` Saturday 23rd January 2010
Division 4 Referee Advisor Division 4 Referee Advisor
Ruthin 2 v Mold 2 Colin Scott Llangefni 2 v Ruthin 2 Rhodri Gravell
Menai Bridge v Wrexham 2 Ceirion Parry Flint v Caernarfon 2 Eirian Davies
Denbigh 2 v Llangollen Simon Brittain Abergele v Harlech James Ryder
Nant Conwy 2 v Abergele Emrys Owen Llangollen v Nant Conwy 2 Tom Last
Harlech v Flint Tom Last Wrexham 2 v Denbigh 2 Sion Wynne
Caernarfon 2 v Llangefni 2 Simon Dignam Mold 2 v Menai Bridge Neil Edwards
GC Youth NE GC Youth NE
v Llangollen v Denbigh Simon Brittain
v Rhyl v Mold Colin Scott
v Wrexham v Ruthin Tony Parry
GC Youth NW GC Youth NW
v Bangor v Llandudno Simon Dignam
v Llangefni v Caernarfon Richard R Davies
v v
GC Youth South GC Youth South
v Bro Ffestiniog v Bala George Lloyd
v Dolgellau v Cobra Graham Perch
v Newtown v Welshpool Simon Morgan
Mid Wales League Mid Wales League
Welshpool 2 v Newtown Neil Edwards v
v v
v v
GC Div 5 NE GC Div 5 NE
v Caer Borderers v Rhyl 2 Alun Bagshaw
v Flint 2 v Colwyn Bay 2 Kevin Ankers
v Abergele 2 v Shotton Craig Roberts
GC Div 5 NW GC Div 5 NW
Bethesda 2 v Bro Ffestiniog Teifion Thomas Holyhead v Dolgellau 2 Paul Hughes
Bangor 2 v Holyhead Richard R Davies Bro Ffestiniog 2 v Bangor 2 Teifion Thomas
Dolgellau 2 v Pwllheli 2 Craig Roberts Bala 2 v Bethesda 2 David Owen
Llangoed v Bala 2 Paul Hughes Benllech v Llangoed Emrys Owen
Saturday 30th January 2010 Referee Adviser Saturday 30th January contd Referee Adviser
Division Four
Ruthin 2 v Menai Bridge James Ryder
Denbigh 2 v Mold 2 George Lloyd
Nant Conwy 2 v Wrexham 2 Simon Dignam Mid Wales League
Harlech v Llangollen Ceirion Parry Llanidloes 2 v Builth 2 Darrel Evans
Caernarfon 2 v Abergele Tom Last Newtown 2 v Aberystwyth 2 Simon Brittain
Llangefni 2 v Flint Richard R Davies Tref y Clawdd v Aber University Paul Hughes MP
Welshpool 2 v Rhayader Tony Parry
GC Youth NE GC Div 5 NE
v Colwyn Bay 2 v Rhyl 2 Alan Lewis
v Corwen v Caer Borderers Alun Bagshaw
v Flint 2 v Abergele 2 David Owen
GC Youth NW
v GC Div 5 NW
v Benllech v Pwllheli 2 Emrys Owen
v Llangoed v Bethesda 2 Teifion Thomas
GC Youth South Bangor 2 v Bala 2 Emrys Owen
v Dolgellau 2 v Bro Ffestiniog 2 Craig Roberts
Division 4 Referee Advisor Division 4 Referee Advisor
Caernarfon 2 v Ruthin 2 Ceirion Parry Ruthin 2 v Wrexham 2 Neil Edwards
Llangefni 2 v Harlech Daniel Doughty Mold 2 v Llangollen Richard R Davies
Flint v Nant Conwy 2 Colin Scott EH Menai Bridge v Abergele Teifion Thomas
Abergele v Denbigh 2 James Ryder Denbigh 2 v Flint Simon Dignam
Llangollen v Menai Bridge Derek Davies RM Nant Conwy 2 v Llangefni 2 Derek Davies
Wrexham 2 v Mold 2 Rhodri Gravell NT Harlech v Caernarfon 2 Colin Scott
GC Youth NE Cup Round 2 GC Youth NE
Welshpool v Llangollen/Dol Simon Morgan Colwyn Bay v Wrexham Ceirion Parry
Llandudno v Nant Conwy Craig Roberts MP Mold v Llangollen Alun Bagshaw
Pwllheli v Bangor David Owen Ruthin v Rhyl Rhodri Gravell
Denbigh v Bala Kev Ankers GW GC Youth NW
Llanidloes v Wrexham George Lloyd Caernarfon v Nant Conwy Emrys Owen
Llangefni v Mold Paul Hughes Llandudno v Llangefni Kevin Ankers
Rhyl v Cobra Simon Brittain MH Pwllheli v Bangor Graham Perch
Colwyn Bay v Caernarfon Tom Last FB GC Youth South
GC Youth NW Cup Plate Round 1 Bala v Dolgellau Simon Morgan
Ruthin v Bro Ffestiniog Tony Parry Llanidloes v Newtown Darrel Evans
Welshpool v Bro Ffestiniog George Lloyd
Mid Wales League Mid Wales League
Machynlleth v Newtown Graham Perch Cobra 2 v Aberystwyth 2 Simon Brittain
v Llanidloes 2 v Welshpool 2 Tony Parry
v v
GC Div 5 NE GC Div 5 NE
Corwen v Rhyl 2 Alun Bagshaw Rhyl 2 v Flint 2 Eirian Davies
Abergele 2 v Colwyn Bay 2 Alan Lewis Colwyn Bay 2 v Caer Borderers Robbie Shields
Shotton v Flint 2 Richard R Davies Shotton v Corwen Paul Hughes
GC Div 5 NW GC Div 5 NW
Bethesda 2 v Pwllheli 2 Teifion Thomas Benllech v Dolgellau 2 Alan Lewis
Bala 2 v Holyhead Simon Dignam Pwllheli 2 v Bangor 2 Ceirion Parry
Llangoed v Bro Ffestiniog Sion Wynne Holyhead v Bethesda 2 David Owen
Bangor 2 c/o v Benllech Bro Ffestiniog 2 v Bala 2 Tom Last
Saturday 16th January 2010 ` Saturday 23rd January 2010
Division 4 Referee Advisor Division 4 Referee Advisor
Ruthin 2 v Mold 2 Colin Scott Llangefni 2 v Ruthin 2 Rhodri Gravell
Menai Bridge v Wrexham 2 Ceirion Parry Flint v Caernarfon 2 Eirian Davies
Denbigh 2 v Llangollen Simon Brittain Abergele v Harlech James Ryder
Nant Conwy 2 v Abergele Emrys Owen Llangollen v Nant Conwy 2 Tom Last
Harlech v Flint Tom Last Wrexham 2 v Denbigh 2 Sion Wynne
Caernarfon 2 v Llangefni 2 Simon Dignam Mold 2 v Menai Bridge Neil Edwards
GC Youth NE GC Youth NE
v Llangollen v Denbigh Simon Brittain
v Rhyl v Mold Colin Scott
v Wrexham v Ruthin Tony Parry
GC Youth NW GC Youth NW
v Bangor v Llandudno Simon Dignam
v Llangefni v Caernarfon Richard R Davies
v v
GC Youth South GC Youth South
v Bro Ffestiniog v Bala George Lloyd
v Dolgellau v Cobra Graham Perch
v Newtown v Welshpool Simon Morgan
Mid Wales League Mid Wales League
Welshpool 2 v Newtown Neil Edwards v
v v
v v
GC Div 5 NE GC Div 5 NE
v Caer Borderers v Rhyl 2 Alun Bagshaw
v Flint 2 v Colwyn Bay 2 Kevin Ankers
v Abergele 2 v Shotton Craig Roberts
GC Div 5 NW GC Div 5 NW
Bethesda 2 v Bro Ffestiniog Teifion Thomas Holyhead v Dolgellau 2 Paul Hughes
Bangor 2 v Holyhead Richard R Davies Bro Ffestiniog 2 v Bangor 2 Teifion Thomas
Dolgellau 2 v Pwllheli 2 Craig Roberts Bala 2 v Bethesda 2 David Owen
Llangoed v Bala 2 Paul Hughes Benllech v Llangoed Emrys Owen
Saturday 30th January 2010 Referee Adviser Saturday 30th January contd Referee Adviser
Division Four
Ruthin 2 v Menai Bridge James Ryder
Denbigh 2 v Mold 2 George Lloyd
Nant Conwy 2 v Wrexham 2 Simon Dignam Mid Wales League
Harlech v Llangollen Ceirion Parry Llanidloes 2 v Builth 2 Darrel Evans
Caernarfon 2 v Abergele Tom Last Newtown 2 v Aberystwyth 2 Simon Brittain
Llangefni 2 v Flint Richard R Davies Tref y Clawdd v Aber University Paul Hughes MP
Welshpool 2 v Rhayader Tony Parry
GC Youth NE GC Div 5 NE
v Colwyn Bay 2 v Rhyl 2 Alan Lewis
v Corwen v Caer Borderers Alun Bagshaw
v Flint 2 v Abergele 2 David Owen
GC Youth NW
v GC Div 5 NW
v Benllech v Pwllheli 2 Emrys Owen
v Llangoed v Bethesda 2 Teifion Thomas
GC Youth South Bangor 2 v Bala 2 Emrys Owen
v Dolgellau 2 v Bro Ffestiniog 2 Craig Roberts
29.12.09
29.12.09 RUGBY PAPER ON GOGLEDD CYMRU
Hi,
I don't know if you think worth posting on the website,but there is a good,and comparitively lengthy article,about Gogledd Cymru in this weeks edition of 'The Rugby Paper'.
Follow the link to www.therugbypaper.co.uk
Best wishes
Will Morcombe
I don't know if you think worth posting on the website,but there is a good,and comparitively lengthy article,about Gogledd Cymru in this weeks edition of 'The Rugby Paper'.
Follow the link to www.therugbypaper.co.uk
Best wishes
Will Morcombe
29.12.09 TONY GRAY ENTERS HALL OF FAME
LINK :http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northwest/halloffame/sport/tony_gray.shtml
Tony Gray
Tony Gray was a Wales rugby international before becoming the national team coach and taking Wales to third place in the 1987 Rugby World Cup.
Born:14 JUN 1942
Place of Birth: Bangor
School: Ysgol y Garth, Ysgol Friars
Trivia: Tony was named European coach of the year in 1988.
Biography: I was brought up in Bangor and started playing my rugby at school as a centre. I played for Bangor Rugby Club, when it was based at a ground in Beaumaris!
Then I went to college in Cardiff and moved to play in the back row. College rugby was a bit different to the level I'd been playing at during my schooldays, as was moving on to the London Welsh team. I was there at a really exciting period in Welsh rugby; from 1964 to 1976, and became captain in 1971. I was on the same team as players like JPR Williams, Gerald Davies, John Dawes and Mervyn Davies, all Welsh internationals. I particularly loved the fixtures against the Welsh teams over Christmas and Easter. It's a tradition they don't follow anymore.
I played for Wales in 1968 against England, Scotland and Argentina. Playing England at Twickenham is such a huge game and it was definitely a really proud moment for me.
I stayed in rugby after retiring from playing, and became Wales coach in 1985 at a really exciting period in the game. We had a group of really talented young players like Jonathan Davies, Robert Jones and Dai Young. It took a bit of time to settle down, but we were heading in the right direction.
We went to the first Rugby World Cup hosted by new Zealand and Australia in 1987, just off the back of winning the triple crown. We had no idea how big a tournament it would become; we had the Five Nations, but nothing like that. We lost heavily to the eventual winners, New Zealand, in the semi finals but did beat Australia in the game for third place.
I finished as Wales coach in 1988, just a year before lots of those great young players went north to play Rugby League. I became a lecturer in the Sports Science department of Bangor University before retiring.
I'm now President of the North Wales Rugby Union. Rugby in north Wales is progressing well - great strides have been made over the last few years. The game is now professional, so the biggest obstacle will be finance, but I am really excited to see the North Wales Regional team get together. The Welsh Rugby Union have realised that there's talent in North Wales and are now doing far more to develop it. This is shown in the increasing amount of players we have involved in the Wales junior teams.
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Dave Brailsford
Dewi Bebb
Jack Evans
Joey Jones
John Bailey
Matthew Maynard
Mickey Thomas
Neville Southall
Raymond Williams
Richard Tudor
Robin McBryde
Tony Gray
Tracey Morris
Wayne Hennessey
Wilfred Wooller
Wyn Davies
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Tony Gray
Tony Gray was a Wales rugby international before becoming the national team coach and taking Wales to third place in the 1987 Rugby World Cup.
Born:14 JUN 1942
Place of Birth: Bangor
School: Ysgol y Garth, Ysgol Friars
Trivia: Tony was named European coach of the year in 1988.
Biography: I was brought up in Bangor and started playing my rugby at school as a centre. I played for Bangor Rugby Club, when it was based at a ground in Beaumaris!
Then I went to college in Cardiff and moved to play in the back row. College rugby was a bit different to the level I'd been playing at during my schooldays, as was moving on to the London Welsh team. I was there at a really exciting period in Welsh rugby; from 1964 to 1976, and became captain in 1971. I was on the same team as players like JPR Williams, Gerald Davies, John Dawes and Mervyn Davies, all Welsh internationals. I particularly loved the fixtures against the Welsh teams over Christmas and Easter. It's a tradition they don't follow anymore.
I played for Wales in 1968 against England, Scotland and Argentina. Playing England at Twickenham is such a huge game and it was definitely a really proud moment for me.
I stayed in rugby after retiring from playing, and became Wales coach in 1985 at a really exciting period in the game. We had a group of really talented young players like Jonathan Davies, Robert Jones and Dai Young. It took a bit of time to settle down, but we were heading in the right direction.
We went to the first Rugby World Cup hosted by new Zealand and Australia in 1987, just off the back of winning the triple crown. We had no idea how big a tournament it would become; we had the Five Nations, but nothing like that. We lost heavily to the eventual winners, New Zealand, in the semi finals but did beat Australia in the game for third place.
I finished as Wales coach in 1988, just a year before lots of those great young players went north to play Rugby League. I became a lecturer in the Sports Science department of Bangor University before retiring.
I'm now President of the North Wales Rugby Union. Rugby in north Wales is progressing well - great strides have been made over the last few years. The game is now professional, so the biggest obstacle will be finance, but I am really excited to see the North Wales Regional team get together. The Welsh Rugby Union have realised that there's talent in North Wales and are now doing far more to develop it. This is shown in the increasing amount of players we have involved in the Wales junior teams.
more from this section
Sport
Becky Brewerton
Dave Brailsford
Dewi Bebb
Jack Evans
Joey Jones
John Bailey
Matthew Maynard
Mickey Thomas
Neville Southall
Raymond Williams
Richard Tudor
Robin McBryde
Tony Gray
Tracey Morris
Wayne Hennessey
Wilfred Wooller
Wyn Davies
Hall of Fame
Arts
Public Life
Showbiz
Sport
related bbc.co.uk links
Rugby index
Wales rugby
related www links
North Wales Rugby
About the BBC
Help
Terms of Use
Privacy & Cookies Policy
29.12.09 GIRLS RUGBY FESTIVAL AT COLWYN BAY JAN 10, 2010
GIRLS RUGBY FESTIVAL at COLWYN BAY RUGBY CLUB ON
SUNDAY JANUARY 10th 2010 at 1.30pm.
For further details please contact Ann Tilakawardane at Colwyn Bay Rugby Club
Team enquiries: ann@colwynbayrugby.co.uk
SUNDAY JANUARY 10th 2010 at 1.30pm.
For further details please contact Ann Tilakawardane at Colwyn Bay Rugby Club
Team enquiries: ann@colwynbayrugby.co.uk
29.12.09 Women's and Girls Rugby 2010
Ladies/Gents,
With the introduction of 7’s to the Olympic Games, several Women’s and Girl’s events have been planned for this season.
Girls 7’s Festival, Colwyn Bay RFC, Sunday 10th January (poster attached)
Women’s 7’s Festival, Bala RFC, Sunday 24th January (more details to follow)
Girls 7’s Festival, Nant Conwy RFC, Sunday 21st February
Women’s 7’s Festival, Ruthin RFC, Sunday 11th April
For more details please contact me or Nicola Smith NSmith@wru.co.uk
Best Regards,
Dai Higgs
WRU Rugby Development Officer
Gogledd Cymru South / De Gogledd Cymru
With the introduction of 7’s to the Olympic Games, several Women’s and Girl’s events have been planned for this season.
Girls 7’s Festival, Colwyn Bay RFC, Sunday 10th January (poster attached)
Women’s 7’s Festival, Bala RFC, Sunday 24th January (more details to follow)
Girls 7’s Festival, Nant Conwy RFC, Sunday 21st February
Women’s 7’s Festival, Ruthin RFC, Sunday 11th April
For more details please contact me or Nicola Smith NSmith@wru.co.uk
Best Regards,
Dai Higgs
WRU Rugby Development Officer
Gogledd Cymru South / De Gogledd Cymru
22.12.09
22,12.09.Rhodri,James,David and Joel in Wales U20 6 Nations Squad.
Wales' Under 20 home Six Nations games will be played at Cardiff Arms Park this season, the Friday fixtures forming a perfect kick-off to Six Nations weekends in the capital city.
Phil Davies' side will play their first home game of the international season against Scotland on Friday, 12 February, 7.10pm. They host France on Friday 26 February (3.30pm) ahead of the Friday night Millennium Stadium clash against Les Bleus at 8pm, while Italy Under 20s will be the opposition for the upcoming Welsh talent on Friday 19 March (7.10pm).
Wales Under 20 head coach Davies said, "Cardiff is the central attraction in Wales on a Six Nations weekend and we hope that Welsh fans and those of our opposition will support the next generation of talent at the Arms Park this season. Our matches will kick off the Six Nations weekends and I'm sure holding the games at the Arms Park will add something extra to the occasion, turning the whole weekend into a festival of rugby."
Davies today named his 26 man Six Nations squad, with 50% of the players having gained experience at this level last season.
He also named sixteen further players (eight reserve players and eight others who are part of the wider squad) who could come into contention depending on fitness and form of themselves and the players named in the initial group.
Twelve of the squad have gained professional experience - Blues trio Rhys Williams, Josh Navidi and Rhys Downes, Ospreys pair James King and Matthew Jarvis, Dragons Dan Watchurst, Toby Faletau, James Thomas and Matthew Pewtner, Bristol's Jack Gadd and Scarlets Gareth Davies and Simon Gardiner.
Davies said, "There is added experience in the side this year and we have also built some extra strength in depth into the squad with quality new players coming into the group. Wayne Proctor has done a lot of conditioning work with some of our developing players to raise their standards and Tavis Knoyle and Ashley Beck, although still eligible for this age group, have moved into the professional Regional system which is a positive reflection on the international player pathway and the Regions.
"We are thrilled with the support we have received from the Regions and especially the WRU Regional Performance Managers who work with our young players on a daily basis.
"The Under 20 Six Nations is the next step on the educational pathway for these players. We have had a number of excellent training sessions building on our Regional skills interventions and I'm confident we are where we want to be as we move into the New Year."
Wales Under 20 Six Nations squad 2010:
Forwards: Dan Watchurst (Dragons academy / Bedwas), Lewis Smout (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Simon Gardiner (Scarlets academy / Carmarthen Quins), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets academy / Llandovery), Rhys Williams (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Ieuan Davies ( Glamorgan Wanderers), James King (Ospreys academy / Aberavon), Macauley Cook (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Lloyd Peers (Ospreys academy / Bridgend), James Thomas (Dragons academy / Ebbw Vale), Edward Siggery (Llandovery), Josh Navidi (Blues academy / Glamorgan Wanderers), Toby Faletau (Dragons academy / Cross Keys), Morgan Allen (Pontypool)
Backs:
Rhys Downes (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Gareth Davies (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Matthew Jarvis (Ospreys / Aberavon), Steven Shingler (Llanelli / Llangennech), Scott Williams (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Owen Williams (Blues academy / Cardiff), Jack Gadd (Bristol), Matthew Pewtner (Dragons / Cross Keys), James Loxton (Blues academy / Cardiff), Kristian Phillips (Ospreys academy / Neath), Dan Fish (Blues academy / Glamorgan Wanderers), Lee Rees (Scarlets academy/ Llandovery)
Reserve players:
David Blackwell (Gogledd Cymru), Tristan Davies (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Joel Galley (Scarlets/ Llangennech), Rhys Jenkins (Dragons academy/ Ebbw Vale), Ben Thomas (Ospreys / Aberavon), Dean Gunter (Pontypridd), Adam Hughes (Dragons academy/ Newport), Ben John (Ospreys / Aberavon)
Wider squad players:
Will Taylor (Ospreys /Bonymaen), Greg George (Llandovery/ Llangennech), Rhydian Wilson (Dragons academy / Newbridge), Ellis Lloyd (Carmarthen Quins), Daniel Davies (Ospreys), Lewis Robling (Dragons academy/ Newbridge), Dale Ford (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Nicky Williams (Dragons academy / Pontypool)
For further information, contact Liz Jones, WRU Communications Manager tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
Phil Davies' side will play their first home game of the international season against Scotland on Friday, 12 February, 7.10pm. They host France on Friday 26 February (3.30pm) ahead of the Friday night Millennium Stadium clash against Les Bleus at 8pm, while Italy Under 20s will be the opposition for the upcoming Welsh talent on Friday 19 March (7.10pm).
Wales Under 20 head coach Davies said, "Cardiff is the central attraction in Wales on a Six Nations weekend and we hope that Welsh fans and those of our opposition will support the next generation of talent at the Arms Park this season. Our matches will kick off the Six Nations weekends and I'm sure holding the games at the Arms Park will add something extra to the occasion, turning the whole weekend into a festival of rugby."
Davies today named his 26 man Six Nations squad, with 50% of the players having gained experience at this level last season.
He also named sixteen further players (eight reserve players and eight others who are part of the wider squad) who could come into contention depending on fitness and form of themselves and the players named in the initial group.
Twelve of the squad have gained professional experience - Blues trio Rhys Williams, Josh Navidi and Rhys Downes, Ospreys pair James King and Matthew Jarvis, Dragons Dan Watchurst, Toby Faletau, James Thomas and Matthew Pewtner, Bristol's Jack Gadd and Scarlets Gareth Davies and Simon Gardiner.
Davies said, "There is added experience in the side this year and we have also built some extra strength in depth into the squad with quality new players coming into the group. Wayne Proctor has done a lot of conditioning work with some of our developing players to raise their standards and Tavis Knoyle and Ashley Beck, although still eligible for this age group, have moved into the professional Regional system which is a positive reflection on the international player pathway and the Regions.
"We are thrilled with the support we have received from the Regions and especially the WRU Regional Performance Managers who work with our young players on a daily basis.
"The Under 20 Six Nations is the next step on the educational pathway for these players. We have had a number of excellent training sessions building on our Regional skills interventions and I'm confident we are where we want to be as we move into the New Year."
Wales Under 20 Six Nations squad 2010:
Forwards: Dan Watchurst (Dragons academy / Bedwas), Lewis Smout (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Simon Gardiner (Scarlets academy / Carmarthen Quins), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets academy / Llandovery), Rhys Williams (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Ieuan Davies ( Glamorgan Wanderers), James King (Ospreys academy / Aberavon), Macauley Cook (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Lloyd Peers (Ospreys academy / Bridgend), James Thomas (Dragons academy / Ebbw Vale), Edward Siggery (Llandovery), Josh Navidi (Blues academy / Glamorgan Wanderers), Toby Faletau (Dragons academy / Cross Keys), Morgan Allen (Pontypool)
Backs:
Rhys Downes (Blues academy / Pontypridd), Gareth Davies (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Matthew Jarvis (Ospreys / Aberavon), Steven Shingler (Llanelli / Llangennech), Scott Williams (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Owen Williams (Blues academy / Cardiff), Jack Gadd (Bristol), Matthew Pewtner (Dragons / Cross Keys), James Loxton (Blues academy / Cardiff), Kristian Phillips (Ospreys academy / Neath), Dan Fish (Blues academy / Glamorgan Wanderers), Lee Rees (Scarlets academy/ Llandovery)
Reserve players:
David Blackwell (Gogledd Cymru), Tristan Davies (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Joel Galley (Scarlets/ Llangennech), Rhys Jenkins (Dragons academy/ Ebbw Vale), Ben Thomas (Ospreys / Aberavon), Dean Gunter (Pontypridd), Adam Hughes (Dragons academy/ Newport), Ben John (Ospreys / Aberavon)
Wider squad players:
Will Taylor (Ospreys /Bonymaen), Greg George (Llandovery/ Llangennech), Rhydian Wilson (Dragons academy / Newbridge), Ellis Lloyd (Carmarthen Quins), Daniel Davies (Ospreys), Lewis Robling (Dragons academy/ Newbridge), Dale Ford (Scarlets academy / Llanelli), Nicky Williams (Dragons academy / Pontypool)
For further information, contact Liz Jones, WRU Communications Manager tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
20.12.09
20.12.09 Llangefni v Nant Conwy - Adroddiad Ifor Glyn Report
Clwb Rygbi Nant Conwy
Sadwrn / Saturday 19.12.09 Llangefni 22 v nant Conwy 7
Cwpan Gogledd Cymru / North Wales Cup: rownd 1 round (Cymal 1 / 1st Leg)
Sgorwyr Nant:
Cais / Try: Carwyn Ellis
Trosi / Conversion: Llywarch ap Myrddin
Am ryw reswm, gorfodwyd Nant i chwarae’r gêm hon ar y diwrnod serch i’r clwb wneud cais i ohirio oherwydd nad oedd rhaid chwarae’r gêm tan ddiwedd Chwefror 2010
Oherwydd hynny, penderfynwyd rhoi cyfle i wyth o chwaraewyr rin tim Ieuenctid ac o ddan yr amgylchiadau, rhoddodd yr holl dim berfformiad da – cyfle a fydd yn rhoi profiad gwerthfawr i nifer o chwarewyr ifanc. Nant oedd yn pwyso drwy’r hanner cyntaf gan fynd i sgorio ddwywaith. Daeth y cas haeddiannol wrth i’r pac wthio trosodd a Charwyn yn tirio’r bel. Trosiad hawdd i Llywarch. Yna yn syth o’r ail ddechrau bron, trawyd cic amddiffynnol Llywarch i lawr a sgoriodd y tim cartref gais a droswyd.
Sgôr o 7 - 7 ar yr hanner felly.
Cic gosb i Langefni ar ol 5 munud o’r ail hanner cyn iddynt sgorio cais pur amheus ar ol 20 munud. Troswyd hwn eto. Aeth pennau rhai o’r ieuenctid i lawr wedi hyn ac nid oedd yn syndod gweld Llangefni’n sgorio’u trydydd cais – un hynod debyg i gais nant gyda 6 munud ar ol. Troswyd hwn i wneud sgor ar ddiwedd y cymal cyntaf yn 22 – 7 i Langefni.
Ar hyn o bryd, ni benderfynwyd ar ddyddiad i gynnal yr ail gymal yn Nant. Y gem gynghrair nesaf fydd i ffwrdd yn Rhuthun ar y 9fed Ionawr 2010.
Dymuna swyddogion a chwaraewyr nant Conwy Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda yn 2010 i holl ddarllenwyr yr adroddiad yma a holl gefnogwyr y Clwb.
For some reason, Nant were forced to play this match today although the Club had asked for the match to be postponed as the final date for the completion of round 1 is the 28th February 2010.
Because of this decision, Nant had to field eight members of their Youth side and, under those circumstances the team gave a good account of themselves. The experience will be a useful one for the young players and will hold the first team in good stead in future years. Nant pressed throughout the first half and spurned two good scoring opportunities before the pack pushed their way over for Carwyn Ellis to touch down after30 minutes play. Llywarch converted. Immediately from the re start, Llywarch’s clearing kick was charged down and the Llangefni no. 12 scored a try that was duly converted.
A score of 7 – 7 at half time then.
Llangefni went ahead due to a successful penalty attempt after 5 minutes of the second half. Then after twenty minutes play Llangefni were awarded a rather dubious try that was again converted. The heads of some of the Nant youngsters went down a bit after this and it was no surprise that Llangefni scored a similar try to the Nant one with 6 minutes left. This try was also converted making a final score of 22 – 7 to the home side.
At the time of writing, the date for the second leg at Nant has not been decided. Nant’s next league match will be on the 9th January 2010 away at Ruthin.
Nant’s officials and players wish everybody that reads this account and all the Club’s supporters a merry Christmas and an excellent new year when it arrives.
Ifor Glyn (Ysgrifennydd / Secretary)
Sadwrn / Saturday 19.12.09 Llangefni 22 v nant Conwy 7
Cwpan Gogledd Cymru / North Wales Cup: rownd 1 round (Cymal 1 / 1st Leg)
Sgorwyr Nant:
Cais / Try: Carwyn Ellis
Trosi / Conversion: Llywarch ap Myrddin
Am ryw reswm, gorfodwyd Nant i chwarae’r gêm hon ar y diwrnod serch i’r clwb wneud cais i ohirio oherwydd nad oedd rhaid chwarae’r gêm tan ddiwedd Chwefror 2010
Oherwydd hynny, penderfynwyd rhoi cyfle i wyth o chwaraewyr rin tim Ieuenctid ac o ddan yr amgylchiadau, rhoddodd yr holl dim berfformiad da – cyfle a fydd yn rhoi profiad gwerthfawr i nifer o chwarewyr ifanc. Nant oedd yn pwyso drwy’r hanner cyntaf gan fynd i sgorio ddwywaith. Daeth y cas haeddiannol wrth i’r pac wthio trosodd a Charwyn yn tirio’r bel. Trosiad hawdd i Llywarch. Yna yn syth o’r ail ddechrau bron, trawyd cic amddiffynnol Llywarch i lawr a sgoriodd y tim cartref gais a droswyd.
Sgôr o 7 - 7 ar yr hanner felly.
Cic gosb i Langefni ar ol 5 munud o’r ail hanner cyn iddynt sgorio cais pur amheus ar ol 20 munud. Troswyd hwn eto. Aeth pennau rhai o’r ieuenctid i lawr wedi hyn ac nid oedd yn syndod gweld Llangefni’n sgorio’u trydydd cais – un hynod debyg i gais nant gyda 6 munud ar ol. Troswyd hwn i wneud sgor ar ddiwedd y cymal cyntaf yn 22 – 7 i Langefni.
Ar hyn o bryd, ni benderfynwyd ar ddyddiad i gynnal yr ail gymal yn Nant. Y gem gynghrair nesaf fydd i ffwrdd yn Rhuthun ar y 9fed Ionawr 2010.
Dymuna swyddogion a chwaraewyr nant Conwy Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda yn 2010 i holl ddarllenwyr yr adroddiad yma a holl gefnogwyr y Clwb.
For some reason, Nant were forced to play this match today although the Club had asked for the match to be postponed as the final date for the completion of round 1 is the 28th February 2010.
Because of this decision, Nant had to field eight members of their Youth side and, under those circumstances the team gave a good account of themselves. The experience will be a useful one for the young players and will hold the first team in good stead in future years. Nant pressed throughout the first half and spurned two good scoring opportunities before the pack pushed their way over for Carwyn Ellis to touch down after30 minutes play. Llywarch converted. Immediately from the re start, Llywarch’s clearing kick was charged down and the Llangefni no. 12 scored a try that was duly converted.
A score of 7 – 7 at half time then.
Llangefni went ahead due to a successful penalty attempt after 5 minutes of the second half. Then after twenty minutes play Llangefni were awarded a rather dubious try that was again converted. The heads of some of the Nant youngsters went down a bit after this and it was no surprise that Llangefni scored a similar try to the Nant one with 6 minutes left. This try was also converted making a final score of 22 – 7 to the home side.
At the time of writing, the date for the second leg at Nant has not been decided. Nant’s next league match will be on the 9th January 2010 away at Ruthin.
Nant’s officials and players wish everybody that reads this account and all the Club’s supporters a merry Christmas and an excellent new year when it arrives.
Ifor Glyn (Ysgrifennydd / Secretary)
19.12.09
19.12.09 URGENT NEWS - U16s and U18s MATCHES OFF
16s & 18s games this weekend have ben called off due to the weather.
Will
Will
19.12.09 URGENT NEWS UNDER 20 MATCH POSTPONED .
"The game against Lancashire U20s due tomorrow has been cancelled due to extreme weather".
John Oakden
John Oakden
18.12.09
18.12.09. Scarlets v Leinster preview
18 December 2009, 11:02 amBy Editor
Davies names Scarlets line-up for Leinster away
The Scarlets have named their starting line-up for the return Heineken Cup clash at the RDS in Dublin on Saturday.
Head Coach Nigel Davies has opted to bring in Rhys Priestland at full back behind British Lions and Wales international fly half Stephen Jones while centre partnerships of Jonathan Davies and Sean Lamont remain unchanged.
Andy Fenby stays on the wing after showing his potential last weekend with Darren Daniel brought in at 14. Daniel, who scored a try in his first start for the region against Worcester in November, has recorded an impressive string of tries in his recent appearances in the premiership for Carmarthen Quins with five tries in two games.
Flanker Johnathan Edwards gets his first start for the region in the European campaign.
Nigel Davies said: “This will be another big game for a number of our younger players who are new to the rigours of the Heineken Cup. It will be a true test of character and spirit after last weekend’s result but the disappointment from our last performance has now been replaced by a desire to go out to Dublin and show what this Scarlets team is capable of.
“We are now just focused on putting in a good performance at the weekend and we have everything to play for.
“We have got to bring an intensity and an accuracy to our play that we didn’t have for large parts of our game last weekend. We need to be much more clinical on Saturday. If you are going to beat Leinster at their home, you have got to be on top of your game – not a few per cent off.
“We’ve made a couple of changes which is part of our aim to look to develop competition within this squad and if players are a couple of per cent off then others pushing for places will be given their chance.”
Former Scarlets captain and now player coach Simon Easterby said that his team would look to take their chances and stand up to the stature and experience of the Leinster line-up.
He said: “Last weekend was a big anti-climax for us and we made hard work for ourselves - we gave them a lot and we created a lot but we didn’t take our chances. We gave them a couple of soft tries and what this group learnt hard last weekend is that you can’t switch off against Leinster.
The experienced former Irish international said: “This will be a tough hunting ground for us, but we need to get a win or at the very least come away with something to keep our round four and five hopes alive – there is still plenty to play for.
“We must have a street wise mentality. Leinster know how to win we can’t let them get too far ahead like last weekend – we will need to match them and stay in the game.”The Leinster squad to face the Scarlets in Saturday afternoon's Heineken Cup round 4 clash in the RDS (KO: 3.45pm) has been named.
Gordon D'Arcy, Shane Horgan, Sean O'Brien and Shaun Berne - each try scorers in last weekend's victory in Parc Y Scarlets - are included in the panel for Saturday's return fixture in the RDS. Jamie Heaslip, who made his 100th appearance for the province last weekend, is one of seven Ireland international forwards in the panel.
Rhys Ruddock - who made his debut in the recent Magners League game against the Dragons - joins Chris Keane, Simon Keogh, Ronan McCormack and Devin Toner in the extended panel which is expected to be reduced on Friday lunchtime.
Leinster squad to face the Scarlets: FORWARDS: Leo Cullen, John Fogarty, Cian Healy, Jamie Heaslip, Nathan Hines, Bernard Jackman, Stephen Keogh, Ronan McCormack, Kevin McLaughlin, Sean O'Brien, Malcolm O'Kelly, Mike Ross, Rhys Ruddock, Devin Toner, CJ van der Linde, Stan Wright
BACKS: Shaun Berne, Gordon D'Arcy, Girvan Dempsey, Shane Horgan, Chris Keane, Rob Kearney, Simon Keogh, Fergus McFadden, Isa Nacewa, Paul O'Donohoe, Brian O'Driscoll, Eoin Reddan
Scarlets selection v Leinster Saturday 19th December 2009, 3.45pm, RDS.
15 Rhys Priestland, 14 Darren Daniel, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Simon Easterby, 7 Johnathan Edwards, 8 David Lyons (captain).
Replacements: 16 Emyr Phillips, 17 Phil John, 18 Jamie Corsi, 19 Vernon Cooper, 20 Rob McCusker, 21 Tavis Knoyle, 22 Daniel Evans, 23 Gareth Maule.
Davies names Scarlets line-up for Leinster away
The Scarlets have named their starting line-up for the return Heineken Cup clash at the RDS in Dublin on Saturday.
Head Coach Nigel Davies has opted to bring in Rhys Priestland at full back behind British Lions and Wales international fly half Stephen Jones while centre partnerships of Jonathan Davies and Sean Lamont remain unchanged.
Andy Fenby stays on the wing after showing his potential last weekend with Darren Daniel brought in at 14. Daniel, who scored a try in his first start for the region against Worcester in November, has recorded an impressive string of tries in his recent appearances in the premiership for Carmarthen Quins with five tries in two games.
Flanker Johnathan Edwards gets his first start for the region in the European campaign.
Nigel Davies said: “This will be another big game for a number of our younger players who are new to the rigours of the Heineken Cup. It will be a true test of character and spirit after last weekend’s result but the disappointment from our last performance has now been replaced by a desire to go out to Dublin and show what this Scarlets team is capable of.
“We are now just focused on putting in a good performance at the weekend and we have everything to play for.
“We have got to bring an intensity and an accuracy to our play that we didn’t have for large parts of our game last weekend. We need to be much more clinical on Saturday. If you are going to beat Leinster at their home, you have got to be on top of your game – not a few per cent off.
“We’ve made a couple of changes which is part of our aim to look to develop competition within this squad and if players are a couple of per cent off then others pushing for places will be given their chance.”
Former Scarlets captain and now player coach Simon Easterby said that his team would look to take their chances and stand up to the stature and experience of the Leinster line-up.
He said: “Last weekend was a big anti-climax for us and we made hard work for ourselves - we gave them a lot and we created a lot but we didn’t take our chances. We gave them a couple of soft tries and what this group learnt hard last weekend is that you can’t switch off against Leinster.
The experienced former Irish international said: “This will be a tough hunting ground for us, but we need to get a win or at the very least come away with something to keep our round four and five hopes alive – there is still plenty to play for.
“We must have a street wise mentality. Leinster know how to win we can’t let them get too far ahead like last weekend – we will need to match them and stay in the game.”The Leinster squad to face the Scarlets in Saturday afternoon's Heineken Cup round 4 clash in the RDS (KO: 3.45pm) has been named.
Gordon D'Arcy, Shane Horgan, Sean O'Brien and Shaun Berne - each try scorers in last weekend's victory in Parc Y Scarlets - are included in the panel for Saturday's return fixture in the RDS. Jamie Heaslip, who made his 100th appearance for the province last weekend, is one of seven Ireland international forwards in the panel.
Rhys Ruddock - who made his debut in the recent Magners League game against the Dragons - joins Chris Keane, Simon Keogh, Ronan McCormack and Devin Toner in the extended panel which is expected to be reduced on Friday lunchtime.
Leinster squad to face the Scarlets: FORWARDS: Leo Cullen, John Fogarty, Cian Healy, Jamie Heaslip, Nathan Hines, Bernard Jackman, Stephen Keogh, Ronan McCormack, Kevin McLaughlin, Sean O'Brien, Malcolm O'Kelly, Mike Ross, Rhys Ruddock, Devin Toner, CJ van der Linde, Stan Wright
BACKS: Shaun Berne, Gordon D'Arcy, Girvan Dempsey, Shane Horgan, Chris Keane, Rob Kearney, Simon Keogh, Fergus McFadden, Isa Nacewa, Paul O'Donohoe, Brian O'Driscoll, Eoin Reddan
Scarlets selection v Leinster Saturday 19th December 2009, 3.45pm, RDS.
15 Rhys Priestland, 14 Darren Daniel, 13 Sean Lamont, 12 Jonathan Davies, 11 Andy Fenby, 10 Stephen Jones, 9 Martin Roberts, 1 Iestyn Thomas, 2 Ken Owens 3 Deacon Manu, 4 Lou Reed, 5 Dominic Day, 6 Simon Easterby, 7 Johnathan Edwards, 8 David Lyons (captain).
Replacements: 16 Emyr Phillips, 17 Phil John, 18 Jamie Corsi, 19 Vernon Cooper, 20 Rob McCusker, 21 Tavis Knoyle, 22 Daniel Evans, 23 Gareth Maule.
18.12.09 For All you Golden Oldies - 1956-60 Jukebox Merry Christmas
Some music!>Click here: Briarcliff Manor High>School Class of 1960 Reunion>
http://bobforrest.com/JukeBox.htm
http://bobforrest.com/JukeBox.htm
18.12.09 GOGS U16s v Newport Dragons u16s Sunday 20.12.09
The Team Selection Is As Follows :-
1 SIMPSON Joe "Snitch" Bangor RFC
2 KIRBY Ryan Mold RFC
3 PYM Gareth Winnington Park
4 FRANCIS Maredydd Whitchurch RFC
5 GWYN Aaron Caernarfon RFC
6 EVANS Llion Llandudno RFC
7 PARRY Meilir Bangor RFC
8 JONES Robert Llandudno RFC
9 BAGSHAW (c) Afon Flint RFC
10 BARKER Lewis Mold RFC
11 EVANS Aron Llangefni RFC
12 JONES Michael Ruthin RFC
13 BLACKMORE Jason Rhyl RFC
14 BRITTAIN Teddy Llanidloes RFC
15 JONES Dion Nant Conwy RFC
16 ROWLANDS Tom Flint RFC
17 WILLIAMS Josh Mold RFC
18 GRUNDY James Mold RFC
19 BAKER Ben Bangor RFC
20 ROBERTS Phylip Ruthin RFC
21 RICHARDS Matt Ruthin RFC
22 WEAVER Lewys Rhyl RFC
1 SIMPSON Joe "Snitch" Bangor RFC
2 KIRBY Ryan Mold RFC
3 PYM Gareth Winnington Park
4 FRANCIS Maredydd Whitchurch RFC
5 GWYN Aaron Caernarfon RFC
6 EVANS Llion Llandudno RFC
7 PARRY Meilir Bangor RFC
8 JONES Robert Llandudno RFC
9 BAGSHAW (c) Afon Flint RFC
10 BARKER Lewis Mold RFC
11 EVANS Aron Llangefni RFC
12 JONES Michael Ruthin RFC
13 BLACKMORE Jason Rhyl RFC
14 BRITTAIN Teddy Llanidloes RFC
15 JONES Dion Nant Conwy RFC
16 ROWLANDS Tom Flint RFC
17 WILLIAMS Josh Mold RFC
18 GRUNDY James Mold RFC
19 BAKER Ben Bangor RFC
20 ROBERTS Phylip Ruthin RFC
21 RICHARDS Matt Ruthin RFC
22 WEAVER Lewys Rhyl RFC
18.12.09 FW: GC 18 SQUAD V DRAGONS,20th DECEMBER
The game is at Newbridge RFC with a 1:00pm KO.
GC 18s v DRAGONS,20th DECEMBER 2010
ED MASON-RUTHIN
JACK MATTHEWS-EXILES
OLLIE HUGHES-MOLD
MATT BEVAN-BALA
LLEW WILLIAMS-CAERNARFON
JAKE SIMM-MOLD
GRUFF JONES-WREXHAM
GARETH MORGAN-RUTHIN
JOSH WOODS-RHYL
JOE BARNETT-RUTHIN
BEN POWLAY-EXILES
JJ WILLIAMS-EXILES
TOM PARRY-PWLLHELI
ALEX SCHWARZ-MOLD
WILL MORECOMBE-RHYL
JAC WILLIAMS-RUTHIN
OWAIN ALED-BALA
IWAN PHILLIPS-EXILES
HENRY ROBERTS-RHYL
DANNY PRYCE-EXILES
LEWIS ISAAC-RUTHIN
NICKY HUGHES-MOLD
WILL MITCHELMORE-RUTHIN
GC 18s v DRAGONS,20th DECEMBER 2010
ED MASON-RUTHIN
JACK MATTHEWS-EXILES
OLLIE HUGHES-MOLD
MATT BEVAN-BALA
LLEW WILLIAMS-CAERNARFON
JAKE SIMM-MOLD
GRUFF JONES-WREXHAM
GARETH MORGAN-RUTHIN
JOSH WOODS-RHYL
JOE BARNETT-RUTHIN
BEN POWLAY-EXILES
JJ WILLIAMS-EXILES
TOM PARRY-PWLLHELI
ALEX SCHWARZ-MOLD
WILL MORECOMBE-RHYL
JAC WILLIAMS-RUTHIN
OWAIN ALED-BALA
IWAN PHILLIPS-EXILES
HENRY ROBERTS-RHYL
DANNY PRYCE-EXILES
LEWIS ISAAC-RUTHIN
NICKY HUGHES-MOLD
WILL MITCHELMORE-RUTHIN
17.12.09
17.12.09 GOGS U16s and U18s v Newport-Gwent Dragons 20.12.09
Although this weekend is the last before Christmas there will be no let-up for the Gogledd Cymru Under 16 & 18 Teams as they travel down to South Wales to face their Newport/Gwent Dragons counterparts.
The 18s,coming off the back of a heavy defeat last weekend against the Cardiff Blues will be seeking to bounce back in their final match of what has been a long and arduous Autumn Campaign. Playing against the Dragons at Newbridge,1:00pm KO gives them the opportunity to end the season on a high,but whatever the result they finish the competition with their heads held high.
Whilst the 16s also lost their last match,against the Ospreys,it was a much closer affair as they went down 19-12. Their match against the Dragons at Blackwood Rugby Club,1:30 KO,will allow them another chance to gain a second victory of the regional Age-Grade Competition,and hopefully set themselves up for the remainder of their regional age-grade matches in January.
WM
The 18s,coming off the back of a heavy defeat last weekend against the Cardiff Blues will be seeking to bounce back in their final match of what has been a long and arduous Autumn Campaign. Playing against the Dragons at Newbridge,1:00pm KO gives them the opportunity to end the season on a high,but whatever the result they finish the competition with their heads held high.
Whilst the 16s also lost their last match,against the Ospreys,it was a much closer affair as they went down 19-12. Their match against the Dragons at Blackwood Rugby Club,1:30 KO,will allow them another chance to gain a second victory of the regional Age-Grade Competition,and hopefully set themselves up for the remainder of their regional age-grade matches in January.
WM
17.12.09 RYDAL SCHOOL 3 CRAWSHAYS INVITATION XV 46 - Will Morcombe Reports
RYDAL SCHOOL 3 CRAWSHAYS INVITATION XV 46
Although as the score might suggest,this was a somewhat 1-sided affair,no-one could fault the commitment of either side as Rydal school hosted a strong Crawshays side in what has become their now traditional pre-christmas fixture.
Crawshays made up of players from across the whole Principality, on this occasion featured no fewer than 6 players with North Wales connections:
Jac Roberts,Pwllheli
Brandon Allsop,Caernarfon,
Callum Bennett,Rhyl
John Evans,Exiles
Josh Woods,Rhyl
Danny Pryce,Exiles
All played their part in the Crawshays victory,and it is hoped that in future years more and more North Walians will have the opportunity to don the famous Crawshays shirt.
WM
Although as the score might suggest,this was a somewhat 1-sided affair,no-one could fault the commitment of either side as Rydal school hosted a strong Crawshays side in what has become their now traditional pre-christmas fixture.
Crawshays made up of players from across the whole Principality, on this occasion featured no fewer than 6 players with North Wales connections:
Jac Roberts,Pwllheli
Brandon Allsop,Caernarfon,
Callum Bennett,Rhyl
John Evans,Exiles
Josh Woods,Rhyl
Danny Pryce,Exiles
All played their part in the Crawshays victory,and it is hoped that in future years more and more North Walians will have the opportunity to don the famous Crawshays shirt.
WM
15.12.09
15.12.09 Swalec Plate and Bowl draws
SWALEC PLATE
ROUND 3
To be played the weekend of 16th January 2010
Crymych v Laugharne
Newcastle Emlyn v Aberystwyth
Nant Conwy v Caernarvon
Ruthin v Denbigh
Mumbles v Waunarlwydd
Ammanford v Loughor
Bryncoch v Aberavon Quins
Skewen v Glynneath
Kenfig Hill v Tondu
Treorchy v Maesteg
Llantwit Fardre v Pentyrch
Gilfach Goch v Llandaff North
Rhydyfelin v Penallta
Penarth v Aberdare
Brynmawr v Tredegar Ironsides
Gwernyfed v Garndiffaith
SWALEC BOWL
ROUND 4
To be played the weekend of 16th January 2010
Bala v Monmouth
Bethesda v Machynlleth
Pembroke v Amman Utd
Llangadog v Milford
Birchgrove v Cwmgwrach
Pontarddulais v Trebanos
Pyle v Glyncorrwg
Pontardawe v Bryncethin
Bridgend Sports v Porth Harlequins
Cambrian Welfare v Glyncoch
Senghenydd v St Josephs
Llanrumney v Cardiff University
Hafodyryns v Risca
Abercarn v Abertillery BG
Bettws v New Tredegar
Talywain v Blaenavon
ROUND 3
To be played the weekend of 16th January 2010
Crymych v Laugharne
Newcastle Emlyn v Aberystwyth
Nant Conwy v Caernarvon
Ruthin v Denbigh
Mumbles v Waunarlwydd
Ammanford v Loughor
Bryncoch v Aberavon Quins
Skewen v Glynneath
Kenfig Hill v Tondu
Treorchy v Maesteg
Llantwit Fardre v Pentyrch
Gilfach Goch v Llandaff North
Rhydyfelin v Penallta
Penarth v Aberdare
Brynmawr v Tredegar Ironsides
Gwernyfed v Garndiffaith
SWALEC BOWL
ROUND 4
To be played the weekend of 16th January 2010
Bala v Monmouth
Bethesda v Machynlleth
Pembroke v Amman Utd
Llangadog v Milford
Birchgrove v Cwmgwrach
Pontarddulais v Trebanos
Pyle v Glyncorrwg
Pontardawe v Bryncethin
Bridgend Sports v Porth Harlequins
Cambrian Welfare v Glyncoch
Senghenydd v St Josephs
Llanrumney v Cardiff University
Hafodyryns v Risca
Abercarn v Abertillery BG
Bettws v New Tredegar
Talywain v Blaenavon
15.12.09. HERE IS ONE FOR THE REFEREES
BRITISH & IRISH CUP - Press Release
===========================
LEINSTER V CORNISH PIRATES
Tuesday December 15, 2009 Issued by the British & Irish Cup
THE British & Irish Cup Organising Committee have ruled on the request by Cornish Pirates to review the circumstances of their match with Leinster on November 27 which resulted in uncontested scrums.
The Committee found that Leinster had complied with International Rugby Board Law and tournament regulations regarding the number of match day squad members capable of playing in the front row.
The referee also complied with IRB Law by moving to uncontested scrums once Leinster's starting hooker had left the field injured and their replacement hooker was yellow carded.
The Committee also affirmed that "the referee is the sole judge of fact and of law during the match" and as such any decision taken by him/her to move to uncontested scrums cannot be overturned after the final whistle .
However, the Committee recognised that the
British & Irish Cup regulation covering uncontested scrums should be re-drafted to avoid any furture confusion.
British & Irish Cup Director Terry Burwell said: "We regret any inconvenience caused by the wording of the tournament regulations and thank Cornish Pirates for highlighting this case.
Both Leinster and the referee complied with the Laws of the Game but we recognise that the tournament regulations allowed for confusion in this matter and they will be re-drafted to eliminate any in the future."
The Committee's full decision follows here:
BRITISH & IRISH CUP
LEINSTER VS. CORNISH PIRATES - REVIEW
Background and Facts
1. Cornish Pirates asked the Organising Committee (OC) to review the circumstances of their match on Friday 27 November 2009 vs. Leinster moving to Uncontested Scrums.
2. The facts, which are not in dispute, are as follows:
a. Leinster's hooker 2 [Strauss] left the field injured after 27 minutes to be replaced by 16 [Harris-Wright].
b. After 59 minutes
16 [Harris-Wright] was given a yellow card, at which time the game went to uncontested scrums.
c. After 10 minutes 16 [Harris-Wright] returned to the field and the match resumed with Contested Scrums.
3. Cornish Pirates contend that the move to Uncontested Scrums was a breach of Regulation 9.4 , which states:
Where a player or players is/are temporarily suspended from the field of play (which includes a blood injury) which creates a third or subsequent occasion that a front row forward needs to be replaced...
4. The fact that this was the second occasion, not the third, has led Cornish Pirates to the conclusion that a breach of Regulation has occurred.
Review
5. The OC has examined the evidence and the relevant Regulations.
6. There was consensus that the Laws of the Game must prevail.
7. In addition the OC believes in the importance of upholding Law 6.A.4.a that states "The Referee is the sole judge of fact and of Law during the Match." As such any decision taken by the
Referee to move to Uncontested Scrums cannot be overturned after the final whistle.
8. The OC notes that Regulation 9.3 requires teams to have 5 players in their squad capable of playing in the front row and to comply with Law 3.5 and, in this particular case, Law 3.5c . This Law requires teams to be able to replace prop for prop and hooker for hooker.
9. Clearly in this case the move to Uncontested Scrums on the second occasion complied with Regulation 9.3 and Law 3.5c because the starting hooker was injured and his replacement was yellow carded.
10. The Referee applied Law 3.5c by moving to Uncontested Scrums once 16 [Harris-Wright] was yellow carded as Leinster were not required by the Laws of the Game nor by Regulation 9.3 to have a third hooker.
11. The OC noted that all unions involved in the British & Irish Cup apply Law 3.5c to the domestic competitions in which their clubs/regions participate.
12. For Cornish Pirates the relevant Championship Regulation is 3.
===========================
LEINSTER V CORNISH PIRATES
Tuesday December 15, 2009 Issued by the British & Irish Cup
THE British & Irish Cup Organising Committee have ruled on the request by Cornish Pirates to review the circumstances of their match with Leinster on November 27 which resulted in uncontested scrums.
The Committee found that Leinster had complied with International Rugby Board Law and tournament regulations regarding the number of match day squad members capable of playing in the front row.
The referee also complied with IRB Law by moving to uncontested scrums once Leinster's starting hooker had left the field injured and their replacement hooker was yellow carded.
The Committee also affirmed that "the referee is the sole judge of fact and of law during the match" and as such any decision taken by him/her to move to uncontested scrums cannot be overturned after the final whistle .
However, the Committee recognised that the
British & Irish Cup regulation covering uncontested scrums should be re-drafted to avoid any furture confusion.
British & Irish Cup Director Terry Burwell said: "We regret any inconvenience caused by the wording of the tournament regulations and thank Cornish Pirates for highlighting this case.
Both Leinster and the referee complied with the Laws of the Game but we recognise that the tournament regulations allowed for confusion in this matter and they will be re-drafted to eliminate any in the future."
The Committee's full decision follows here:
BRITISH & IRISH CUP
LEINSTER VS. CORNISH PIRATES - REVIEW
Background and Facts
1. Cornish Pirates asked the Organising Committee (OC) to review the circumstances of their match on Friday 27 November 2009 vs. Leinster moving to Uncontested Scrums.
2. The facts, which are not in dispute, are as follows:
a. Leinster's hooker 2 [Strauss] left the field injured after 27 minutes to be replaced by 16 [Harris-Wright].
b. After 59 minutes
16 [Harris-Wright] was given a yellow card, at which time the game went to uncontested scrums.
c. After 10 minutes 16 [Harris-Wright] returned to the field and the match resumed with Contested Scrums.
3. Cornish Pirates contend that the move to Uncontested Scrums was a breach of Regulation 9.4 , which states:
Where a player or players is/are temporarily suspended from the field of play (which includes a blood injury) which creates a third or subsequent occasion that a front row forward needs to be replaced...
4. The fact that this was the second occasion, not the third, has led Cornish Pirates to the conclusion that a breach of Regulation has occurred.
Review
5. The OC has examined the evidence and the relevant Regulations.
6. There was consensus that the Laws of the Game must prevail.
7. In addition the OC believes in the importance of upholding Law 6.A.4.a that states "The Referee is the sole judge of fact and of Law during the Match." As such any decision taken by the
Referee to move to Uncontested Scrums cannot be overturned after the final whistle.
8. The OC notes that Regulation 9.3 requires teams to have 5 players in their squad capable of playing in the front row and to comply with Law 3.5 and, in this particular case, Law 3.5c . This Law requires teams to be able to replace prop for prop and hooker for hooker.
9. Clearly in this case the move to Uncontested Scrums on the second occasion complied with Regulation 9.3 and Law 3.5c because the starting hooker was injured and his replacement was yellow carded.
10. The Referee applied Law 3.5c by moving to Uncontested Scrums once 16 [Harris-Wright] was yellow carded as Leinster were not required by the Laws of the Game nor by Regulation 9.3 to have a third hooker.
11. The OC noted that all unions involved in the British & Irish Cup apply Law 3.5c to the domestic competitions in which their clubs/regions participate.
12. For Cornish Pirates the relevant Championship Regulation is 3.
16.12.09 Ruthin v Pwllheli Report - Link to John Palmer's report
Link to match report below and attached
http://www.rygbirhuthun.com/Pages/MatchReport.aspx?FixtureDetails=666
Rgds
John
http://www.rygbirhuthun.com/Pages/MatchReport.aspx?FixtureDetails=666
Rgds
John
15.12.09 Beaufort 13 Bethesda 17 - A Roberts Davies Report
Beaufort 13 Bethesda 17
3rd round of the Swalec Plate started at 7 o clock Saturday morning for Bethesda to unbeaten Beaufort flying high in their league averaging 5 try’s a game Bethesda were also unbeaten away this season so something had to give. Bethesda were first to score after the Referee set out his stall on discipline. Mathew Parry kicked a penalty in the second minute. Beaufort were a very experienced side with players that made their mark over the years playing for senior sides up and down the valleys and on their first serious attack they won a penalty kicked deep and from the line out drove for the line but were held up well by the visitors eventually they took the passing option and scored a rather easy try when the Bethesda defence was in disarray. Conversion made the score 7-3. Mid way thru the first half the Beaufort prop was Yellow carded Bethesda backed themselves to score tries on two occasions when penalties were very kickable and came away with nothing. Beaufort increased their lead with a penalty on the half hour mark and added another on 36 mins to make it 13- 3. Bethesda’s scrum was solid but they looked rather jaded it could have been the 4 and a half hour journey. Second half Bethesda looked sharper and Mathew Parry tried to get them going and Gareth Wyn pegged them back with some deft touches Bethesda scored a great try in the last quarter a feed from Parry To Gareth Wyn who missed the centre Full Back Llion Lloyd came in at speed to feed Iwan Hywel with one man to beat made it look simple to score close to the posts to make an easy conversion for Parry. Into the last 15 minutes with all to play for indiscipline saw a Yellow card for Bethesda that could have proved fatal with the game finely poised Beaufort took advantage and worked their way up field excellent defence prevented the home side a score. With time running out Bethesda turned over the ball deep in their half kicked up field and good chasing by Bethesda saw Beaufort under pressure get the ball into touch 25 meters out the ball came to outside half Gareth Wyn who ghosted in for a well worked try converted by Parry to give Bethesda the lead with 2 minutes to go. The game played out but a fracas resulted with a player from both sides having an early bath Bethesda were happy to win the penalty and cleared into touch and progress into the next round. Next Saturday sees the last game of the year at Dol Ddafydd with Rhos the visitors.
Regards,
Robert Davies
General Foreman
Costain Ltd on behalf of Dwr Cymru Welsh Water
3rd round of the Swalec Plate started at 7 o clock Saturday morning for Bethesda to unbeaten Beaufort flying high in their league averaging 5 try’s a game Bethesda were also unbeaten away this season so something had to give. Bethesda were first to score after the Referee set out his stall on discipline. Mathew Parry kicked a penalty in the second minute. Beaufort were a very experienced side with players that made their mark over the years playing for senior sides up and down the valleys and on their first serious attack they won a penalty kicked deep and from the line out drove for the line but were held up well by the visitors eventually they took the passing option and scored a rather easy try when the Bethesda defence was in disarray. Conversion made the score 7-3. Mid way thru the first half the Beaufort prop was Yellow carded Bethesda backed themselves to score tries on two occasions when penalties were very kickable and came away with nothing. Beaufort increased their lead with a penalty on the half hour mark and added another on 36 mins to make it 13- 3. Bethesda’s scrum was solid but they looked rather jaded it could have been the 4 and a half hour journey. Second half Bethesda looked sharper and Mathew Parry tried to get them going and Gareth Wyn pegged them back with some deft touches Bethesda scored a great try in the last quarter a feed from Parry To Gareth Wyn who missed the centre Full Back Llion Lloyd came in at speed to feed Iwan Hywel with one man to beat made it look simple to score close to the posts to make an easy conversion for Parry. Into the last 15 minutes with all to play for indiscipline saw a Yellow card for Bethesda that could have proved fatal with the game finely poised Beaufort took advantage and worked their way up field excellent defence prevented the home side a score. With time running out Bethesda turned over the ball deep in their half kicked up field and good chasing by Bethesda saw Beaufort under pressure get the ball into touch 25 meters out the ball came to outside half Gareth Wyn who ghosted in for a well worked try converted by Parry to give Bethesda the lead with 2 minutes to go. The game played out but a fracas resulted with a player from both sides having an early bath Bethesda were happy to win the penalty and cleared into touch and progress into the next round. Next Saturday sees the last game of the year at Dol Ddafydd with Rhos the visitors.
Regards,
Robert Davies
General Foreman
Costain Ltd on behalf of Dwr Cymru Welsh Water
14.12.09
14.12.09 GC U18s v Blues U18s Will Morecombe Reoprts
GOGLEDD CYMRU UNDER 18 0 BLUES UNDER 18 65
Sometimes the final score does not tell the full story of a match,and this was certainly the case at Wrexham this afternoon. At 41-0 down at half-time the young North Walians were facing the possibility of conceding a cricket score against a Blues side whose first half display marked them down as head and shoulders above any other side in this years regional age-grade competition.Playing with power,pace and not a little skill, led to the Blues scoring tries in the first period through Cory Allen,Ellis Jenkins,Callum Thomas,Harry Robinson and Elliot Jones (2).
However showing real character the second half saw a massively improved performance from the Gogledd Cymru side who never gave up tackling and trying. Although further Blues tries were to come from Thomas Davies, Harry Robinson,Cory Allen and Elliot Jones for his hat-trick, each of them had to be worked for in a way that was perhaps not the case in the first half.
Next Sunday Gogledd Cymru Under 18s finish their campaign with an away game against the Dragons.
Will
Sometimes the final score does not tell the full story of a match,and this was certainly the case at Wrexham this afternoon. At 41-0 down at half-time the young North Walians were facing the possibility of conceding a cricket score against a Blues side whose first half display marked them down as head and shoulders above any other side in this years regional age-grade competition.Playing with power,pace and not a little skill, led to the Blues scoring tries in the first period through Cory Allen,Ellis Jenkins,Callum Thomas,Harry Robinson and Elliot Jones (2).
However showing real character the second half saw a massively improved performance from the Gogledd Cymru side who never gave up tackling and trying. Although further Blues tries were to come from Thomas Davies, Harry Robinson,Cory Allen and Elliot Jones for his hat-trick, each of them had to be worked for in a way that was perhaps not the case in the first half.
Next Sunday Gogledd Cymru Under 18s finish their campaign with an away game against the Dragons.
Will
12.12.09
12.12.09 Nant Conwy v Mold - Adroddiad Ifor Glyn
Clwb Rygbi Nant Conwy
Sadwrn / Saturday 12.12.09 Nant Conwy 12 v Yr Wyddgrug / Mold 7
Plat Swalec Plate: rownd 2 round
Sgorwyr Nant:
Ceisiau / Tries: Medwyn Vaughan, Daniel Newcombe
Trosi / Conversion: Llywarch ap Myrddin
Derbyniadau’r giât yn mynd at elusen ‘Motor Neurone’ y mae’r Clwb yn ei gefnogi eleni = £162.46
Gate receipts for this match being donated to Nant Conwy’s chosen charity for this year (‘Motor Neurone’) = £162.46
Nant oedd yn pwyso drwy’r hanner cyntaf gan fynd tros y llinell deirgwaith ond y bel yn cael ei dal i fyny ar y tri thro. Yna, fel sy’n digwydd yn aml gydag un ochr yn pwyso’n barhaus, sgoriodd asgellwr yr Wyddgrug, Richard Hopkins, gais da ar ôl 43 munud o chwarae gyda’r Canolwr, Aled Ellis yn trosi.
Sgôr o 0 - 7 ar yr hanner felly.
Ar ôl parhau i bwyso ar ddechrau’r ail hanner, aeth rhif 4 cryf Nant, Med Vaughan drosodd ar yr asgell dde. Aflwyddiannus fu Llywarch gyda’r ymdrech i drosi yn union fel ag y bu ddwywaith yn yr hanner cyntaf gyda chiciau cosb o bell.
Daeth yr Wyddgrug fwy i’r gêm ar ôl y cais yma gan bwyso tipyn ond amddiffyn Nant yn dal yn gryf. Yn araf bach, gwthiwyd yr Wyddgrug yn ôl i’w hanner eu hunain fwyfwy a sgoriwyd y cais a drodd allan i ennill y gêm i Nant gan y canolwr Daniel Newcombe gyda 6 munud yn weddill. Troswyd gan Llywarch.
Mater o’r blaenwyr ei chadw’n dynn oedd hi wedyn gan lwyddo i ennill y gêm. Diddorol yn awr fydd gweld pwy fydd y gwrthwynebwyr yn y rownd nesaf.
Os bu i Langefni ennill rownd gyntaf eu gem Cwpan Gogledd Cymru heddiw, gobeithir chwarae i ffwrdd yn Llangefni'r Sadwrn nesaf yng nghymal cyntaf ail rownd y gystadleuaeth honno.
Nant were the dominant side throughout the first half and managed to cross the line three times but the ball was adjudged to be ‘held up’ on all those occasions. Then, as so often happens in such circumstances, Mold scored the first try after 43 minutes play when winger Richard Hopkins crossed for a try converted by no. 12, Aled Ellis. A score of 0 – 7 at half time then.
After continuing to press during the opening exchanges of the second half, Nant’s strong no.4, Medwyn Vaughan powered over to score a try in the right hand corner. Llywarch failed with a good conversion attempt as he had done twice with long range penalties in the first half.
Mold came more into the match after this score but the Nant defence held firm. Gradually, Mold were pegged back more and more into their own half and it was no surprise when centre, Daniel Newcombe broke the defence with an excellent angled run to score a try by the posts. Llywarch duly converted. With 6 minutes of ordinary play and 6 minutes of ‘extra time’ to be played, the Nant forwards decided to retain as much as possible of the ball in the pack and it proved successful as Nant ran out winners by 12 points to 7. It will be interesting now to see who Nant’s opponents will be in round 3.
If Llangefni managed to win their North Wales round 1 match at Colwyn Bay today, both sides have agreed to play the first leg of the second round of that competition away at Llangefni next Saturday.
Ifor Glyn (Ysgrifennydd / Secretary)
Sadwrn / Saturday 12.12.09 Nant Conwy 12 v Yr Wyddgrug / Mold 7
Plat Swalec Plate: rownd 2 round
Sgorwyr Nant:
Ceisiau / Tries: Medwyn Vaughan, Daniel Newcombe
Trosi / Conversion: Llywarch ap Myrddin
Derbyniadau’r giât yn mynd at elusen ‘Motor Neurone’ y mae’r Clwb yn ei gefnogi eleni = £162.46
Gate receipts for this match being donated to Nant Conwy’s chosen charity for this year (‘Motor Neurone’) = £162.46
Nant oedd yn pwyso drwy’r hanner cyntaf gan fynd tros y llinell deirgwaith ond y bel yn cael ei dal i fyny ar y tri thro. Yna, fel sy’n digwydd yn aml gydag un ochr yn pwyso’n barhaus, sgoriodd asgellwr yr Wyddgrug, Richard Hopkins, gais da ar ôl 43 munud o chwarae gyda’r Canolwr, Aled Ellis yn trosi.
Sgôr o 0 - 7 ar yr hanner felly.
Ar ôl parhau i bwyso ar ddechrau’r ail hanner, aeth rhif 4 cryf Nant, Med Vaughan drosodd ar yr asgell dde. Aflwyddiannus fu Llywarch gyda’r ymdrech i drosi yn union fel ag y bu ddwywaith yn yr hanner cyntaf gyda chiciau cosb o bell.
Daeth yr Wyddgrug fwy i’r gêm ar ôl y cais yma gan bwyso tipyn ond amddiffyn Nant yn dal yn gryf. Yn araf bach, gwthiwyd yr Wyddgrug yn ôl i’w hanner eu hunain fwyfwy a sgoriwyd y cais a drodd allan i ennill y gêm i Nant gan y canolwr Daniel Newcombe gyda 6 munud yn weddill. Troswyd gan Llywarch.
Mater o’r blaenwyr ei chadw’n dynn oedd hi wedyn gan lwyddo i ennill y gêm. Diddorol yn awr fydd gweld pwy fydd y gwrthwynebwyr yn y rownd nesaf.
Os bu i Langefni ennill rownd gyntaf eu gem Cwpan Gogledd Cymru heddiw, gobeithir chwarae i ffwrdd yn Llangefni'r Sadwrn nesaf yng nghymal cyntaf ail rownd y gystadleuaeth honno.
Nant were the dominant side throughout the first half and managed to cross the line three times but the ball was adjudged to be ‘held up’ on all those occasions. Then, as so often happens in such circumstances, Mold scored the first try after 43 minutes play when winger Richard Hopkins crossed for a try converted by no. 12, Aled Ellis. A score of 0 – 7 at half time then.
After continuing to press during the opening exchanges of the second half, Nant’s strong no.4, Medwyn Vaughan powered over to score a try in the right hand corner. Llywarch failed with a good conversion attempt as he had done twice with long range penalties in the first half.
Mold came more into the match after this score but the Nant defence held firm. Gradually, Mold were pegged back more and more into their own half and it was no surprise when centre, Daniel Newcombe broke the defence with an excellent angled run to score a try by the posts. Llywarch duly converted. With 6 minutes of ordinary play and 6 minutes of ‘extra time’ to be played, the Nant forwards decided to retain as much as possible of the ball in the pack and it proved successful as Nant ran out winners by 12 points to 7. It will be interesting now to see who Nant’s opponents will be in round 3.
If Llangefni managed to win their North Wales round 1 match at Colwyn Bay today, both sides have agreed to play the first leg of the second round of that competition away at Llangefni next Saturday.
Ifor Glyn (Ysgrifennydd / Secretary)
12.11.09 GOGS u18 v Cardiff Blues now ar WREXHAM Sun 13.12.09 2.00pm
Here is the Gogledd Cymru Under 18 squad for the game V the Blues on Sunday 13.12.09. The game is now being played at Wrexham RFC at 2.00pm.
Jack Matthews-Exiles
Ed Mason-Ruthin
Matt Bevan-Bala
Ollie Hughes-Mold
Gareth Morgan-Ruthin
Jake Simm-Mold
Neal Hodgkinson-Rhyl
Niall McCallum-Mold
Llew Williams-Caernarfon
Gruff Jones-Wrexham
Tom Parry-Pwllheli
Joe Barnett-Ruthin
JJ Williams-Exiles
Michael Downey-Caernarfon
Alex Schwarz-Mold
Jac Williams-Ruthin
Henry Roberts-Rhyl
Owian Aled-Bala
Iwan Phillips-Exiles
Ben Stemalsezk-Exiles
Nicky Hughes-Mold
Will Mitchelmore-Ruthin
Lewis Isaac-Ruthin
Jonny Hughes - Bangor
Andrew Oakden-Exiles
Jack Matthews-Exiles
Ed Mason-Ruthin
Matt Bevan-Bala
Ollie Hughes-Mold
Gareth Morgan-Ruthin
Jake Simm-Mold
Neal Hodgkinson-Rhyl
Niall McCallum-Mold
Llew Williams-Caernarfon
Gruff Jones-Wrexham
Tom Parry-Pwllheli
Joe Barnett-Ruthin
JJ Williams-Exiles
Michael Downey-Caernarfon
Alex Schwarz-Mold
Jac Williams-Ruthin
Henry Roberts-Rhyl
Owian Aled-Bala
Iwan Phillips-Exiles
Ben Stemalsezk-Exiles
Nicky Hughes-Mold
Will Mitchelmore-Ruthin
Lewis Isaac-Ruthin
Jonny Hughes - Bangor
Andrew Oakden-Exiles
9.12.09
09.12.09 SWAL:EC Plate Sat 12 dec 2009
SWALEC Plate
Fellow Div 1 North strugglers meet at Dinbych where Llandudno are the visitors.
Mold go to Nant for the second time this season and will be keen to avenge their defeat on their last visit to the league leaders.
In form Pwllheli travel to Ruthin in what promises to be a keenly fought cup encounter.
Div 1 newcomers Bro who are having an excellent run of results will not be overawed when they travel to second placed Caernarfon and again it could be a cracking contest between these rivals to proceed to the next round in the competition.
SWALEC Bowl
This time last year Bethesda were hosting mighty Cardiff , on a special and memorable day, in the Cup competition, this year sees them visitng Gwent side Beaufort who play in Div 6.The hosts are going well and Pesda will have to pull out all the stops to go through to the next round.
Bala will be in a confident mood, with only one defeat this season,visit Tregaron who narrowly beat Cobra at home in the last round.
There is a real old fashioned Montgomeryshire derby at Machynlleth with the visit of old rivals Newtown. Both sides have are in good form of late and it should be an entertaining encounter.
Fellow Div 1 North strugglers meet at Dinbych where Llandudno are the visitors.
Mold go to Nant for the second time this season and will be keen to avenge their defeat on their last visit to the league leaders.
In form Pwllheli travel to Ruthin in what promises to be a keenly fought cup encounter.
Div 1 newcomers Bro who are having an excellent run of results will not be overawed when they travel to second placed Caernarfon and again it could be a cracking contest between these rivals to proceed to the next round in the competition.
SWALEC Bowl
This time last year Bethesda were hosting mighty Cardiff , on a special and memorable day, in the Cup competition, this year sees them visitng Gwent side Beaufort who play in Div 6.The hosts are going well and Pesda will have to pull out all the stops to go through to the next round.
Bala will be in a confident mood, with only one defeat this season,visit Tregaron who narrowly beat Cobra at home in the last round.
There is a real old fashioned Montgomeryshire derby at Machynlleth with the visit of old rivals Newtown. Both sides have are in good form of late and it should be an entertaining encounter.
8.12.09
8/12/09 Gogs will be fifth region in time says Clive .....Rob Griffiths DPost
Gogledd Cymru will be the fifth region in time says Clive
Dec 8 2009 by Rob Griffiths, Daily Post
CLIVE GRIFFITHS was yesterday unveiled as the new head coach of Gogledd Cymru and immediately proposed an agenda to help North Wales become the fifth Welsh region.
A former Grand Slam-winning coach in 2005 under Mike Ruddock, Griffiths brings a wealth of experience to the role as Gogledd Cymru chief and is excited about the challenges that lie ahead.
But he will not have much time to prepare his side, with Gogledd Cymru’s first fixture under the regime scheduled for Friday, January 15 at Eirias Park.
Yesterday also saw Rugby Canada officially sign up to the agreement that will see 10 of their international players join Gogledd Cymru in a bid to boost the standards and profile of the North Wales team.
The Canadians arrive on January 7, and will make up the bulk of the Gogledd Cymru team for the match against a Leicester Tigers Development XV on January 7. They will be supplemented by the best North Wales players.
Eventually, the number of Canadians will drop as more players from North Wales come in to form the basis of the team moving forward.
And in another huge coup for Gogledd Cymru, it was also announced that former Gloucester coach Rudi Meir has been appointed as skills and conditioning coach, while current head coach John Aby will stay on as one of Griffiths’ assistants.
But while Griffiths acknowledged the amount of work that was still needed make Gogledd Cymru a competitive side, he made no apologies for raising expectations with his long-term goals for the region.
“The long-term aim has got to be a fifth region, it has to be,” said Griffiths. “It’s a long term process but it is an attainable one.
“Who said that years ago we’d have four regions in the whole of South Wales, with all the politics involved in Welsh rugby and the clubs at that time. So it is achievable, it is going to take a lot of hard work and a lot of soul-searching along the way, but it is an attainable goal.”
Still recognised as one of the biggest names in Welsh rugby, Griffiths is looking forward to the challenge that has been put in front of him
“I was very excited before I came here,” he added. “Now I’m even more excited having seen the level of enthusiasm and the spirit here for this sort of venture and the will to make it work, I’m really enthused about it, it’s going to be a massive challenge no doubt about that.
“But what I’ve said in the interviews, it is a case of walking first and running a little later. But we have to the hit the road running, particularly when we have the first game against Leicester in a matter of weeks. But I’ll come back to my original point, I’m very enthused about it and looking forward to the challenge.”
And Griffiths did not take much convincing to accept the role with North Wales, although admitting to knowing little about local players at the onset of his role.
But he should soon be up to speed and is convinced there is the necessary pool of talent in North Wales to make a successful team.
He said: “I sat down with Joe (Lydon) to outline the long-term plans for North Wales and you could really see it was going somewhere.
“I’m delighted to be part of that and head it and I’m pleased to be working with some very talented coaches, players and administrators and everyone else.
“I know very little (about the players), so again that’s another challenge, and of course we’re going to be under-cooked going into that game against Leicester. But it’s not just about that game, it’s about getting this off the ground, finishing that first block of fixtures then standing back to have a look and planning for the future, learning from the mistakes and having an input into the future of this venture.
“’I’ve come across here and coached many times over the years and it is an untapped source for Welsh rugby.
“This (venture) emphasises that to a degree with the academy and a pathway for the youngsters to go forward and then into the regional set-up at a higher level of rugby again.”At present there is also talk of Crusaders Rugby League being based in Wrexham permanently, but as a former St Helens legend in the 13-man code, Griffiths is unworried about the impact another professional team could have on the future of a Union side in the north, based at Colwyn Bay’s Eirias Park.
“There’s only a certain amount of overlap in the two seasons anyway,” he added. “They won’t conflict because Rugby League is supposed to be a summer sport, although I know it is starting off in February and March, so there is a little bit of an overlap in the seasons, but then when one season finishes the other one starts.
“I don’t see it as a problem, Rugby League has lived side by side in the North of England for years, and there’s no greater example than in Auckland with the New Zealand Warriors and Auckland (Blues) themselves, so I don’t see it as a problem, it’s another sport and supporters can choose whatever they want to watch and maybe even both.”
Griffiths added: “It’s awesome here (Eirias Park), it really is awesome, a lot of clubs would die for these facilities, and the plans with the council and the indoor area in 12-months time it is only going to get better and better.”
This move is also seen as a major boost to the game in Canada and CEO Graham Brown believes the move for the 10 Canadian players to play in North Wales is a significant step forward in providing elite level competition as well as elite player development.
“Proving elite competition and training environments for our best players has always been a goal for Rugby Canada,” he said. “Providing opportunities for players to become professionals, while continuing to provide high level domestic training environments for those not playing professionally overseas, through out partnership with PISE (Pacific Institute of Sport Excellence) achieves our goal.
“The North Wales project is one part of our development programme and a significant partnership for Rugby Canada.”
Dec 8 2009 by Rob Griffiths, Daily Post
CLIVE GRIFFITHS was yesterday unveiled as the new head coach of Gogledd Cymru and immediately proposed an agenda to help North Wales become the fifth Welsh region.
A former Grand Slam-winning coach in 2005 under Mike Ruddock, Griffiths brings a wealth of experience to the role as Gogledd Cymru chief and is excited about the challenges that lie ahead.
But he will not have much time to prepare his side, with Gogledd Cymru’s first fixture under the regime scheduled for Friday, January 15 at Eirias Park.
Yesterday also saw Rugby Canada officially sign up to the agreement that will see 10 of their international players join Gogledd Cymru in a bid to boost the standards and profile of the North Wales team.
The Canadians arrive on January 7, and will make up the bulk of the Gogledd Cymru team for the match against a Leicester Tigers Development XV on January 7. They will be supplemented by the best North Wales players.
Eventually, the number of Canadians will drop as more players from North Wales come in to form the basis of the team moving forward.
And in another huge coup for Gogledd Cymru, it was also announced that former Gloucester coach Rudi Meir has been appointed as skills and conditioning coach, while current head coach John Aby will stay on as one of Griffiths’ assistants.
But while Griffiths acknowledged the amount of work that was still needed make Gogledd Cymru a competitive side, he made no apologies for raising expectations with his long-term goals for the region.
“The long-term aim has got to be a fifth region, it has to be,” said Griffiths. “It’s a long term process but it is an attainable one.
“Who said that years ago we’d have four regions in the whole of South Wales, with all the politics involved in Welsh rugby and the clubs at that time. So it is achievable, it is going to take a lot of hard work and a lot of soul-searching along the way, but it is an attainable goal.”
Still recognised as one of the biggest names in Welsh rugby, Griffiths is looking forward to the challenge that has been put in front of him
“I was very excited before I came here,” he added. “Now I’m even more excited having seen the level of enthusiasm and the spirit here for this sort of venture and the will to make it work, I’m really enthused about it, it’s going to be a massive challenge no doubt about that.
“But what I’ve said in the interviews, it is a case of walking first and running a little later. But we have to the hit the road running, particularly when we have the first game against Leicester in a matter of weeks. But I’ll come back to my original point, I’m very enthused about it and looking forward to the challenge.”
And Griffiths did not take much convincing to accept the role with North Wales, although admitting to knowing little about local players at the onset of his role.
But he should soon be up to speed and is convinced there is the necessary pool of talent in North Wales to make a successful team.
He said: “I sat down with Joe (Lydon) to outline the long-term plans for North Wales and you could really see it was going somewhere.
“I’m delighted to be part of that and head it and I’m pleased to be working with some very talented coaches, players and administrators and everyone else.
“I know very little (about the players), so again that’s another challenge, and of course we’re going to be under-cooked going into that game against Leicester. But it’s not just about that game, it’s about getting this off the ground, finishing that first block of fixtures then standing back to have a look and planning for the future, learning from the mistakes and having an input into the future of this venture.
“’I’ve come across here and coached many times over the years and it is an untapped source for Welsh rugby.
“This (venture) emphasises that to a degree with the academy and a pathway for the youngsters to go forward and then into the regional set-up at a higher level of rugby again.”At present there is also talk of Crusaders Rugby League being based in Wrexham permanently, but as a former St Helens legend in the 13-man code, Griffiths is unworried about the impact another professional team could have on the future of a Union side in the north, based at Colwyn Bay’s Eirias Park.
“There’s only a certain amount of overlap in the two seasons anyway,” he added. “They won’t conflict because Rugby League is supposed to be a summer sport, although I know it is starting off in February and March, so there is a little bit of an overlap in the seasons, but then when one season finishes the other one starts.
“I don’t see it as a problem, Rugby League has lived side by side in the North of England for years, and there’s no greater example than in Auckland with the New Zealand Warriors and Auckland (Blues) themselves, so I don’t see it as a problem, it’s another sport and supporters can choose whatever they want to watch and maybe even both.”
Griffiths added: “It’s awesome here (Eirias Park), it really is awesome, a lot of clubs would die for these facilities, and the plans with the council and the indoor area in 12-months time it is only going to get better and better.”
This move is also seen as a major boost to the game in Canada and CEO Graham Brown believes the move for the 10 Canadian players to play in North Wales is a significant step forward in providing elite level competition as well as elite player development.
“Proving elite competition and training environments for our best players has always been a goal for Rugby Canada,” he said. “Providing opportunities for players to become professionals, while continuing to provide high level domestic training environments for those not playing professionally overseas, through out partnership with PISE (Pacific Institute of Sport Excellence) achieves our goal.
“The North Wales project is one part of our development programme and a significant partnership for Rugby Canada.”
7.12.09
07.12.09 Rygbi Gogledd Cymru - Y Cam Nesaf
Gogledd Cymru - Y Cam Nesaf
Cyhoeddwyd: 7 Rhagfyr 2009
Penodi Clive Griffiths yn brif hyfforddwr Tîm Gogledd Cymru
a chadarnhau Cynnig Rugby Canada.
Penodwyd Clive Griffiths, cyn brif hyfforddwr amddiffyn Cymru fel prif hyfforddwr Tîm Datblygu Gogledd Cymru, a chytunodd Rugby Canada ar y cynnig i gael chwaraewyr rhyngwladol Canada i hybu proffil a safon perfformiad y tîm.
Penodwyd Clive Griffiths am 5 mis. Gweithiodd Clive gyda Mike Ruddock yn ystod tymor y Gamp Lawn yn 2005, a bu’n helpu tîm Caerwrangon Mike Ruddock i gyrraedd gêm derfynol Cwpan Sialens Ewrop yn 2008. Bydd Clive yn dewis y tîm newydd a’u paratoi ar gyfer cyfres o gemau cystadleuol. Cadarnhawyd eisoes mai Parc Eirias, Bae Colwyn fydd eu cartref. Dyma bartneriaeth gyda Chyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy.
Bydd 10 chwaraewr rygbi rhyngwladol o Ganada yn dod i Ogledd Cymru ar 7 Ionawr mewn cynllun i geisio hybu safonau a phroffil tîm cynrychioladol Gogledd Cymru, a rhoi cyfle i’r chwaraewyr ifanc elit o Ganada chwarae gemau cystadleuol yr un pryd
Yr ail benodiad proffil uchel i dîm Gogledd Cymru yw Rudi Meir sy’n gyn hyfforddwr sgiliau a chyflyru Caerloyw, a fydd yn gwneud yr un swydd yma, yn ogystal â sefydlu proses perfformiad a rhwydwaith mewnol. Bydd John Aby, hyfforddwr presennol Gogledd Cymru yn gweithio fel un o hyfforddwyr cynorthwyol y tîm ar ei newydd wedd.
Bydd Clive Griffiths rŵan yn sefydlu proses dewis ar gyfer Gogledd Cymru i greu uned chwarae effeithiol gyda chwaraewyr Cymru a Chanada
Cafodd 9 gêm eu cadarnhau ar gyfer y tîm, gan ddechrau yn erbyn Tîm Datblygu’r Leicester Tigers ym Mharc Eirias, dydd Gwener 15 Ionawr. Bydd y rhestr gemau lawn yn cael ei chwblhau yn ddiweddarach y mis hwn.
Mae cynllun strategol Gogledd Cymru yn cynnwys sefydlu Academi Gogledd Cymru a fydd yn cael ei redeg gan Marc Roberts, Rheolwr Perfformiad a Datblygu Gogledd Cymru, gyda chymorth Coleg Llandrillo ac Ysgol Rydal, a fydd yn darparu rhaglen academaidd a rygbi integredig,. Bydd yr academi ar safle Parc Eirias fel rhan o ddatblygiad sawl miliwn o bunnau ar y safle.
Yr uchelgais yw gweithio mewn partneriaeth go iawn gyda Rugby Canada i ddatblygu eu chwaraewyr nhw ymhellach yr un pryd â datblygu rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru. Ym mhen hir a hwyr, fel bydd y system academi yng Ngogledd Cymru’n dechrau datblygu chwaraewyr addas, byddwn yn adolygu’r ffordd ymlaen gyda’n cydchwaraewyr o Ganada.
Dywedodd Clive Griffiths, “Mae’r penodiad yn her gyffrous i mi. Mae Gogledd Cymru yn ffynhonnell doniau rygbi nad yw’n cael ei ddefnyddio ar hyn o bryd ac rwy’n gobeithio y gallaf roi sylw priodol i hynny. Mae nifer o bobl wedi bod yn ymgyrchu ers blynyddoedd i wella proffil rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru a gallwn wireddu hynny petaem i gyd yn cydweithio â’n gilydd.
“Mae bob amser yn waith caled sefydlu tîm a’u cael i gydweithio, a dydy’r sefyllfa hon ddim yn wahanol. Mae gennym ni amser rŵan i ddewis grŵp o chwaraewyr o Ogledd Cymru ac yna creu ein cynllun chwarae o amgylch y grŵp hwnnw a’r chwaraewyr o Ganada gyda’i gilydd. Rydw i’n siŵr y bydd hyn yn anodd i ddechrau a llawer iawn i’w ddysgu. Bydd yn bosibl i chwaraewyr eraill ymuno â’r garfan o hyd. Rydyn ni’n gobeithio y byddwn ni’n helpu i wella safon rygbi clybiau yng Ngogledd Cymru trwy greu cystadleuaeth am le yn y tîm.”
Dywedodd Joe Lydon, Pennaeth Datblygu Rygbi Undeb Rygbi Cymru, “Mae gan Clive Griffiths gryn brofiad proffesiynol ar y lefel uchaf a dyma sefyllfa ddelfrydol iddo ddod a thîm fel hyn at ei gilydd. Mae gan Rudi Meir hefyd lawer o brofiad yn ei faes ac rwy’n siŵr y bydd hyfforddwyr a chwaraewyr y dyfodol yng Ngogledd Cymru yn gallu manteisio ar eu gwybodaeth a’u sgiliau.
“Bydd cynnwys 10 chwaraewr o Ganada yn y garfan yn helpu i wella safon a phroffil tîm Gogledd Cymru ar y maes chwarae ac oddi arno. Bydd hefyd yn helpu i greu tîm lled broffesiynol cystadleuol yng Ngogledd Cymru bron ar unwaith. Bydd yn ein galluogi ni i chwarae gemau deniadol ym Mharc Eirias, yn y gobaith y bydd hyn yn helpu i gynyddu diddordeb yn y gêm a hefyd y niferoedd sy’n chwarae rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru.
"Ein nod trwy’r amser ydi gwella safon chwaraewyr rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru yn y tymor hir a sefydlu academi yn y rhanbarth a fydd yn helpu i ddarganfod a meithrin y dalent honno yn y dyfodol, gan roi cyfle'r un pryd i’r chwaraewyr gael profiad o rygbi cystadleuol safon uchel.”
Dywedodd Kenton Morgan, Cadeirydd Rygbi Gogledd Cymru, “Mae Clive, Rudi, Jon a 10 o Ganada yn tchwanegu grym at ychelgais Rygbi Gogledd Cymru i ragori. Mae’r datblygiad arloesol hwn yn gam ymlaen yn yr isadeiledd a pherfformiad rydyn ni eu hangen ar y cae. Mae hwn yn gyfle unigryw i gymuned rygbi Gogledd Cymru ddangos yr angerdd ac adnoddau sydd eu hangen er mwyn i ni dyfu a hawlio ein lle ym myd rygbi Cymru.”
Dywedodd Roger Lewis, Prif Weithredwr Grŵp Undeb Rygbi Cymru hefyd, “Rygbi ydi gêm genedlaethol Cymru. Mae’n ein diffinio fel cenedl. Mae’r cynllun rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru yn hanfodol bwysig, nid yn unig ar gyfer datblygu’r gêm, ond hefyd i uno Cymru fel gwlad. Mae’r cyhoeddiadau hyn yn arwydd clir ein bod am ddatblygu pob chwaraewr, hyfforddwr a swyddog gêm yng Ngoledd Cymru i’r eithaf, fel sydd wedi cael ei nodi yng Nghynllun Strategol Undeb Rygbi Cymru."
Dywedodd y Cynghorydd Dilwyn Roberts, Arweinydd Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy, “Rydyn ni wrth ein bodd yn croesawu tîm Canada i Fae Colwyn a’r gobaith yw y bydd hyn yn hybu rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru yn fawr. Rydyn ni’n awyddus iawn i weld rhagor o bobl ifanc yn cymryd rhan mewn chwaraeon. Wrth ddod a chwaraewyr o Ganada i’r ardal rydyn ni’n credu y bydd yn ysbrydoli ac annog pobl ifanc y rhanbarth. Bydd yr awdurdodau yng Ngogledd Cymru yn cydweithio’n agos i sicrhau y bydd unrhyw gyfle economaidd ac adfywio yn sgil y cynllun hwn o fudd i’r rhanbarth cyfan.”
Dywedodd Graham Brown, Prif Weithredwr Rugby Canada bod y cynllun i gael deg chwaraewr o Ganada i chwarae yng Nghymru yn gam mawr ymlaen i ddarparu cystadleuaeth ar lefel elit yn ogystal â datblygu chwaraewyr elit.
“Mae darparu cystadleuaeth elit ac amgylchfyd hyfforddi ar gyfer ein chwaraewyr gorau wedi bod yn nod erioed i Rugby Canada. Mae darparu cyfle i chwaraewyr ddatblygu i fod yn broffesiynol wrth barhau i ddarparu amgylchfyd hyfforddi safon uchel i’r rhai nad ydynt yn chwarae’n broffesiynol dramor, trwy ein partneriaeth gyda’r PISE (Sefydliad Rhagoriaeth Chwaraeon y Môr Tawel), yn cyflawni ein nod.” O bencadlys Rugby Canada yn Toronto dywedodd Brown hefyd, “Mae prosiect Gogledd Cymru yn un rhan o’n rhaglen datblygu ac mae’n bartneriaeth bwysig i Rugby Canada.”
Gemau Gogledd Cymru 2010 (rhestr i'w gael ei gadarnhau ymhen diwedd y mis):
• Dydd Gwener 15 Ionawr v Leicester Tigers Development XV - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Mercher 20 Ionawr v Antiassassins (Chester) - away
• Dydd sadwrn 30 Ionawr v Glamorgan Wanderers - away
• 2 / 3 Chwefror v Scarlets - Llandovery
• Dydd Mercher 17 Chwefror v Worcester - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Mercher 23 Chwefror v Sale Jets - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Mercher 10 Mawrth v Leeds - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Gwener 19 Mawrth v Oxford University - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Sadwrn 17 Ebrill v Cross Keys - Parc Eirias
DIWEDD
I gael rhagor o wybodaeth cysylltwch â:
Liz Jones, Rheolwr Cyfathrebu Undeb Rygbi Cymru
07736 056669 lizjones@wru.co.uk
Eirian Edwards, Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy:
01492 576007 eirian.edwards@conwy.gov.uk
Cyhoeddwyd: 7 Rhagfyr 2009
Penodi Clive Griffiths yn brif hyfforddwr Tîm Gogledd Cymru
a chadarnhau Cynnig Rugby Canada.
Penodwyd Clive Griffiths, cyn brif hyfforddwr amddiffyn Cymru fel prif hyfforddwr Tîm Datblygu Gogledd Cymru, a chytunodd Rugby Canada ar y cynnig i gael chwaraewyr rhyngwladol Canada i hybu proffil a safon perfformiad y tîm.
Penodwyd Clive Griffiths am 5 mis. Gweithiodd Clive gyda Mike Ruddock yn ystod tymor y Gamp Lawn yn 2005, a bu’n helpu tîm Caerwrangon Mike Ruddock i gyrraedd gêm derfynol Cwpan Sialens Ewrop yn 2008. Bydd Clive yn dewis y tîm newydd a’u paratoi ar gyfer cyfres o gemau cystadleuol. Cadarnhawyd eisoes mai Parc Eirias, Bae Colwyn fydd eu cartref. Dyma bartneriaeth gyda Chyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy.
Bydd 10 chwaraewr rygbi rhyngwladol o Ganada yn dod i Ogledd Cymru ar 7 Ionawr mewn cynllun i geisio hybu safonau a phroffil tîm cynrychioladol Gogledd Cymru, a rhoi cyfle i’r chwaraewyr ifanc elit o Ganada chwarae gemau cystadleuol yr un pryd
Yr ail benodiad proffil uchel i dîm Gogledd Cymru yw Rudi Meir sy’n gyn hyfforddwr sgiliau a chyflyru Caerloyw, a fydd yn gwneud yr un swydd yma, yn ogystal â sefydlu proses perfformiad a rhwydwaith mewnol. Bydd John Aby, hyfforddwr presennol Gogledd Cymru yn gweithio fel un o hyfforddwyr cynorthwyol y tîm ar ei newydd wedd.
Bydd Clive Griffiths rŵan yn sefydlu proses dewis ar gyfer Gogledd Cymru i greu uned chwarae effeithiol gyda chwaraewyr Cymru a Chanada
Cafodd 9 gêm eu cadarnhau ar gyfer y tîm, gan ddechrau yn erbyn Tîm Datblygu’r Leicester Tigers ym Mharc Eirias, dydd Gwener 15 Ionawr. Bydd y rhestr gemau lawn yn cael ei chwblhau yn ddiweddarach y mis hwn.
Mae cynllun strategol Gogledd Cymru yn cynnwys sefydlu Academi Gogledd Cymru a fydd yn cael ei redeg gan Marc Roberts, Rheolwr Perfformiad a Datblygu Gogledd Cymru, gyda chymorth Coleg Llandrillo ac Ysgol Rydal, a fydd yn darparu rhaglen academaidd a rygbi integredig,. Bydd yr academi ar safle Parc Eirias fel rhan o ddatblygiad sawl miliwn o bunnau ar y safle.
Yr uchelgais yw gweithio mewn partneriaeth go iawn gyda Rugby Canada i ddatblygu eu chwaraewyr nhw ymhellach yr un pryd â datblygu rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru. Ym mhen hir a hwyr, fel bydd y system academi yng Ngogledd Cymru’n dechrau datblygu chwaraewyr addas, byddwn yn adolygu’r ffordd ymlaen gyda’n cydchwaraewyr o Ganada.
Dywedodd Clive Griffiths, “Mae’r penodiad yn her gyffrous i mi. Mae Gogledd Cymru yn ffynhonnell doniau rygbi nad yw’n cael ei ddefnyddio ar hyn o bryd ac rwy’n gobeithio y gallaf roi sylw priodol i hynny. Mae nifer o bobl wedi bod yn ymgyrchu ers blynyddoedd i wella proffil rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru a gallwn wireddu hynny petaem i gyd yn cydweithio â’n gilydd.
“Mae bob amser yn waith caled sefydlu tîm a’u cael i gydweithio, a dydy’r sefyllfa hon ddim yn wahanol. Mae gennym ni amser rŵan i ddewis grŵp o chwaraewyr o Ogledd Cymru ac yna creu ein cynllun chwarae o amgylch y grŵp hwnnw a’r chwaraewyr o Ganada gyda’i gilydd. Rydw i’n siŵr y bydd hyn yn anodd i ddechrau a llawer iawn i’w ddysgu. Bydd yn bosibl i chwaraewyr eraill ymuno â’r garfan o hyd. Rydyn ni’n gobeithio y byddwn ni’n helpu i wella safon rygbi clybiau yng Ngogledd Cymru trwy greu cystadleuaeth am le yn y tîm.”
Dywedodd Joe Lydon, Pennaeth Datblygu Rygbi Undeb Rygbi Cymru, “Mae gan Clive Griffiths gryn brofiad proffesiynol ar y lefel uchaf a dyma sefyllfa ddelfrydol iddo ddod a thîm fel hyn at ei gilydd. Mae gan Rudi Meir hefyd lawer o brofiad yn ei faes ac rwy’n siŵr y bydd hyfforddwyr a chwaraewyr y dyfodol yng Ngogledd Cymru yn gallu manteisio ar eu gwybodaeth a’u sgiliau.
“Bydd cynnwys 10 chwaraewr o Ganada yn y garfan yn helpu i wella safon a phroffil tîm Gogledd Cymru ar y maes chwarae ac oddi arno. Bydd hefyd yn helpu i greu tîm lled broffesiynol cystadleuol yng Ngogledd Cymru bron ar unwaith. Bydd yn ein galluogi ni i chwarae gemau deniadol ym Mharc Eirias, yn y gobaith y bydd hyn yn helpu i gynyddu diddordeb yn y gêm a hefyd y niferoedd sy’n chwarae rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru.
"Ein nod trwy’r amser ydi gwella safon chwaraewyr rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru yn y tymor hir a sefydlu academi yn y rhanbarth a fydd yn helpu i ddarganfod a meithrin y dalent honno yn y dyfodol, gan roi cyfle'r un pryd i’r chwaraewyr gael profiad o rygbi cystadleuol safon uchel.”
Dywedodd Kenton Morgan, Cadeirydd Rygbi Gogledd Cymru, “Mae Clive, Rudi, Jon a 10 o Ganada yn tchwanegu grym at ychelgais Rygbi Gogledd Cymru i ragori. Mae’r datblygiad arloesol hwn yn gam ymlaen yn yr isadeiledd a pherfformiad rydyn ni eu hangen ar y cae. Mae hwn yn gyfle unigryw i gymuned rygbi Gogledd Cymru ddangos yr angerdd ac adnoddau sydd eu hangen er mwyn i ni dyfu a hawlio ein lle ym myd rygbi Cymru.”
Dywedodd Roger Lewis, Prif Weithredwr Grŵp Undeb Rygbi Cymru hefyd, “Rygbi ydi gêm genedlaethol Cymru. Mae’n ein diffinio fel cenedl. Mae’r cynllun rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru yn hanfodol bwysig, nid yn unig ar gyfer datblygu’r gêm, ond hefyd i uno Cymru fel gwlad. Mae’r cyhoeddiadau hyn yn arwydd clir ein bod am ddatblygu pob chwaraewr, hyfforddwr a swyddog gêm yng Ngoledd Cymru i’r eithaf, fel sydd wedi cael ei nodi yng Nghynllun Strategol Undeb Rygbi Cymru."
Dywedodd y Cynghorydd Dilwyn Roberts, Arweinydd Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy, “Rydyn ni wrth ein bodd yn croesawu tîm Canada i Fae Colwyn a’r gobaith yw y bydd hyn yn hybu rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru yn fawr. Rydyn ni’n awyddus iawn i weld rhagor o bobl ifanc yn cymryd rhan mewn chwaraeon. Wrth ddod a chwaraewyr o Ganada i’r ardal rydyn ni’n credu y bydd yn ysbrydoli ac annog pobl ifanc y rhanbarth. Bydd yr awdurdodau yng Ngogledd Cymru yn cydweithio’n agos i sicrhau y bydd unrhyw gyfle economaidd ac adfywio yn sgil y cynllun hwn o fudd i’r rhanbarth cyfan.”
Dywedodd Graham Brown, Prif Weithredwr Rugby Canada bod y cynllun i gael deg chwaraewr o Ganada i chwarae yng Nghymru yn gam mawr ymlaen i ddarparu cystadleuaeth ar lefel elit yn ogystal â datblygu chwaraewyr elit.
“Mae darparu cystadleuaeth elit ac amgylchfyd hyfforddi ar gyfer ein chwaraewyr gorau wedi bod yn nod erioed i Rugby Canada. Mae darparu cyfle i chwaraewyr ddatblygu i fod yn broffesiynol wrth barhau i ddarparu amgylchfyd hyfforddi safon uchel i’r rhai nad ydynt yn chwarae’n broffesiynol dramor, trwy ein partneriaeth gyda’r PISE (Sefydliad Rhagoriaeth Chwaraeon y Môr Tawel), yn cyflawni ein nod.” O bencadlys Rugby Canada yn Toronto dywedodd Brown hefyd, “Mae prosiect Gogledd Cymru yn un rhan o’n rhaglen datblygu ac mae’n bartneriaeth bwysig i Rugby Canada.”
Gemau Gogledd Cymru 2010 (rhestr i'w gael ei gadarnhau ymhen diwedd y mis):
• Dydd Gwener 15 Ionawr v Leicester Tigers Development XV - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Mercher 20 Ionawr v Antiassassins (Chester) - away
• Dydd sadwrn 30 Ionawr v Glamorgan Wanderers - away
• 2 / 3 Chwefror v Scarlets - Llandovery
• Dydd Mercher 17 Chwefror v Worcester - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Mercher 23 Chwefror v Sale Jets - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Mercher 10 Mawrth v Leeds - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Gwener 19 Mawrth v Oxford University - Parc Eirias
• Dydd Sadwrn 17 Ebrill v Cross Keys - Parc Eirias
DIWEDD
I gael rhagor o wybodaeth cysylltwch â:
Liz Jones, Rheolwr Cyfathrebu Undeb Rygbi Cymru
07736 056669 lizjones@wru.co.uk
Eirian Edwards, Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy:
01492 576007 eirian.edwards@conwy.gov.uk
7.12.09. Clive Griffiths confirmed Gogledd Cymru coach
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 7 December 2009
CLIVE GRIFFITHS APPOINTED HEAD COACH OF NORTH WALES SIDE AND RUGBY CANADA PROPOSAL CONFIRMED
Former Wales defence coach Clive Griffiths has been appointed as head coach of the North Wales development side, and the proposal for international Canadian players to boost the side's profile and performance levels has been agreed by Rugby Canada.
Griffiths, who worked alongside Mike Ruddock in Wales' 2005 Grand Slam season, and helped Ruddock's Worcester side reach the European Challenge Cup final in 2008, has been appointed for a period of five months and will select and coach the new side through a series of competitive matches, with Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay already confirmed as their home venue in a partnership with Conwy County Borough Council.
Ten international Canadian players will arrive in North Wales on January 7 in a move aimed to boost the standards and profile of the North Wales representative team, while providing competitive rugby for the elite, young Canadians.
In a second high profile appointment for the North Wales set-up, former Gloucester skills and conditioning coach Rudi Meir has been appointed as skills and conditioning coach for the side and will put a performance process and infrastructure management into place. Current North Wales coach John Aby will take up a role as one of the assistant coaches to the new-look team.
Clive Griffiths will now set out a selection process for the remainder of the Gogledd Cymru team in order to mould the Welsh qualified and Canadian players into an effective playing unit.
Nine fixtures have been confirmed for the side, beginning with a Leicester Tigers Development XV at Parc Eirias on Friday 15 January. The full fixture list will be finalised later this month.
The North Wales strategic plan includes the establishment of a North Wales academy which will be run by North Wales Performance and Development manager Marc Roberts with the support of Coleg Llandrillo and Rydal School who will provide an integrated academic and rugby programme. The academy will be based at Parc Eirias as part of Conwy Council's multi-million pound redevelopment of the site.
The ambition is to work in a real partnership with Canadian rugby to further develop their players whilst simultaneously developing rugby in North Wales.
In the fullness of time as the North Wales academy system begins to produce appropriate Welsh players, the way forward will be reviewed together with our Canadian colleagues.
Clive Griffiths said, "This appointment is an exciting challenge for me. North Wales is an untapped source of rugby talent and I hope I can help bring that to the fore. A number of people have been campaigning for years to raise the profile of rugby in North Wales and we can make that a reality if we all pull in the same direction.
"There is always a lot of work to be done to gel a team and this situation is no different. We have some time now to select a group of players from North Wales and then build our game plan around the combined group of Canadian and North Wales players. I'm sure it will be a steep learning curve in the first few weeks and the door won't be shut on squad inclusion by any means. Hopefully we will help to raise the standard of club rugby in North Wales by creating a sense of competition for places in the side."WRU Head of Rugby Development and Performance Joe Lydon said, "Clive Griffiths has a huge amount of professional experience at the highest level and is ideally placed to pull together a team of this nature. Rudi Meir is also highly experienced in his field and I'm sure their knowledge and expertise will rub off on upcoming North Wales coaches and players.
"The inclusion of ten Canadian players in the squad will help to raise the standards and profile of the North Wales side on and off the field and help to give North Wales a competitive, semi-professional side almost immediately. It will enable attractive fixtures to take place at Parc Eirias, which will hopefully help to increase the interest and participation levels in rugby in North Wales. The Canadian players will also be working with WRU Development Officers during their time here to help promote and develop the community game in north Wales.
"Our aim throughout this is to raise the standard of rugby players in North Wales for the long term and the establishment of an academy in North Wales will help to identify and nurture that talent for the future, while at the same time, the players will be exposed to a high standard of competitive rugby."
Kenton Morgan, Chair, Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said, "Clive, Rudi, Jon and ten Canadians add substance to Rygbi Gogledd Cymru's ambition to be the best. This innovative development is the "step up" in infrastructure and performance we need on the field. Our challenge is sustainability. This is a unique opportunity for the north Wales rugby community to show the passion and resources needed to allow us grow to occupy our rightful place in Welsh rugby. "
WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis added, "Rugby is the national sport of Wales. It defines us as a nation. The North Wales rugby strategy is vitally important not only for our rugby development but also for the unity of Wales. These announcements are a clear indication of the desire to maximise the development of all players, coaches and match officials from North Wales as outlined in the WRU strategic plan."
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council said, "We are delighted to welcome the Canadian team to Colwyn Bay and hope that this will be a great boost for rugby in North Wales. We're particularly eager to see more young people participating in sport and we believe that bringing these Canadian players to the area will inspire and encourage the region's youngsters. The North Wales authorities will work closely to ensure that any regeneration and economic opportunities that arise from this scheme can benefit the whole region."
Rugby Canada CEO Graham Brown calls the move for the ten Canadian players to play in Wales a significant step forward in providing elite level competition as well as elite player development.
"Providing elite competition and training environments for our best players has always been a goal for Rugby Canada. Providing opportunities for players to become professionals, while continuing to provide high level domestic training environments for those not playing professionally overseas, through our partnership with PISE (Pacific Institute of Sport Excellence) achieves our goal. The North Wales project is one part of our development program and a significant partnership for Rugby Canada," said Brown from Rugby Canada's Toronto headquarters.
Gogledd Cymru fixtures 2010 (list to be finalised later this month):
Friday 15 Jan v Leicester Tigers Development XV Parc Eirias
Wed 20 Jan v Antiassassins (Chester) away
Sat 30 Jan v Glamorgan Wanderers away
2 / 3 Feb v Scarlets Llandovery
Wed 17 Feb v Worcester Parc Eirias
Wed 23 Feb v Sale Jets Parc Eirias
Wed 10 March v Leeds Parc Eirias
Fri 19 March v Oxford University Parc Eirias
Sat 17 April v Cross Keys PArc Eirias
For further information, contact:WRU: Communications Manager Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
Issued: 7 December 2009
CLIVE GRIFFITHS APPOINTED HEAD COACH OF NORTH WALES SIDE AND RUGBY CANADA PROPOSAL CONFIRMED
Former Wales defence coach Clive Griffiths has been appointed as head coach of the North Wales development side, and the proposal for international Canadian players to boost the side's profile and performance levels has been agreed by Rugby Canada.
Griffiths, who worked alongside Mike Ruddock in Wales' 2005 Grand Slam season, and helped Ruddock's Worcester side reach the European Challenge Cup final in 2008, has been appointed for a period of five months and will select and coach the new side through a series of competitive matches, with Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay already confirmed as their home venue in a partnership with Conwy County Borough Council.
Ten international Canadian players will arrive in North Wales on January 7 in a move aimed to boost the standards and profile of the North Wales representative team, while providing competitive rugby for the elite, young Canadians.
In a second high profile appointment for the North Wales set-up, former Gloucester skills and conditioning coach Rudi Meir has been appointed as skills and conditioning coach for the side and will put a performance process and infrastructure management into place. Current North Wales coach John Aby will take up a role as one of the assistant coaches to the new-look team.
Clive Griffiths will now set out a selection process for the remainder of the Gogledd Cymru team in order to mould the Welsh qualified and Canadian players into an effective playing unit.
Nine fixtures have been confirmed for the side, beginning with a Leicester Tigers Development XV at Parc Eirias on Friday 15 January. The full fixture list will be finalised later this month.
The North Wales strategic plan includes the establishment of a North Wales academy which will be run by North Wales Performance and Development manager Marc Roberts with the support of Coleg Llandrillo and Rydal School who will provide an integrated academic and rugby programme. The academy will be based at Parc Eirias as part of Conwy Council's multi-million pound redevelopment of the site.
The ambition is to work in a real partnership with Canadian rugby to further develop their players whilst simultaneously developing rugby in North Wales.
In the fullness of time as the North Wales academy system begins to produce appropriate Welsh players, the way forward will be reviewed together with our Canadian colleagues.
Clive Griffiths said, "This appointment is an exciting challenge for me. North Wales is an untapped source of rugby talent and I hope I can help bring that to the fore. A number of people have been campaigning for years to raise the profile of rugby in North Wales and we can make that a reality if we all pull in the same direction.
"There is always a lot of work to be done to gel a team and this situation is no different. We have some time now to select a group of players from North Wales and then build our game plan around the combined group of Canadian and North Wales players. I'm sure it will be a steep learning curve in the first few weeks and the door won't be shut on squad inclusion by any means. Hopefully we will help to raise the standard of club rugby in North Wales by creating a sense of competition for places in the side."WRU Head of Rugby Development and Performance Joe Lydon said, "Clive Griffiths has a huge amount of professional experience at the highest level and is ideally placed to pull together a team of this nature. Rudi Meir is also highly experienced in his field and I'm sure their knowledge and expertise will rub off on upcoming North Wales coaches and players.
"The inclusion of ten Canadian players in the squad will help to raise the standards and profile of the North Wales side on and off the field and help to give North Wales a competitive, semi-professional side almost immediately. It will enable attractive fixtures to take place at Parc Eirias, which will hopefully help to increase the interest and participation levels in rugby in North Wales. The Canadian players will also be working with WRU Development Officers during their time here to help promote and develop the community game in north Wales.
"Our aim throughout this is to raise the standard of rugby players in North Wales for the long term and the establishment of an academy in North Wales will help to identify and nurture that talent for the future, while at the same time, the players will be exposed to a high standard of competitive rugby."
Kenton Morgan, Chair, Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said, "Clive, Rudi, Jon and ten Canadians add substance to Rygbi Gogledd Cymru's ambition to be the best. This innovative development is the "step up" in infrastructure and performance we need on the field. Our challenge is sustainability. This is a unique opportunity for the north Wales rugby community to show the passion and resources needed to allow us grow to occupy our rightful place in Welsh rugby. "
WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis added, "Rugby is the national sport of Wales. It defines us as a nation. The North Wales rugby strategy is vitally important not only for our rugby development but also for the unity of Wales. These announcements are a clear indication of the desire to maximise the development of all players, coaches and match officials from North Wales as outlined in the WRU strategic plan."
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council said, "We are delighted to welcome the Canadian team to Colwyn Bay and hope that this will be a great boost for rugby in North Wales. We're particularly eager to see more young people participating in sport and we believe that bringing these Canadian players to the area will inspire and encourage the region's youngsters. The North Wales authorities will work closely to ensure that any regeneration and economic opportunities that arise from this scheme can benefit the whole region."
Rugby Canada CEO Graham Brown calls the move for the ten Canadian players to play in Wales a significant step forward in providing elite level competition as well as elite player development.
"Providing elite competition and training environments for our best players has always been a goal for Rugby Canada. Providing opportunities for players to become professionals, while continuing to provide high level domestic training environments for those not playing professionally overseas, through our partnership with PISE (Pacific Institute of Sport Excellence) achieves our goal. The North Wales project is one part of our development program and a significant partnership for Rugby Canada," said Brown from Rugby Canada's Toronto headquarters.
Gogledd Cymru fixtures 2010 (list to be finalised later this month):
Friday 15 Jan v Leicester Tigers Development XV Parc Eirias
Wed 20 Jan v Antiassassins (Chester) away
Sat 30 Jan v Glamorgan Wanderers away
2 / 3 Feb v Scarlets Llandovery
Wed 17 Feb v Worcester Parc Eirias
Wed 23 Feb v Sale Jets Parc Eirias
Wed 10 March v Leeds Parc Eirias
Fri 19 March v Oxford University Parc Eirias
Sat 17 April v Cross Keys PArc Eirias
For further information, contact:WRU: Communications Manager Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
6.12.09
6.12.09 Wales beaten at Parc Eirias WRU match report
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 06 December 2009
Wales beaten but not bowed by Australian encounter
NB Match pictures available from Huw Evans tel 02920 764311
A spirited 2500-strong crowd watched the first international at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay as Wales Under 18s succombed to a strong Australian Schools XV by six points to ten.
Despite the wintery conditions, both sides were committed in defense and attack and produced a competitive encounter.
After an even opening ten minutes, Australia managed to find a gap in the Welsh defence, sending left wing Kimami Sitauti over for a try. Outside half Rohan Saifoloi added the conversion.
Despite missing an earlier penalty, Wales full back Dale Ford slotted a long range goal on 21 minutes to reduce the deficit.
Wales came out with intent after the break and early pressure very nearly produced a try in the corner for North Walian wing George North but he was deemed by RFU referee Greg Garner to fall short of the line.
The home pressure did bring a second penalty for Ford to bring Simon King's side to within a point of the young Aussies but it was Australia who had most of the try scoring opportunities in the second half, thwarted for the most part by the slippery weather conditions causing dropped passes. In the end, a second penalty for vice-captain Saifoloi secured the win for the visitors.
Wales head coach Simon King was pleased with the way his youngsters dealt with the experience.
"The boys gave their all and did almost everything asked of them. I don't think there was much between the two sides. Australia were a very physical challenge but our line-out was pleasing and our scrum took them on. We were slightly naive if anything with our main try scoring opportunity, but that is all part of the development of these young men.
"The more we can play sides of the calibre of this Australian side, the better equipped our players will be when they come up against them later on in their international careers."
Scoerers:
Wales:
Pens: Dale Ford (2)
Australian Schools:
Try: Kimami Sitauti
Con: Rohan Saifoloi
Pen: Rohan Saifoloi
Wales Under 18 v Australian Schools XV
Dale Ford; George North (Harry Robinson 65), Ben John (capt), Jack Gadd, Eli Walker; Lewis Robling (Joseff Griffin 65), Aled Davies (Daniel Davies 58); Lewis Smout (Rowan Jenkins 62), Ieuan Davies (Gareth Harvey 68), Rhodri Jones (Trystan Davies 51), Cory Hill (Luke Hamilton 68), Macauley Cook, Edward Siggery, Thomas Young (Callum Thomas 62), Ben Thomas
ends
Issued: 06 December 2009
Wales beaten but not bowed by Australian encounter
NB Match pictures available from Huw Evans tel 02920 764311
A spirited 2500-strong crowd watched the first international at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay as Wales Under 18s succombed to a strong Australian Schools XV by six points to ten.
Despite the wintery conditions, both sides were committed in defense and attack and produced a competitive encounter.
After an even opening ten minutes, Australia managed to find a gap in the Welsh defence, sending left wing Kimami Sitauti over for a try. Outside half Rohan Saifoloi added the conversion.
Despite missing an earlier penalty, Wales full back Dale Ford slotted a long range goal on 21 minutes to reduce the deficit.
Wales came out with intent after the break and early pressure very nearly produced a try in the corner for North Walian wing George North but he was deemed by RFU referee Greg Garner to fall short of the line.
The home pressure did bring a second penalty for Ford to bring Simon King's side to within a point of the young Aussies but it was Australia who had most of the try scoring opportunities in the second half, thwarted for the most part by the slippery weather conditions causing dropped passes. In the end, a second penalty for vice-captain Saifoloi secured the win for the visitors.
Wales head coach Simon King was pleased with the way his youngsters dealt with the experience.
"The boys gave their all and did almost everything asked of them. I don't think there was much between the two sides. Australia were a very physical challenge but our line-out was pleasing and our scrum took them on. We were slightly naive if anything with our main try scoring opportunity, but that is all part of the development of these young men.
"The more we can play sides of the calibre of this Australian side, the better equipped our players will be when they come up against them later on in their international careers."
Scoerers:
Wales:
Pens: Dale Ford (2)
Australian Schools:
Try: Kimami Sitauti
Con: Rohan Saifoloi
Pen: Rohan Saifoloi
Wales Under 18 v Australian Schools XV
Dale Ford; George North (Harry Robinson 65), Ben John (capt), Jack Gadd, Eli Walker; Lewis Robling (Joseff Griffin 65), Aled Davies (Daniel Davies 58); Lewis Smout (Rowan Jenkins 62), Ieuan Davies (Gareth Harvey 68), Rhodri Jones (Trystan Davies 51), Cory Hill (Luke Hamilton 68), Macauley Cook, Edward Siggery, Thomas Young (Callum Thomas 62), Ben Thomas
ends
6,12.09. Aussies receive " wonderful letter from Wales" following Parc Eiras match
WONDERFUL LETTER FROM WALES
Sunday, 6 December 2009
ARFSU ADMINISTRATOR JUST RECEIVED THIS e-mail:
We would like to say a big thank you to your players for their conduct after the match this evening in Colwyn Bay. They patiently signed autographs for our 2 young children, making them without a doubt the happiest youngsters in Wales! Our 7 year old daughter played in the half-time tag match. She had been looking forward to that for days but this was completely over-ridden by the chance to mingle with the players after the match.
We think it is important that this is acknoweldged by us and that the players realise how much influence they have on the players of the future.
It is an evening they will never forget.
Thank your young men for us.
Best wishes,
Cath & Andy Bale
Sunday, 6 December 2009
ARFSU ADMINISTRATOR JUST RECEIVED THIS e-mail:
We would like to say a big thank you to your players for their conduct after the match this evening in Colwyn Bay. They patiently signed autographs for our 2 young children, making them without a doubt the happiest youngsters in Wales! Our 7 year old daughter played in the half-time tag match. She had been looking forward to that for days but this was completely over-ridden by the chance to mingle with the players after the match.
We think it is important that this is acknoweldged by us and that the players realise how much influence they have on the players of the future.
It is an evening they will never forget.
Thank your young men for us.
Best wishes,
Cath & Andy Bale
6.12.09. Aussies topple Wales at Parc Eirias
IRELAND - UK TOUR MATCH 3 RESULT
Saturday, 5 December 2009
AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS TOPPLE WALES
The Australian Schoolboys have bounced back from their midweek defeat to Ireland to topple a strong Wales Under 19 outfit 10-6 at Colwyn Bay in North Wales overnight.
Winger Kimami Sitauti scored a try late in the first half as Australia fought hard to make the most of the wet and slippery conditions at Parc Eirias.
Playing their second ‘capped international’ in three days, Australia were determined to make the most of their attacking opportunities after failing to do so in their 15-nil loss to Ireland on Thursday.
The Schoolboys were on the board after 15 minutes when flyhalf Rohan Saifoloi slotted a difficult penalty shot to make it 3-0.
Saifoloi then found himself in open space and set up the Schoolboys try when he passed to fullback Jacob Woodhouse who ran the ball up to the line before offloading to Sitauti who crashed down in the corner.Saifoloi made the conversion to make it 10-0 after 30 minutes.
Wales fullback Dale Ford pulled the deficit back to 10-3 at halftime with a successful penalty goal attempt, and kicked another in the otherwise scoreless second half.
Australian Schoolboys manager Graeme Dedrick said Wales pushed Australia for the entire 80 minutes.
“We played some goods movements in the first half to put some pressure on the Welsh in really tough conditions,” Dedrick said.
“Wales didn’t back down, it was a really good grinding effort.
"We had couple of missed chances but we turned it up another level today. Our defence was of a very high standard."
The Australian Schoolboys next play England Under 19 Regional Academy in Lymm on Wednesday in the fourth match of their UK and Ireland tour.
AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS 10 (Kimami Sitauti try, Rohan Saifoloi pen, con) def WALES 6 (Dale Ford 2 cons)
Saturday, 5 December 2009
AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS TOPPLE WALES
The Australian Schoolboys have bounced back from their midweek defeat to Ireland to topple a strong Wales Under 19 outfit 10-6 at Colwyn Bay in North Wales overnight.
Winger Kimami Sitauti scored a try late in the first half as Australia fought hard to make the most of the wet and slippery conditions at Parc Eirias.
Playing their second ‘capped international’ in three days, Australia were determined to make the most of their attacking opportunities after failing to do so in their 15-nil loss to Ireland on Thursday.
The Schoolboys were on the board after 15 minutes when flyhalf Rohan Saifoloi slotted a difficult penalty shot to make it 3-0.
Saifoloi then found himself in open space and set up the Schoolboys try when he passed to fullback Jacob Woodhouse who ran the ball up to the line before offloading to Sitauti who crashed down in the corner.Saifoloi made the conversion to make it 10-0 after 30 minutes.
Wales fullback Dale Ford pulled the deficit back to 10-3 at halftime with a successful penalty goal attempt, and kicked another in the otherwise scoreless second half.
Australian Schoolboys manager Graeme Dedrick said Wales pushed Australia for the entire 80 minutes.
“We played some goods movements in the first half to put some pressure on the Welsh in really tough conditions,” Dedrick said.
“Wales didn’t back down, it was a really good grinding effort.
"We had couple of missed chances but we turned it up another level today. Our defence was of a very high standard."
The Australian Schoolboys next play England Under 19 Regional Academy in Lymm on Wednesday in the fourth match of their UK and Ireland tour.
AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS 10 (Kimami Sitauti try, Rohan Saifoloi pen, con) def WALES 6 (Dale Ford 2 cons)
6.12..09. WOS Results Round Up
No change after league table clashes
Dec 6 2009 Wales On Sunday
THERE were no surprises in Division One North as the top five clubs all played the clubs from the bottom five, opening up the gap between the halves.
League leaders Nant Conwy won by 24-7 at Denbigh, making sure of the points in the first half as they turned round 17-0 up at the break. The tries coming from No 8 Carwyn Ellis (2), wing Rhys Roberts and hooker Gareth Thomas, with outside half Llwarch ap Merddyn adding two conversions. The home side’s points came from a penalty try, which outside-half Llion Edwards converted.
Second-placed Caernarfon took the honours at Ruthin by 17-8, with a try from wing Selwyn Gwyn and four penalties from outside-half Kelfyn Morris. For the home side scrum-half Will Davies kicked a penalty and prop Clwyd Williams went over for a try.
Third-placed Pwllheli also won away from home with a 23-8 success at Colwyn Bay, while Mold overcame visitors Llandudno 47-5, running in seven tries through wing Andy Jeffrey (2), No 8 Lee Pope, wing Tom Williams (2), scrum-half Matt Condran and centre Mike Rogers. Outside-half Dan Edmunds added six conversions.
Fifth-placed Bro Ffestiniog claimed a try bonus point in their 25-11 home win over Llangefni. The tries coming from prop Haydn Williams, flanker Dave Roberts, wing Daniel Jones and outside-half Barry Roberts, who also added a conversion and penalty.
There were big wins for the two leading clubs in Division Two North. Bala overcame visitors Rhos 56-0 running in 10 tries, wing Alun Morris marking his home debut in the league with four tries.
Bethesda ran in eight tries at Bangor to win by 51-0, with wing Gareth Vaughan-Edwards scoring a hat-trick.
Dolgellau defeated Cobra 34-8 and collected a bonus point as they ran in six tries to one by the visitors.
Llanidloes took the honours in the mid Wales derby clash at Welshpool by 27-10. The visitors’ tries came from wing John Davies, prop Neil Jarman and centre Dan Goodman. Dan Short converted all three and kicked two penalties.
Dec 6 2009 Wales On Sunday
THERE were no surprises in Division One North as the top five clubs all played the clubs from the bottom five, opening up the gap between the halves.
League leaders Nant Conwy won by 24-7 at Denbigh, making sure of the points in the first half as they turned round 17-0 up at the break. The tries coming from No 8 Carwyn Ellis (2), wing Rhys Roberts and hooker Gareth Thomas, with outside half Llwarch ap Merddyn adding two conversions. The home side’s points came from a penalty try, which outside-half Llion Edwards converted.
Second-placed Caernarfon took the honours at Ruthin by 17-8, with a try from wing Selwyn Gwyn and four penalties from outside-half Kelfyn Morris. For the home side scrum-half Will Davies kicked a penalty and prop Clwyd Williams went over for a try.
Third-placed Pwllheli also won away from home with a 23-8 success at Colwyn Bay, while Mold overcame visitors Llandudno 47-5, running in seven tries through wing Andy Jeffrey (2), No 8 Lee Pope, wing Tom Williams (2), scrum-half Matt Condran and centre Mike Rogers. Outside-half Dan Edmunds added six conversions.
Fifth-placed Bro Ffestiniog claimed a try bonus point in their 25-11 home win over Llangefni. The tries coming from prop Haydn Williams, flanker Dave Roberts, wing Daniel Jones and outside-half Barry Roberts, who also added a conversion and penalty.
There were big wins for the two leading clubs in Division Two North. Bala overcame visitors Rhos 56-0 running in 10 tries, wing Alun Morris marking his home debut in the league with four tries.
Bethesda ran in eight tries at Bangor to win by 51-0, with wing Gareth Vaughan-Edwards scoring a hat-trick.
Dolgellau defeated Cobra 34-8 and collected a bonus point as they ran in six tries to one by the visitors.
Llanidloes took the honours in the mid Wales derby clash at Welshpool by 27-10. The visitors’ tries came from wing John Davies, prop Neil Jarman and centre Dan Goodman. Dan Short converted all three and kicked two penalties.
5.12.09
05.12.09 Vacancy for Bilingual Secretary - Rygbi Gogledd Cymru
1. VACANCY FOR A BILINGUAL SECRETARY - This is a voluntary post in the first instance for someone with the commitment and passion to create a better future for young rugby players in North Wales. email rygbigogledd@gmail.com
Link: http://www.box.net/shared/7rsvcbpj5v
Link: http://www.box.net/shared/7rsvcbpj5v
5.12.09. George and Rhodri can't wait for this evening's Wallabies clash _DPost
North Wales rugby duo can't wait to face Australia for Wales U18s
Dec 5 2009 By Rob Griffiths, Daily Post
GEORGE NORTH is relishing a shot at the Wallabies today as he returns home to North Wales.
Winger North was named in the Wales under-18s starting XV to take on Australia Schools this evening at Eirias Park (6pm kick-off) along with fellow North Walian Rhodri Jones.
And while North insists it is not a revenge mission following last Saturday’s disappointing 33-12 defeat for the senior side at the hands of the Wallabies, he admits to looking forward to a return home.
Welsh-speaker North was born in Norfolk, but moved to Anglesey with his family when only three years old.
After playing through the various age groups for Llangefni, Pwllheli and latterly Rhyl, North was picked to represent the Gogledd Cymru U16s which went on to beat the Scarlets in 2007.
It was his performances for the junior Gogs that saw him picked up by the Scarlets academy and eventually earn Wales U18s honours.
And now he is hoping to unleash his talents on the junior Wallabies at what is now the home of Gogledd Cymru.
“It should be a great occasion,” said North. “It’s nice for North Wales to finally get a game like this, although it does mean that we still have to travel for what is a home game.
“It will be nice to come home – I don’t get much time to come back up to North Wales, and it will be nice to play rugby for Wales in what is an area that has always been dominated by football.
“I used to say when I was in secondary school that I wanted to play rugby for Wales and everyone used to say I’d be better off playing football coming from North Wales. So it is nice to prove them all wrong.”
And as far as tonight’s match with the Aussies goes, North is expecting a fast and furious encounter.
“We don’t know a lot about them,” he added. “But we have read a report of their game against the Irish Schools on the web and it seems like they have some very talented players.
“All we can do is go into the game and expect a good match. We have to play heads up rugby because we don’t know what to expect and just play the field in front of us.
“I understand they have a player with a huge boot on him, so I think I can expect a few high balls to deal with, but I am hoping it is an open game that will give me a chance to run with the ball.”
North is not the only North Walian to be called up for tonight’s clash, with prop forward Jones also making the starting XV.
Former Pwllheli youth player Jones was also picked up by the Scarlets academy following impressive performances for the junior Gogs.
The pair both attend Llandovery College and North admits it is nice to have a good friend nearby, adding: “It is good, after training we can sit down and talk about rugby and things in general.
“He picks me up when I think I’ve had a bad session or game and I try to do the same.
“We’ve got a really good friendship and I think that is important.”
Being at the Scarlets will give the pair every chance of making the grade in the professional game and North says seeing a few other northerners at the region gives him something to aspire to.
North Walians Rob Higgitt, Andrew Fenby, Rob McCusker and Joel Galley are all making names for themselves at the Llanelli-based region and North is hoping to follow on very soon.
“Sometimes you see them in training,” he said.
“It’s great to know that someone from the same area that I come from is doing so well in South Wales and it does give me something to aim for.”
Dec 5 2009 By Rob Griffiths, Daily Post
GEORGE NORTH is relishing a shot at the Wallabies today as he returns home to North Wales.
Winger North was named in the Wales under-18s starting XV to take on Australia Schools this evening at Eirias Park (6pm kick-off) along with fellow North Walian Rhodri Jones.
And while North insists it is not a revenge mission following last Saturday’s disappointing 33-12 defeat for the senior side at the hands of the Wallabies, he admits to looking forward to a return home.
Welsh-speaker North was born in Norfolk, but moved to Anglesey with his family when only three years old.
After playing through the various age groups for Llangefni, Pwllheli and latterly Rhyl, North was picked to represent the Gogledd Cymru U16s which went on to beat the Scarlets in 2007.
It was his performances for the junior Gogs that saw him picked up by the Scarlets academy and eventually earn Wales U18s honours.
And now he is hoping to unleash his talents on the junior Wallabies at what is now the home of Gogledd Cymru.
“It should be a great occasion,” said North. “It’s nice for North Wales to finally get a game like this, although it does mean that we still have to travel for what is a home game.
“It will be nice to come home – I don’t get much time to come back up to North Wales, and it will be nice to play rugby for Wales in what is an area that has always been dominated by football.
“I used to say when I was in secondary school that I wanted to play rugby for Wales and everyone used to say I’d be better off playing football coming from North Wales. So it is nice to prove them all wrong.”
And as far as tonight’s match with the Aussies goes, North is expecting a fast and furious encounter.
“We don’t know a lot about them,” he added. “But we have read a report of their game against the Irish Schools on the web and it seems like they have some very talented players.
“All we can do is go into the game and expect a good match. We have to play heads up rugby because we don’t know what to expect and just play the field in front of us.
“I understand they have a player with a huge boot on him, so I think I can expect a few high balls to deal with, but I am hoping it is an open game that will give me a chance to run with the ball.”
North is not the only North Walian to be called up for tonight’s clash, with prop forward Jones also making the starting XV.
Former Pwllheli youth player Jones was also picked up by the Scarlets academy following impressive performances for the junior Gogs.
The pair both attend Llandovery College and North admits it is nice to have a good friend nearby, adding: “It is good, after training we can sit down and talk about rugby and things in general.
“He picks me up when I think I’ve had a bad session or game and I try to do the same.
“We’ve got a really good friendship and I think that is important.”
Being at the Scarlets will give the pair every chance of making the grade in the professional game and North says seeing a few other northerners at the region gives him something to aspire to.
North Walians Rob Higgitt, Andrew Fenby, Rob McCusker and Joel Galley are all making names for themselves at the Llanelli-based region and North is hoping to follow on very soon.
“Sometimes you see them in training,” he said.
“It’s great to know that someone from the same area that I come from is doing so well in South Wales and it does give me something to aim for.”
3.12.09
3.12.09 CORRECTION NWales Cup comps DRAW
The draw for the 2nd round of the NW SENIOR CUP and NW INTER CUP took place at The WRU offices at 4.00 pm on Monday 30th November and was witnessed by Bob Godfrey (Godfrey Edwards).
HOME and AWAY legs to be played by 28th February 2010.
The 'TIE' to be decided by the aggregate score of both games.
NW SENIOR CUP
Ruthin v Pwllheli
(Winners) Colwyn Bay /Llangefni v Nant Conwy
Caernarfon v Bethesda
Mold v Dolgellau/Bro (Winners)
NW SENIOR PLATE
COBRA v (Losers) Colwyn Bay/Llangefni
Dinbych v Rhyl
Bro Ffestiniog/Dolgellau (Losers) - Bye
Bala - Bye
NW INTER CUP
Abergele v Newtown
Machynlleth v Harlech
NW INTER PLATE
Welshpool v Bangor
Wrexham - Bye
HOME and AWAY legs to be played by 28th February 2010.
The 'TIE' to be decided by the aggregate score of both games.
NW SENIOR CUP
Ruthin v Pwllheli
(Winners) Colwyn Bay /Llangefni v Nant Conwy
Caernarfon v Bethesda
Mold v Dolgellau/Bro (Winners)
NW SENIOR PLATE
COBRA v (Losers) Colwyn Bay/Llangefni
Dinbych v Rhyl
Bro Ffestiniog/Dolgellau (Losers) - Bye
Bala - Bye
NW INTER CUP
Abergele v Newtown
Machynlleth v Harlech
NW INTER PLATE
Welshpool v Bangor
Wrexham - Bye
2.12.09
2.12.09 George North and Rhodri Jones in Wales U18 side v Wallabies
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 02 December 2009
JOHN LEADS WALES IN AUSSIE CHALLENGE
Wales Under 18 head coach Simon King has named Ospreys academy and Aberavon centre Ben John as captain of the Wales Under 18 side against Australian Schools at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday (6pm).
King's side includes two uncapped players, outside half Lewis Robling (Dragons) and Cory Hill (Blues), while two north Walians, wing George North and prop Rhodri Jones will start on 'home' turf against the young Aussies. Three other players uncapped at this level - Callum Thomas, Joseff Griffin and Harry Robinson (all Blues academy) are on the bench.
King said, "This is a really exciting challenge for us. As with Warren Gatland's senior side, we need to be pitting ourselves against our southern hemisphere counterparts as often as possible in order to raise our game and take away any potential fear factor. If we play them at a young age, when our players come to play against the same players and teams at later stages in their rugby careers, they will be on more of an equal footing.
"Most of our squad for Saturday played for us at Under 18 level last season. For some, including captain Ben John, it will be their last game in this age group, while others have another season with us.
"Ben is a very physical player, was one of our outstanding performers us last season and I'm sure he will take the responsibility of leading the side very seriously.
"We are looking forward to playing at Parc Eirias. A number of north Wales players have come through the Under 18 set-up in the last couple of years including Joel Galley and James King who are now at the Scarlets and Ospreys respectively. George (North) and Rhodri (Jones) both performed well for us last season and I'm sure they will relish the chance to play in front of a north Wales crowd.
"Australian Schools are traditionally a very strong outfit but we are very keen to kick off the season with a convincing performance on Saturday.
"The WRU will host the Under 18 Six Nations festival at Easter and we want to set out our stall this weekend."
Wales Under 18
Dale Ford (Scarlets); George North (Scarlets), Ben John (capt, Ospreys), Jack Gadd (Exiles), Eli Walker (Ospreys); Lewis Robling (Dragons), Aled Davies (Scarlets); Lewis Smout (Blues), Ieuan Davies (Blues), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets), Cory Hill (Blues), Macauley Cook (Blues), Edward Siggery (Scarlets), Thomas Young (Blues), Ben Thomas (Ospreys)
Replacements:
Gareth Harvey (Ospreys), Trystan Davies (Scarlets), Rowan Jenkins (Scarlets), Luke Hamilton (Scarlets), Callum Thomas (Blues), Daniel Davies (Ospreys), Joseff Griffin (Blues), Harry Robinson (Blues)
Accreditation:
All media wishing to apply for accreditation for the above match should email names, titles and contact details to eirian.edwards@conwy.gov.uk no later than 12 noon, Thursday 3 December 2009. For further information, contact Eirian Edwards on (01492) 576007 or Alun Pritchard on (01492) 575948.
Issued: 02 December 2009
JOHN LEADS WALES IN AUSSIE CHALLENGE
Wales Under 18 head coach Simon King has named Ospreys academy and Aberavon centre Ben John as captain of the Wales Under 18 side against Australian Schools at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday (6pm).
King's side includes two uncapped players, outside half Lewis Robling (Dragons) and Cory Hill (Blues), while two north Walians, wing George North and prop Rhodri Jones will start on 'home' turf against the young Aussies. Three other players uncapped at this level - Callum Thomas, Joseff Griffin and Harry Robinson (all Blues academy) are on the bench.
King said, "This is a really exciting challenge for us. As with Warren Gatland's senior side, we need to be pitting ourselves against our southern hemisphere counterparts as often as possible in order to raise our game and take away any potential fear factor. If we play them at a young age, when our players come to play against the same players and teams at later stages in their rugby careers, they will be on more of an equal footing.
"Most of our squad for Saturday played for us at Under 18 level last season. For some, including captain Ben John, it will be their last game in this age group, while others have another season with us.
"Ben is a very physical player, was one of our outstanding performers us last season and I'm sure he will take the responsibility of leading the side very seriously.
"We are looking forward to playing at Parc Eirias. A number of north Wales players have come through the Under 18 set-up in the last couple of years including Joel Galley and James King who are now at the Scarlets and Ospreys respectively. George (North) and Rhodri (Jones) both performed well for us last season and I'm sure they will relish the chance to play in front of a north Wales crowd.
"Australian Schools are traditionally a very strong outfit but we are very keen to kick off the season with a convincing performance on Saturday.
"The WRU will host the Under 18 Six Nations festival at Easter and we want to set out our stall this weekend."
Wales Under 18
Dale Ford (Scarlets); George North (Scarlets), Ben John (capt, Ospreys), Jack Gadd (Exiles), Eli Walker (Ospreys); Lewis Robling (Dragons), Aled Davies (Scarlets); Lewis Smout (Blues), Ieuan Davies (Blues), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets), Cory Hill (Blues), Macauley Cook (Blues), Edward Siggery (Scarlets), Thomas Young (Blues), Ben Thomas (Ospreys)
Replacements:
Gareth Harvey (Ospreys), Trystan Davies (Scarlets), Rowan Jenkins (Scarlets), Luke Hamilton (Scarlets), Callum Thomas (Blues), Daniel Davies (Ospreys), Joseff Griffin (Blues), Harry Robinson (Blues)
Accreditation:
All media wishing to apply for accreditation for the above match should email names, titles and contact details to eirian.edwards@conwy.gov.uk no later than 12 noon, Thursday 3 December 2009. For further information, contact Eirian Edwards on (01492) 576007 or Alun Pritchard on (01492) 575948.
02.12.09 Level 1 Referee Courses 2010
Level 1 Referee Courses
Winter 2010
31st Jan Taibach RFC
7th Feb Llandaff RFC
21st Feb Rhyl RFC Social Club
28th Feb Crosskeys RFC
7th Mar Carmarthen Quins RFC
Course Duration 0930 - 1600
Registration 0900 - 0930
Further details and application forms can be obtained from
David R Davies 02920822420 davidrdavies@wru.co.uk
Marcia Harding 02920822419 mharding@wru.co.uk
Closing Date is 1 week prior to course date
Course costs £15, non refundable, includes buffet lunch.
To book a place, completed application form and fee must be received in the Referees Department.
Winter 2010
31st Jan Taibach RFC
7th Feb Llandaff RFC
21st Feb Rhyl RFC Social Club
28th Feb Crosskeys RFC
7th Mar Carmarthen Quins RFC
Course Duration 0930 - 1600
Registration 0900 - 0930
Further details and application forms can be obtained from
David R Davies 02920822420 davidrdavies@wru.co.uk
Marcia Harding 02920822419 mharding@wru.co.uk
Closing Date is 1 week prior to course date
Course costs £15, non refundable, includes buffet lunch.
To book a place, completed application form and fee must be received in the Referees Department.
1.12.09
01.12.09 COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR WALLABIES CLASH
Date: December 1 2009 at 3.00pm
NWRC PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 1 DECEMBER 2009
WALES U18s v AUSTRALIA SCHOOLS U!8 - Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday 5 December (6pm).
The much awaited clash between these two exciting young sides is only days away. The game will be the Australians third match of a seven-match tour of the UK and Ireland which ends with a Test against England Under 18 on Saturday, 19 December.
Simon King’s young dragons will be out to avenge the defeat inflicted by the Australian senior touring squad on Wales at the Millennium stadium last Saturday and expectations are high.
King said: "We will pick a strong squad largely based on last year's Six Nations squad for this match. It's a great opportunity for all of us to be able to play against a national southern hemisphere side. As with the senior side, the more regular contact we have with these teams, the better. When these players come up against the same players at a later stage, they will be more confident having already met them.
Amongst the squad members are two very talented home-grown players – George North and Rhodri Jones.(Bio-pics below) and all of the North Wales rugby fraternity will be willing them to do well.
Over 2000 free tickets have already been distributed to clubs and schools across the region and the message is to get there early.
Leisure Centre Manager, Mally Tidswell is urging fans to arrive in plenty of time:
“We have designated car parks close to Parc Eirias and have worked closely with the police to ensure that they are used to the full. These will be found at the Civic Centre, Police HQ, Tennis Centre, Eirias High School, Colwyn Leisure Centre, Douglas Road, Princes Drive, Ivy Street, Landsdowne Road and the Promenade from A55 to the Pier.
Conwy County Council, who have given tremendous support to this match are also supplying ‘ponchos’ to every spectator in case of rain – a marvelous gesture to keep the crowds happy and dry!
This will be the first Test match in north Wales since Wales played Romania in August 2003. An Australian Schools side, together with all three Ella brothers, played a North Wales side in Llandudno in 1977, winning 66-0. The current Australian senior side includes three players who were playing for their schools XV three years ago.
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council said: "We are delighted to be hosting this international game at Parc Eirias and hope that it is the first of many. The Council is committed to creating a centre of sporting excellence at Parc Eirias and making sure that the regeneration and economic opportunities that arise benefit the whole region.
Tickets for the match are £7 for adults and £2 for Under 16s in the Grandstand and £5 for adults and free entry for Under 16s in the Terrace. Tickets go on sale on Monday 23 November at Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre and through Venue Cymru - www.venuecymru.co.uk and by calling 01492 872000.
George North
Welsh speaker George was born in 1991 in King’s Lynn Norfolk the family, two older sisters and brother moving to Anglesey when he was 3 yrs old. Attended Valley Primary School where his father is the local blacksmith and then Ysgol Bodedern. Followed his elder brother’s footsteps and represented Ynys Mon at soccer but attracted to rugby and played various age groups at Llangefni, Pwllheli and Rhyl. George was a member of the very successful Gogledd Cymru U16 side, which beat the Scarlets in 2007.George undoubted potential was recognised early, and he is now in the Scarlets academy whilst studying at Llandovery College. He is very keen to progress his rugby career and his ultimate ambition is to get a full Welsh cap to go with his Wales U18 and honours. North Wales are very proud of his achievements so far and watch the progress of this strong running centre with considerable interest. George is grateful for the local and family support and opportunities he got in his early years and is excited by the prospect of semi pro /academy in North Wales.
Rhodri Jones
Rhodri a farmer’s son hails from Pennal near Machynlleth. Born in 1991he has two elder brothers who play rugby at Machynlleth and a younger sister. Attended. local Pennal primary school before moving to Ysgol Tywyn. Started playing rugby at an early age (, he was also a keen swimmer), at Machynlleth before moving to Pwllheli where he was a member of their successful U15 team, which achieved back-to-back Eryri Cup trophies. Like his fellow squad member George North he was an influential member of the ground breaking Gogledd Cymru U16 team, which defeated the Scarlets in 2007.Has, represented Wales U18 last year when he was awarded man of the match against Italy. Currently in Scarlets academy whilst studying at Llandovery College, hopes to study product design at Swansea University next year but he has a burning ambition to be a professional rugby player and achieve his ultimate goal of a full welsh cap. He attributes his renowned scrummaging strength and stamina to helping his father on the farm and home cooking when his busy schedule allows him back to Pennal.
For further information, contact John Roberts, Communications Officer NWRC on 07774132262 or at johnwyn@hotmail.com
ends
NWRC PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 1 DECEMBER 2009
WALES U18s v AUSTRALIA SCHOOLS U!8 - Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday 5 December (6pm).
The much awaited clash between these two exciting young sides is only days away. The game will be the Australians third match of a seven-match tour of the UK and Ireland which ends with a Test against England Under 18 on Saturday, 19 December.
Simon King’s young dragons will be out to avenge the defeat inflicted by the Australian senior touring squad on Wales at the Millennium stadium last Saturday and expectations are high.
King said: "We will pick a strong squad largely based on last year's Six Nations squad for this match. It's a great opportunity for all of us to be able to play against a national southern hemisphere side. As with the senior side, the more regular contact we have with these teams, the better. When these players come up against the same players at a later stage, they will be more confident having already met them.
Amongst the squad members are two very talented home-grown players – George North and Rhodri Jones.(Bio-pics below) and all of the North Wales rugby fraternity will be willing them to do well.
Over 2000 free tickets have already been distributed to clubs and schools across the region and the message is to get there early.
Leisure Centre Manager, Mally Tidswell is urging fans to arrive in plenty of time:
“We have designated car parks close to Parc Eirias and have worked closely with the police to ensure that they are used to the full. These will be found at the Civic Centre, Police HQ, Tennis Centre, Eirias High School, Colwyn Leisure Centre, Douglas Road, Princes Drive, Ivy Street, Landsdowne Road and the Promenade from A55 to the Pier.
Conwy County Council, who have given tremendous support to this match are also supplying ‘ponchos’ to every spectator in case of rain – a marvelous gesture to keep the crowds happy and dry!
This will be the first Test match in north Wales since Wales played Romania in August 2003. An Australian Schools side, together with all three Ella brothers, played a North Wales side in Llandudno in 1977, winning 66-0. The current Australian senior side includes three players who were playing for their schools XV three years ago.
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council said: "We are delighted to be hosting this international game at Parc Eirias and hope that it is the first of many. The Council is committed to creating a centre of sporting excellence at Parc Eirias and making sure that the regeneration and economic opportunities that arise benefit the whole region.
Tickets for the match are £7 for adults and £2 for Under 16s in the Grandstand and £5 for adults and free entry for Under 16s in the Terrace. Tickets go on sale on Monday 23 November at Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre and through Venue Cymru - www.venuecymru.co.uk and by calling 01492 872000.
George North
Welsh speaker George was born in 1991 in King’s Lynn Norfolk the family, two older sisters and brother moving to Anglesey when he was 3 yrs old. Attended Valley Primary School where his father is the local blacksmith and then Ysgol Bodedern. Followed his elder brother’s footsteps and represented Ynys Mon at soccer but attracted to rugby and played various age groups at Llangefni, Pwllheli and Rhyl. George was a member of the very successful Gogledd Cymru U16 side, which beat the Scarlets in 2007.George undoubted potential was recognised early, and he is now in the Scarlets academy whilst studying at Llandovery College. He is very keen to progress his rugby career and his ultimate ambition is to get a full Welsh cap to go with his Wales U18 and honours. North Wales are very proud of his achievements so far and watch the progress of this strong running centre with considerable interest. George is grateful for the local and family support and opportunities he got in his early years and is excited by the prospect of semi pro /academy in North Wales.
Rhodri Jones
Rhodri a farmer’s son hails from Pennal near Machynlleth. Born in 1991he has two elder brothers who play rugby at Machynlleth and a younger sister. Attended. local Pennal primary school before moving to Ysgol Tywyn. Started playing rugby at an early age (, he was also a keen swimmer), at Machynlleth before moving to Pwllheli where he was a member of their successful U15 team, which achieved back-to-back Eryri Cup trophies. Like his fellow squad member George North he was an influential member of the ground breaking Gogledd Cymru U16 team, which defeated the Scarlets in 2007.Has, represented Wales U18 last year when he was awarded man of the match against Italy. Currently in Scarlets academy whilst studying at Llandovery College, hopes to study product design at Swansea University next year but he has a burning ambition to be a professional rugby player and achieve his ultimate goal of a full welsh cap. He attributes his renowned scrummaging strength and stamina to helping his father on the farm and home cooking when his busy schedule allows him back to Pennal.
For further information, contact John Roberts, Communications Officer NWRC on 07774132262 or at johnwyn@hotmail.com
ends
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