Green light for £6m sports and concert venue at Eirias Park
Jan 14 2010 by Richard Evans, Daily Post
Eirias Park
A £6m new sports complex and concert venue will be built in a move hoped to kick start the regeneration of Colwyn Bay.
Councillors yesterday granted planning permission for a new 2,000 all seater stand to be the new home for Welsh rugby at Eiras Park.
The development, paid for out of Assembly and European funding, will also include a new pitch cover system, indoor training centre containing four indoor football pitches, and a high-performance gym.
It is hoped it will attract North Wales top athletes, pop stars, international conferences, and kick-start Colwyn Bay’s massive regeneration effort.
The complex is scheduled to be complete by December 2010- ready for preparation for the London 2012 Olympics.
A North Wales rugby academy has already been established at Eirias Park to hone top talent together with the Welsh Rugby Union.
Councillors were eager for the project to get the go-ahead and were excited at the prospect of Eirias Park’s capacity being boosted to a 3,000 seater stadium, with room for 3,000 more standing.
The stadium will also include corporate VIP boxes and new floodlights.
Speaking after yesterday’s planning meeting Cllr Brian Cossey said it was great news for the town and its image: “It will be a tremendous boost for Colwyn Bay.
“To have what will be a regional rugby team playing out of Colwyn Bay will be a great benefit. Then there is the spin-off of all the other sports; having a regional sports centre will attract top athletes and open air concerts, so it isn’t just sport, we could well have pop stars and opera stars performing in Colwyn Bay.”
Cllr Abdul Khan agreed: “This is good news for Colwyn Bay, it is positive, it will put Colwyn Bay on the map and the Gogledd Cymru rugby team will make the town its home and bring more people into Colwyn Bay.
Rhiw ward councillor Trevor Stott added: “I think this is fantastic news. For a few years now there has been a bit of pessimism about Colwyn Bay so this just the thing we need.
“This can be the forerunner for the regeneration of Colwyn Bay. We now need to look at the amenities and leisure facilities in terms of tourism and hotels providing first class accommodation and facilities for visitors.”
As part of the planning process a visit was made to Arsenal Football Club’s training facilities to get a feel for how the Eirias Park development would be
14.1.10
14.1.10. Canadians beef up RG1404
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 14 January 2010
Canadians to beef up northern ambition
Nine elite Canadian rugby players have arrived to beef up the newly-launched North Wales regional rugby side, RGC (Rygbi Gogledd Cymru) 1404.
The nine were unveiled today at a special press conference at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay, headquarters of the ambitious new region.
RGC 1404 - 1404 commemorates the date when Welsh hero Owain Glyndwr was crowned Prince of Wales - will play at least ten fixtures this season, in a bid to raise the standard of representative rugby in north Wales while developing home grown talent through the establishment of a WRU academy for north Wales.
And this week's snow and ice gave the cream of Canada's up and coming rugby talent an early reminder of home - though back row forward Jebb Sinclair pointed out: "Back in New Brunswick it's -25C and there's two foot of snow. I actually began the trip over here on a skidoo."
For 23-year-old Jebb Wales is a lot closer to home than the headquarters of Canadian rugby in British Columbia on the west coast - New Brunswick on the Atlantic is just 3,000 miles from Colwyn Bay - it's another 4,000 to Vancouver, BC.
No-one was more pleased to see the Canadianms than RGC 1404 coach Clive Griffiths, the dual code international who masterminded the defence strategy of the 2005 Wales Grand Slam side.
He said: "They've settled in very quickly and are really looking forward to getting out on the pitch.
"They're a very committed bunch, their attitude is superb and it's just a question of integrating them along with the boys we have coming up from South Wales with the players we have in the North.
"Certainly the skill levels and the attitude and professionalism is something we want to rub off on our lads.
"They're from different cultures but at the end of the day we're all rugby people and they know what it's all about.
"They can offer us a lot and we can offer them the chance to get a higher level of competition and a higher standard of rugby than they could back home."
Overseeing the introduction of the Canadians to North Wales is former Canada and Wales lock forward John Tait, now Canada's Assistant National Team Coach (Forwards) who will be using video monitoring to keep a check on his charges even after he returns to Canada.
He said: "These players are all part of the National Elite squad and train full time and I'm over to help them bed in.
"It's a fantastic opportunity and now it's up to them. They're under some pressure because if they don't cut it the other half of the squad are chomping at the bit to come out and get their chance.
"They're all in contention for places in our World Cup squad in New Zealand next year so this gives them a real opportunity to see them at a higher level.
"We're also delighted to be in at the start of such an ambitious project and to be able to give something back to Welsh rugby."
Jebb Sinclair, with ten caps already including an appearance at the Millennium Stadium against Wales in 2008 - alongside full back Ciaran Hearn who is also in the party - is certainly eying a World Cup place.
He plays for the Castaway Wanderers in Victoria, British Columbia, and said: "It's a great opportunity for me to play at a higher level and I'm really excited about it.
"It's fantastic to be in at the start of this project for North Wales and we can't wait to get out and play."
Prop Tom Dolezel, 25, from London, Ontario, originally chose American football as a career when he was at university and was signed for the Candian Football League by the Calgary Stampeders.
He was a 295-lb defensive tackle but has made the switch back, slimmed down to 262lbs and is now a loose head prop: "It's a lot easier on the knees being 262," he said: "But I'm ecstatic to be here and can't wait to get some games and some experience. It's a huge opportunity for me.
"I'm very raw but I've got a lot of physicality - I just need to learn how to use it."
RGC 1404's first match is scheduled for tomorrow night at Parc Eirias against Leicester Tigers Development XV and nine other fixtures have also been lined up against good quality opposition.
WRU Board representative for North Wales Peredur Jenkins said: "This heralds a new era for rugby in north Wales and is an exciting and innovative development in Welsh rugby.
"Our aim is to give young talented players in north Wales, the chance to develop to their potential within their own area, and to give the people of north Wales high quality rugby on their doorstep.
"I appeal to everyone across north Wales to attend the matches at Parc Eirias to support our own representative team."
Kenton Morgan, chair, CIC Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said: "This is an historic moment in North Wales rugby. It's a new era and a lot of people have contributed from Rugby Canada, the International Rugby Board, the Welsh Rugby Union and Conwy County Borough Council.
"We believe that one day North Wales will be the best team in Europe and it's because of the effort that all those organisations and all the people involved in this have made."
Canadians in RGC 1404:
Nick Blevins
Current Team: Canada
Position: C
Height: 188
Weight: 98
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Birthday: September 11, 1988 (21 Years)
Caps 2
Nick won his first test cap appearance vs Japan in Sendai this past November.
Luke Cudmore
Current Team: BC Bears
Position: Lock
Height: 200 cms
Weight: 140 Kgs
Hometown: Squamish, BC
Date of Birth: September 5, 1984 (25 years)
Caps 1
Debut vs USA at Toyota Park - June 21, 2008
Nanyak Dala (injured)
Current Team: Canada
Position: Flanker
Height: 178
Weight: 94
Hometown: Jos, Nigeria,
Date of Birth: June 18, 1984 (25 years)
Caps 9
Debut vs USA at Twickenham - June 2nd, 2007
Tom Dolezel
Current Team: Canada
Position: Prop
Height: 172
Weight: 104
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Date of Birth: -
Caps 1
Earned his first cap vs Russia in Vancouver on November 28th.
Ciaran Hearn
Current Team: Canada
Position: Full Back
Height: 190
Weight: 100
Hometown: Conception Bay, Newfoundland
Date of Birth: December 30, 1985 (24 years)
Caps 9
Debut: Ireland v Canada at Limerick, Nov 8, 2008
Chauncey O'Toole
Current Team: Canada
Position: Flanker
Height: 184
Weight: 80
Hometown: Belleisle, NB,
Date of Birth: February 22, 1986 (23 years)
Caps 5
Debut: Canada v Ireland at Vancouver, May 23, 2009
Jebb Sinclair
Current Team: Canada
Position: Flanker/second row
Height: 182
Weight: 108
Hometown: Fredericton, NB,
Date of Birth: April 8, 1986 (23 years)
Caps 10
Debut: Portugal v Canada at Lisbon, Nov 1, 2008
Sean White
Current Team: Canada
Position: Scrum-Half
Height: 180
Weight: 83
Hometown: Victoria, BC
Date of Birth: June 28, 1988 (21 years)
Caps 3
Japan v Canada at Sendai, Nov 15, 2009
Doug Wooldridge
Current Team: Canada
Position: Tight-head Prop
Height: 184
Weight: 99
Hometown: Lindsay, Ontario,
Date of Birth: December 19, 1985 (24 years)
Caps 4
Debut: Canada v Georgia at Denver, Colorado, Jun 6, 2009
Stephen Woodward
Current Team: Prairie Wolf Pack
Position: Fly-half
Height: 175 cms
Weight: 83 kgs
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Date of Birth: November 19, 1984 (25 years)
Uncapped
For further information contact
Alistair Syme
Ceidiog Communication
01824 703073
07758 841012
Issued: 14 January 2010
Canadians to beef up northern ambition
Nine elite Canadian rugby players have arrived to beef up the newly-launched North Wales regional rugby side, RGC (Rygbi Gogledd Cymru) 1404.
The nine were unveiled today at a special press conference at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay, headquarters of the ambitious new region.
RGC 1404 - 1404 commemorates the date when Welsh hero Owain Glyndwr was crowned Prince of Wales - will play at least ten fixtures this season, in a bid to raise the standard of representative rugby in north Wales while developing home grown talent through the establishment of a WRU academy for north Wales.
And this week's snow and ice gave the cream of Canada's up and coming rugby talent an early reminder of home - though back row forward Jebb Sinclair pointed out: "Back in New Brunswick it's -25C and there's two foot of snow. I actually began the trip over here on a skidoo."
For 23-year-old Jebb Wales is a lot closer to home than the headquarters of Canadian rugby in British Columbia on the west coast - New Brunswick on the Atlantic is just 3,000 miles from Colwyn Bay - it's another 4,000 to Vancouver, BC.
No-one was more pleased to see the Canadianms than RGC 1404 coach Clive Griffiths, the dual code international who masterminded the defence strategy of the 2005 Wales Grand Slam side.
He said: "They've settled in very quickly and are really looking forward to getting out on the pitch.
"They're a very committed bunch, their attitude is superb and it's just a question of integrating them along with the boys we have coming up from South Wales with the players we have in the North.
"Certainly the skill levels and the attitude and professionalism is something we want to rub off on our lads.
"They're from different cultures but at the end of the day we're all rugby people and they know what it's all about.
"They can offer us a lot and we can offer them the chance to get a higher level of competition and a higher standard of rugby than they could back home."
Overseeing the introduction of the Canadians to North Wales is former Canada and Wales lock forward John Tait, now Canada's Assistant National Team Coach (Forwards) who will be using video monitoring to keep a check on his charges even after he returns to Canada.
He said: "These players are all part of the National Elite squad and train full time and I'm over to help them bed in.
"It's a fantastic opportunity and now it's up to them. They're under some pressure because if they don't cut it the other half of the squad are chomping at the bit to come out and get their chance.
"They're all in contention for places in our World Cup squad in New Zealand next year so this gives them a real opportunity to see them at a higher level.
"We're also delighted to be in at the start of such an ambitious project and to be able to give something back to Welsh rugby."
Jebb Sinclair, with ten caps already including an appearance at the Millennium Stadium against Wales in 2008 - alongside full back Ciaran Hearn who is also in the party - is certainly eying a World Cup place.
He plays for the Castaway Wanderers in Victoria, British Columbia, and said: "It's a great opportunity for me to play at a higher level and I'm really excited about it.
"It's fantastic to be in at the start of this project for North Wales and we can't wait to get out and play."
Prop Tom Dolezel, 25, from London, Ontario, originally chose American football as a career when he was at university and was signed for the Candian Football League by the Calgary Stampeders.
He was a 295-lb defensive tackle but has made the switch back, slimmed down to 262lbs and is now a loose head prop: "It's a lot easier on the knees being 262," he said: "But I'm ecstatic to be here and can't wait to get some games and some experience. It's a huge opportunity for me.
"I'm very raw but I've got a lot of physicality - I just need to learn how to use it."
RGC 1404's first match is scheduled for tomorrow night at Parc Eirias against Leicester Tigers Development XV and nine other fixtures have also been lined up against good quality opposition.
WRU Board representative for North Wales Peredur Jenkins said: "This heralds a new era for rugby in north Wales and is an exciting and innovative development in Welsh rugby.
"Our aim is to give young talented players in north Wales, the chance to develop to their potential within their own area, and to give the people of north Wales high quality rugby on their doorstep.
"I appeal to everyone across north Wales to attend the matches at Parc Eirias to support our own representative team."
Kenton Morgan, chair, CIC Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said: "This is an historic moment in North Wales rugby. It's a new era and a lot of people have contributed from Rugby Canada, the International Rugby Board, the Welsh Rugby Union and Conwy County Borough Council.
"We believe that one day North Wales will be the best team in Europe and it's because of the effort that all those organisations and all the people involved in this have made."
Canadians in RGC 1404:
Nick Blevins
Current Team: Canada
Position: C
Height: 188
Weight: 98
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Birthday: September 11, 1988 (21 Years)
Caps 2
Nick won his first test cap appearance vs Japan in Sendai this past November.
Luke Cudmore
Current Team: BC Bears
Position: Lock
Height: 200 cms
Weight: 140 Kgs
Hometown: Squamish, BC
Date of Birth: September 5, 1984 (25 years)
Caps 1
Debut vs USA at Toyota Park - June 21, 2008
Nanyak Dala (injured)
Current Team: Canada
Position: Flanker
Height: 178
Weight: 94
Hometown: Jos, Nigeria,
Date of Birth: June 18, 1984 (25 years)
Caps 9
Debut vs USA at Twickenham - June 2nd, 2007
Tom Dolezel
Current Team: Canada
Position: Prop
Height: 172
Weight: 104
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Date of Birth: -
Caps 1
Earned his first cap vs Russia in Vancouver on November 28th.
Ciaran Hearn
Current Team: Canada
Position: Full Back
Height: 190
Weight: 100
Hometown: Conception Bay, Newfoundland
Date of Birth: December 30, 1985 (24 years)
Caps 9
Debut: Ireland v Canada at Limerick, Nov 8, 2008
Chauncey O'Toole
Current Team: Canada
Position: Flanker
Height: 184
Weight: 80
Hometown: Belleisle, NB,
Date of Birth: February 22, 1986 (23 years)
Caps 5
Debut: Canada v Ireland at Vancouver, May 23, 2009
Jebb Sinclair
Current Team: Canada
Position: Flanker/second row
Height: 182
Weight: 108
Hometown: Fredericton, NB,
Date of Birth: April 8, 1986 (23 years)
Caps 10
Debut: Portugal v Canada at Lisbon, Nov 1, 2008
Sean White
Current Team: Canada
Position: Scrum-Half
Height: 180
Weight: 83
Hometown: Victoria, BC
Date of Birth: June 28, 1988 (21 years)
Caps 3
Japan v Canada at Sendai, Nov 15, 2009
Doug Wooldridge
Current Team: Canada
Position: Tight-head Prop
Height: 184
Weight: 99
Hometown: Lindsay, Ontario,
Date of Birth: December 19, 1985 (24 years)
Caps 4
Debut: Canada v Georgia at Denver, Colorado, Jun 6, 2009
Stephen Woodward
Current Team: Prairie Wolf Pack
Position: Fly-half
Height: 175 cms
Weight: 83 kgs
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Date of Birth: November 19, 1984 (25 years)
Uncapped
For further information contact
Alistair Syme
Ceidiog Communication
01824 703073
07758 841012
13.1.10
13.1.10 Details of Canadian Players arrival in NWales
RUGBY Canada have named the 10 professional players who arrived yesterday to bolster Gogledd Cymru’s bid for semi-professional rugby.
The players are all part of the Sport Canada government carding programme
and will receive their regular salary while participating in the four-month schedule that will see the North Wales side play a variety of professional academy sides and semi-pro clubs.
Four of the Canadian players come via the Prairie Wolf Pack of the Americas Rugby Championship.
Centre Nick Blevins, prop Tom Dolezel (also an Ontario Blue) along with fly-half Steve Woodward make the move, while flanker Nanyak Dala is delayed while recovering from a facial injury sustained during Canada’s recent tour to Japan.
Second-row Luke Cudmore and Sean White of the BC Bears will also figure into the squad, while the Ontario Blues add prop Doug Wooldridge.
The Rock contribute three key players with Newfoundland’s Ciaran Hearn fulfilling a back three role, and flanker Chauncey O’Toole and second row/back row Jebb Sinclair also getting the nod.
Former Grand Slam-winning coach Clive Griffiths was announced as head coach for Gogledd Cymru last month, with existing coach John Aby staying on as an assistant.
THE CANADIAN 10: Nick Blevins – centre (Prairie Wolf Pack), Luke Cudmore – second-row (BC Bears), Nanyak Dala – flanker (Prairie Wolf Pack), Tom Dolezel – prop (Prairie Wolf Pack and Ontario Blues), Ciaran Hearn – back-row (Atlantic Rock), Chauncey O’Toole – back-row (Atlantic Rock), Jebb Sinclair – second-row/back-row (Atlantic Rock), Sean White – scrum-half (BC Bears), Doug Wooldridge – prop (Ontario Blues), Steve Woodward – fly-half (Prairie Wolf Pack).
NORTH WALES FIXTURES 2010: January 15 v Leicester Tigers Development XV (Eirias Park), January 20 v Antiassassins – Chester (away), January 30 v Glamorgan Wanderers (away), February 2/3 v Scarlets (Llandovery), February 17 v Worcester (Eirias Park), February 23 v Sale Jets (Eirias Park), March 10 v Leeds (Eirias Park), March 19 v Oxford University (Eirias Park), April 17 v Cross Keys (Eirias Park).
The players are all part of the Sport Canada government carding programme
and will receive their regular salary while participating in the four-month schedule that will see the North Wales side play a variety of professional academy sides and semi-pro clubs.
Four of the Canadian players come via the Prairie Wolf Pack of the Americas Rugby Championship.
Centre Nick Blevins, prop Tom Dolezel (also an Ontario Blue) along with fly-half Steve Woodward make the move, while flanker Nanyak Dala is delayed while recovering from a facial injury sustained during Canada’s recent tour to Japan.
Second-row Luke Cudmore and Sean White of the BC Bears will also figure into the squad, while the Ontario Blues add prop Doug Wooldridge.
The Rock contribute three key players with Newfoundland’s Ciaran Hearn fulfilling a back three role, and flanker Chauncey O’Toole and second row/back row Jebb Sinclair also getting the nod.
Former Grand Slam-winning coach Clive Griffiths was announced as head coach for Gogledd Cymru last month, with existing coach John Aby staying on as an assistant.
THE CANADIAN 10: Nick Blevins – centre (Prairie Wolf Pack), Luke Cudmore – second-row (BC Bears), Nanyak Dala – flanker (Prairie Wolf Pack), Tom Dolezel – prop (Prairie Wolf Pack and Ontario Blues), Ciaran Hearn – back-row (Atlantic Rock), Chauncey O’Toole – back-row (Atlantic Rock), Jebb Sinclair – second-row/back-row (Atlantic Rock), Sean White – scrum-half (BC Bears), Doug Wooldridge – prop (Ontario Blues), Steve Woodward – fly-half (Prairie Wolf Pack).
NORTH WALES FIXTURES 2010: January 15 v Leicester Tigers Development XV (Eirias Park), January 20 v Antiassassins – Chester (away), January 30 v Glamorgan Wanderers (away), February 2/3 v Scarlets (Llandovery), February 17 v Worcester (Eirias Park), February 23 v Sale Jets (Eirias Park), March 10 v Leeds (Eirias Park), March 19 v Oxford University (Eirias Park), April 17 v Cross Keys (Eirias Park).
11.1.10
11.1.10. "N.Wales crucial and needs own identity" -Nigel Davies per DPost
North Wales is crucial claims Scarlets boss
Jan 11 2010 by Our Correspondent, Daily Post
SCARLETS head coach Nigel Davies believes each of the four professional sides have the right to cherry pick the best from North Wales.
North Walians Rob Higgitt, Rob McCusker and Andy Fenby are current Scarlets, while academy starlets Joel Galley, Rhodri Jones and George North also all hail from the north, but Davies accepts each of Wales’ regions now has the right to seek out the North’s top talent.
And he also acceptss the Scarlets’ efforts to develop rugby in North Wales have not been entirely fruitful.
“We’ve obviously tried to do it with varying degrees of success,” said Davies. “It’s been difficult, I think, due to the geography and the financial resources to do it properly.
“And obviously now North Wales has been set up as a development region, which almost sets them apart a little bit from ourselves, but we are still very keen to continue some of the links we have in North Wales.
But Davies was all in favour of a North Wales region, adding: “I’m not too sure on how the region are looking at it, but I’m a firm believer that the north of Wales does need its own identity.
“That will only help grow the game in Wales and the north of Wales and means that we have more player numbers in the whole of Wales to choose from.
“So I’m a firm believer in that.”
Jan 11 2010 by Our Correspondent, Daily Post
SCARLETS head coach Nigel Davies believes each of the four professional sides have the right to cherry pick the best from North Wales.
North Walians Rob Higgitt, Rob McCusker and Andy Fenby are current Scarlets, while academy starlets Joel Galley, Rhodri Jones and George North also all hail from the north, but Davies accepts each of Wales’ regions now has the right to seek out the North’s top talent.
And he also acceptss the Scarlets’ efforts to develop rugby in North Wales have not been entirely fruitful.
“We’ve obviously tried to do it with varying degrees of success,” said Davies. “It’s been difficult, I think, due to the geography and the financial resources to do it properly.
“And obviously now North Wales has been set up as a development region, which almost sets them apart a little bit from ourselves, but we are still very keen to continue some of the links we have in North Wales.
But Davies was all in favour of a North Wales region, adding: “I’m not too sure on how the region are looking at it, but I’m a firm believer that the north of Wales does need its own identity.
“That will only help grow the game in Wales and the north of Wales and means that we have more player numbers in the whole of Wales to choose from.
“So I’m a firm believer in that.”
10.1.10
10.01.10 NWRC MOURNS THE DEATH OF BETHESDA PRESIDENT
North Wales Rugby Council would like to offer condolences to the family of Brian Williams, President of Bethesda Rugby Club who died tragically this week.He was a true friend of the game and to everyone associated with the game of rugby in North Wales. He will be sadly missed.
Other tributes have also been paid to the Gwynedd lorry driver who died in a road accident with another heavy goods vehicle on the A470 in Powys.
Brian Williams, 64, was well-known as the president of Bethesda Rugby Club near Bangor.
He owned Ogwen Transport at Sling near Tregarth, Bangor, and was driving one of his own lorries.
His friend, Huw Jones, said he would not have wanted to let his customers down during the bad weather.
He added Mr Williams was very well liked and respected within the community and was always ready to lend a hand.
"He could have retired but he liked to drive, and he would not have wanted to let his customers down," Mr Jones, who is chairman of Bethesda Rugby Club said.
"Apparently he got up at five to check the conditions, which were too bad to start off, but by 9am he decided he would chance it," he added.
Mr Williams leaves a wife, Helen, and daughter Lucy.
"We had known each other for years, and he was really quiet, but still quite a character," said Mr Jones.
"He only went to the rugby club to drink, because he said he liked it there with the boys, and he used to play rugby for the club when he was younger."
Mr Jones said the death had shocked the whole community.
"A friend was over from America to see him at the weekend, and they were laughing and joking, he only went back on Monday... and then this happened, and he's coming back again now for the funeral."
"Everyone thought the world of Brian, he was a real gentle giant," he added.
Mr Williams died when his truck was in collision with another heavy goods vehicle in an area known locally as Quarry Corner near Rhayader, Powys.
The other driver suffered serious injuries and is being treated at Morriston Hospital in Swansea.
Other tributes have also been paid to the Gwynedd lorry driver who died in a road accident with another heavy goods vehicle on the A470 in Powys.
Brian Williams, 64, was well-known as the president of Bethesda Rugby Club near Bangor.
He owned Ogwen Transport at Sling near Tregarth, Bangor, and was driving one of his own lorries.
His friend, Huw Jones, said he would not have wanted to let his customers down during the bad weather.
He added Mr Williams was very well liked and respected within the community and was always ready to lend a hand.
"He could have retired but he liked to drive, and he would not have wanted to let his customers down," Mr Jones, who is chairman of Bethesda Rugby Club said.
"Apparently he got up at five to check the conditions, which were too bad to start off, but by 9am he decided he would chance it," he added.
Mr Williams leaves a wife, Helen, and daughter Lucy.
"We had known each other for years, and he was really quiet, but still quite a character," said Mr Jones.
"He only went to the rugby club to drink, because he said he liked it there with the boys, and he used to play rugby for the club when he was younger."
Mr Jones said the death had shocked the whole community.
"A friend was over from America to see him at the weekend, and they were laughing and joking, he only went back on Monday... and then this happened, and he's coming back again now for the funeral."
"Everyone thought the world of Brian, he was a real gentle giant," he added.
Mr Williams died when his truck was in collision with another heavy goods vehicle in an area known locally as Quarry Corner near Rhayader, Powys.
The other driver suffered serious injuries and is being treated at Morriston Hospital in Swansea.
7.1.10
7.1.10 Rob would play tighthead !! Daily post
McCusker: 'I will play anywhere for Wales'
Jan 7 2010 by Rob Griffiths, Daily Post
ROB McCUSKER is living proof there is genuine rugby talent in North Wales, and the former Mold youth player is confident more can be harnessed with the measures being put in place within the region.
McCusker, 24, made his first Mangers League start of the season last Thursday in the Scarlets 14-9 win at Welsh rivals Newport Gwent Dragons, playing at number six in place of the injured Simon Easterby.
And the young back-row is hoping that will not be the end of his stint as a starter for the region, adding: “I hope I can still get more opportunities.
“With the injuries at the moment at the club it’s probably more through necessity than anything else the reason why I’m starting. Hopefully it’s not the only reason, and I think I put in a good performance in the game.
“I came off the bench to play against the Ospreys after Simon (Easterby) broke his hand, but I like to think I am playing well at the moment anyway and am doing okay.”
McCusker, however, is not the only North Wales native making a name for himself at the Scarlets, with winger Andy Fenby (from Rhos-on-Sea) and centre Rob Higgitt (Ruthin) also plying their trade at the Llanelli based region.
But McCusker is hoping this influx of players might be the last for a while, as more emphasis is being placed on the newly named RGC 1404 (Gogledd Cymru).
“It’s nice to have a few lads from up in North Wales down here at the Scarlets, but there isn’t too many Gog accents around the place with those two,” McCusker joked.
“Rob has been over in Bristol for a long time and Andy sounds very posh coming from the Colwyn Bay area, and having lived in Newcastle for so long.
“But it’s nice, I actually travelled home with Andy for Christmas. He dropped me off in Wrexham on the way through and it was nice to have someone to talk to on what is a really long drive back home.
“But I think we could be the last for some time to be coming down here what with everything they are doing in North Wales.”
And McCusker is delighted to finally see some excellent progress being made in a area starved for so long of top flight rugby.
Last month former Grand Slam winning coach Clive Griffiths was unveiled as the new head coach of RGC 1404, and that is a massive positive in the eyes of McCusker, who added: “There are a lot of really good coaches in North Wales, but none with the experience and ability of Clive Griffiths.
“It’s massive for rugby up there that they have attracted a coach like Clive Griffiths.”
But would McCusker fancy a move back home if RGC 1404 became a fully fledged professional region?
“Never say never,” he responded. “I think if they get to where they want to be and are playing at elite level, then you never know. But I’m happy here at the Scarlets for the moment.”
It was from his performances last season with the region that earned him a place in the Wales training squad for the summer tour to North America.
While he was eventually cut from the touring party, it was a big enough confidence boost to the player that he is doing something right.
And the call up has also acted as a spark for the former Wales Sevens player to kick on and make the break through for further international honours.
Head coach Warren Gatland recently intimated he was looking for a destructive openside following Wales’ inability at the breakdown during the autumn internationals.
While he has been playing at blindside for the Scarlets in the absence of Easterby, McCusker has been talked about in the same sentence as Sam Warburton and Dan Lydiate as possible international sevens of the future.
But none of that matters to McCusker, who added: “I would play at tighthead if they wanted me too.
“It’s not something I’ve really thought about too much, my first goal is to try and become first choice for my region, once I’ve done that then I can think of going higher. There’s only the four regions to pick from so if you are first choice for that then you give yourself a really good chance of selection.
“But my priority is to play for the Scarlets as much as I can and then maybe give anyone watching something to think about.”
Jan 7 2010 by Rob Griffiths, Daily Post
ROB McCUSKER is living proof there is genuine rugby talent in North Wales, and the former Mold youth player is confident more can be harnessed with the measures being put in place within the region.
McCusker, 24, made his first Mangers League start of the season last Thursday in the Scarlets 14-9 win at Welsh rivals Newport Gwent Dragons, playing at number six in place of the injured Simon Easterby.
And the young back-row is hoping that will not be the end of his stint as a starter for the region, adding: “I hope I can still get more opportunities.
“With the injuries at the moment at the club it’s probably more through necessity than anything else the reason why I’m starting. Hopefully it’s not the only reason, and I think I put in a good performance in the game.
“I came off the bench to play against the Ospreys after Simon (Easterby) broke his hand, but I like to think I am playing well at the moment anyway and am doing okay.”
McCusker, however, is not the only North Wales native making a name for himself at the Scarlets, with winger Andy Fenby (from Rhos-on-Sea) and centre Rob Higgitt (Ruthin) also plying their trade at the Llanelli based region.
But McCusker is hoping this influx of players might be the last for a while, as more emphasis is being placed on the newly named RGC 1404 (Gogledd Cymru).
“It’s nice to have a few lads from up in North Wales down here at the Scarlets, but there isn’t too many Gog accents around the place with those two,” McCusker joked.
“Rob has been over in Bristol for a long time and Andy sounds very posh coming from the Colwyn Bay area, and having lived in Newcastle for so long.
“But it’s nice, I actually travelled home with Andy for Christmas. He dropped me off in Wrexham on the way through and it was nice to have someone to talk to on what is a really long drive back home.
“But I think we could be the last for some time to be coming down here what with everything they are doing in North Wales.”
And McCusker is delighted to finally see some excellent progress being made in a area starved for so long of top flight rugby.
Last month former Grand Slam winning coach Clive Griffiths was unveiled as the new head coach of RGC 1404, and that is a massive positive in the eyes of McCusker, who added: “There are a lot of really good coaches in North Wales, but none with the experience and ability of Clive Griffiths.
“It’s massive for rugby up there that they have attracted a coach like Clive Griffiths.”
But would McCusker fancy a move back home if RGC 1404 became a fully fledged professional region?
“Never say never,” he responded. “I think if they get to where they want to be and are playing at elite level, then you never know. But I’m happy here at the Scarlets for the moment.”
It was from his performances last season with the region that earned him a place in the Wales training squad for the summer tour to North America.
While he was eventually cut from the touring party, it was a big enough confidence boost to the player that he is doing something right.
And the call up has also acted as a spark for the former Wales Sevens player to kick on and make the break through for further international honours.
Head coach Warren Gatland recently intimated he was looking for a destructive openside following Wales’ inability at the breakdown during the autumn internationals.
While he has been playing at blindside for the Scarlets in the absence of Easterby, McCusker has been talked about in the same sentence as Sam Warburton and Dan Lydiate as possible international sevens of the future.
But none of that matters to McCusker, who added: “I would play at tighthead if they wanted me too.
“It’s not something I’ve really thought about too much, my first goal is to try and become first choice for my region, once I’ve done that then I can think of going higher. There’s only the four regions to pick from so if you are first choice for that then you give yourself a really good chance of selection.
“But my priority is to play for the Scarlets as much as I can and then maybe give anyone watching something to think about.”
5.1.10
05.01.10 NEW NAME AND IDENTITY FOR GOGLEDD CYMRU TEAM
NEW NAME AND IDENTITY FOR NORTH WALES RUGBY TEAM
NB Logo attached
A date of major significance in ancient Welsh history has been revived to form the new name and emblem for the reshaped North Wales development team.
The team, previously known as Rygbi Gogledd Cymru, will now be called RGC 1404 which will be emblazoned on a heraldic badge above a golden Welsh dragon alongside an ornate celtic graphic within a knight’s shield.
1404 is the year when Owain Glyndwr was crowned Welsh Prince at Machynlleth and led his Welsh army and supporters under the golden dragon standard.
Now these landmarks from history are being revived to spearhead the RGC 1404 campaign to become a new and powerful force in the representative game.
The newly designed branding is being launched today (Tuesday 5 January) along with details of RGC 1404’s finalised fixture list which kicks off in mid-January 2010.
Ten fixtures have been confirmed for the team starting on Friday 15th January when RGC 1404 take on a Leicester Tigers Development XV at their new home ground in Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay. Other fixtures are still to be added to the schedule.
The team’s golden dragon standard will be raised above their new home base for the first fixture to be played by the relaunched side.
The WRU Head of Rugby Performance and Development, Joe Lydon, said: “We are delighted with the new branding which the players, supporters and officials can wear with pride.
“RGC 1404 signifies the focus to raise the profile and development of rugby across the whole of North Wales and provides an opportunity for the whole region to unite and support that focus.
“The people of North Wales have already proved they have a hunger for top class rugby and this branding proves we want to engage with their hopes and aspirations for the team.”
WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis said: ”Rugby is our national sport here in Wales and it is fitting that our aims for the future are closely linked to our history and heritage off the field as well.”
“Amongst other things rugby is about dedication, loyalty, and honour which are all symbolised in the life story of Owain Glyndwr.
RGC 1404 Head Coach Clive Griffiths said: “We have an exciting fixture list to kick off a new era of north Wales rugby. We have had a great level of cooperation from Premiership clubs in England and Welsh clubs and Regions. The quality of opposition will enable players from north and south Wales along with the Canadians in the squad to challenge themselves against full time and semi-professional players.
“It’s important the players gel as a team under one identity. RGC 1404 will provide that identity and with continued support from the north Wales public, I’m sure that brand will grow year on year.”
WRU Board representative for North Wales, Peredur Jenkins, said: "The new branding of the Gogledd Cymru team - RGC 1404 - heralds a new era for rugby in north Wales – an exciting and innovative development in Welsh rugby.
"Our aim is to give young talented players in north Wales, the chance to develop to their potential within their own area, and to give the people of north Wales high quality rugby on their doorstep.
"I appeal to everyone across north Wales to attend the matches at Parc Eirias to support our own representative team."
Kenton Morgan, chair, CIC Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said:
"Gogledd Cymru has become more than just a team. It also represents the culture of the north Wales region. RGC 1404 was commissioned to make the brand more accessible to supporters from all over the region but the aspirations of Gogledd Cymru remain the same - to provide supporters and players in north Wales with access to high quality rugby."
The RGC 1404 team has already unveiled former Wales defence coach Clive Griffiths as its new Head Coach and announced that ten Canadian international players will arrive next month to bolster the competitive standard of the squad.
The WRU link up with Canadian rugby will involve hosting the players while reducing their numbers as the new National Academy structure in North Wales gradually develops more local players to take their places.
The new logo for RGC 1404 has been designed by Worldspan of Abergele after being commissioned by the WRU.
Today RGC 1404 can confirm ten fixtures for the forthcoming season with all home games to be
played at Parc Eirias.
RGC 1404 fixtures 2010:
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 RFC
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
23/24 April v Dragons, Parc Eirias
For further information, contact:
WRU: Liz Jones Communications manager tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
CYHOEDDI DELWEDD NEWYDD RGC 1404 AR GYFER RYGBI GOGLEDD CYMRU
Mae dyddiad pwysig yn hanes Cymru wedi’i adfywio i ffurfio enw ac emblem newydd ar gyfer tîm datblygu Gogledd Cymru.Rŵan, bydd y tîm yn cael ei alw yn “RGC (Rygbi Gogledd Cymru) 1404” fydd wedi’i nodi ar fathodyn uwchben draig euraidd yn ymyl patrwm Celtaidd addurnedig mewn tarian.
1404 yw’r flwyddyn pan goronwyd Owain Glyndŵr yn Dywysog Cymru ym Machynlleth ac arweiniodd ei fyddin a’i gefnogwyr dan faner y ddraig euraidd.
Rŵan, mae’r cerrig milltir hanesyddol hyn yn cael eu hadfywio i arwain ymgyrch RGC 1404 i fod yn rym newydd a phwerus yn y gêm gynrychioliadol.
Bydd y ddelwedd newydd yn cael ei lansio heddiw gyda manylion rhestr gemau RGC 1404 a gadarnhawyd, fydd yn dechrau ganol Ionawr 2010.
Mae deg gêm wedi’u cadarnhau ar gyfer y tîm, gan ddechrau ddydd Gwener 15 Ionawr pan fydd RGC 1404 yn chwarae yn erbyn Leicester Tigers Development XV yn eu cartref newydd ym Mharc Eirias, Bae Colwyn. Bydd gemau eraill hefyd yn cael eu hychwanegu at y rhestr bresennol.
Bydd baner draig euraidd y tîm yn hedfan uwchben y stadiwm yn ystod gêm gyntaf y tîm.
Dywedodd Pennaeth Perfformiad a Datblygiad Rygbi URC, Joe Lydon: “Rydym wrth ein bodd gyda’r ddelwedd newydd y gall y chwaraewyr, y cefnogwyr a’r swyddogion ei wisgo gyda balchder.
“Mae RGC 1404 yn cynrychioli’r ffocws i wella proffil a datblygiad rygbi ledled Gogledd Cymru ac mae’n rhoi cyfle i’r rhanbarth cyfan uno a chefnogi’r ffocws hwnnw.
“Mae pobl Gogledd Cymru eisoes wedi dangos eu bod yn awyddus i weld rygbi o’r safon uchaf, ac mae’r ddelwedd newydd hon yn profi ein bod yn dymuno cyflawni’r gobeithion a’r dyheadau hyn.
Dywedodd Prif Weithredwr Grŵp URC, Roger Lewis: ”Rygbi yw ein camp genedlaethol yma yng Nghymru ac mae’n briodol felly bod ein hamcanion ar gyfer y dyfodol yn cysylltu’n agos â’n hanes a’n treftadaeth oddi ar y cae hefyd.”
“Ymysg pethau eraill, mae ymrwymiad, teyrngarwch, ac anrhydedd i gyd yn bwysig mewn rygbi, ac mae’r rhain i gyd hefyd yn rhan o stori bywyd Owain Glyndŵr.
Dywedodd Prif Hyfforddwr RGC 1404, Clive Griffiths: “Mae gennym gemau cyffrous i ddechrau cyfnod newydd yn hanes rygbi Gogledd Cymru. Rydym wedi cael cydweithrediad ardderchog gan glybiau’r Prif Gynghrair yn Lloegr a gan glybiau a rhanbarthau Cymru. Bydd ansawdd y timau rydym yn chwarae yn eu herbyn yn rhoi her i’r chwaraewyr o ogledd a de Cymru, yn ogystal â’r chwaraewyr Canadaidd yn y sgwad, wrth iddynt chwarae yn erbyn chwaraewyr llawn amser a lled broffesiynol.
“Mae’n bwysig bod y chwaraewyr yn uno fel tîm. RGC 1404 yw enw a hunaniaeth newydd y tîm, a gyda chefnogaeth barhaus gan y cyhoedd yng Ngogledd Cymru, rwy’n siŵr y bydd yn tyfu blwyddyn ar ôl blwyddyn.”
Dywedodd cynrychiolydd Bwrdd y WRU yng Ngogledd Cymru, Peredur Jenkins: "Mae delwedd newydd tîm Gogledd Cymru - RGC 1404 – yn cyhoeddi dechrau cyfnod newydd ar gyfer rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru – sy’n ddatblygiad cyffrous ac arloesol i rygbi Cymru.
"Ein nod yw rhoi cyfle i chwaraewyr ifanc a thalentog gogledd Cymru i ddatblygu eu potensial yn eu hardal eu hunain, a rhoi cyfle i bobl gogledd Cymru weld rygbi o safon uchel ar garreg eu drws.
"Rwy’n erfyn ar bawb, ledled gogledd Cymru i ddod i weld y gemau ym Mharc Eirias i gefnogi ein tîm."
Dywedodd Kenton Morgan, cadeirydd CIC Rygbi Gogledd Cymru: "Mae Gogledd Cymru wedi datblygu i fod yn fwy na thîm. Mae hefyd yn cynrychioli diwylliant rhanbarth gogledd Cymru. Comisiynwyd RGC 1404 i wneud y ddelwedd yn fwy hygyrch i gefnogwyr o bob rhan o’r rhanbarth, ond mae dyheadau Gogledd Cymru yn aros yr un fath – darparu rygbi o safon uchel i gefnogwyr a chwaraewyr yng ngogledd Cymru."
Mae tîm RGC 1404 eisoes wedi cyhoeddi mai cyn hyfforddwr amddiffyn Cymru, Clive Griffiths, yw eu Prif Hyfforddwr, ac wedi cyhoeddi y bydd deg chwaraewr rhyngwladol o Ganada yn cyrraedd fis nesaf i gryfhau safon gystadleuol y sgwad.
Mae’r cyswllt rhwng y WRU a rygbi Canada yn golygu y bydd y chwaraewyr o Ganada yn chwarae gyda’r tîm, ond wrth i’r strwythur Academi Genedlaethol yng Ngogledd Cymru ddatblygu yn raddol bydd y niferoedd yn lleihau wrth i ragor o chwaraewyr lleol ymuno â’r tîm.
Mae’r logo newydd ar gyfer RGC 1404 wedi’i gynllunio gan Worldspan o Abergele ar ôl iddo gael ei gomisiynu gan y WRU.
Heddiw gall RGC 1404 gadarnhau deg gêm ar gyfer y tymor sydd i ddod, a bydd pob gêm gartref yn cael eu chwarae ym Mharc Eirias.
Gemau RGC 1404 yn 2010:
Gwener 15 Ionawr v Leicester Tigers Development XV – Parc Eirias
Mercher 20 Ionawr v Antiassassins (Caer) – oddi cartref
Sadwrn 30 Ionawr v Crwydriaid Morgannwg – oddi cartref
2 / 3 Chwefror v Scarlets, Clwb Rygbi – Llanymddyfri
Mercher 17 Chwefror v Caerwrangon – Parc Eirias
Mercher 23 Chwefror v Sale Jets – Parc Eirias
Mercher 10 Mawrth v Leeds – Parc Eirias
Gwener 19 Mawrth v Prifysgol Rhydychen – Parc Eirias
Sadwrn 17 Ebrill v Cross Keys – Parc Eirias
23/24 Ebrill v Dreigiau – Parc Eirias
I gael rhagor o wybodaeth, cysylltwch â:
WRU: Liz Jones, Rheolwr Cyfathrebu. 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
ends
© 2010 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use Account Feedback
NB Logo attached
A date of major significance in ancient Welsh history has been revived to form the new name and emblem for the reshaped North Wales development team.
The team, previously known as Rygbi Gogledd Cymru, will now be called RGC 1404 which will be emblazoned on a heraldic badge above a golden Welsh dragon alongside an ornate celtic graphic within a knight’s shield.
1404 is the year when Owain Glyndwr was crowned Welsh Prince at Machynlleth and led his Welsh army and supporters under the golden dragon standard.
Now these landmarks from history are being revived to spearhead the RGC 1404 campaign to become a new and powerful force in the representative game.
The newly designed branding is being launched today (Tuesday 5 January) along with details of RGC 1404’s finalised fixture list which kicks off in mid-January 2010.
Ten fixtures have been confirmed for the team starting on Friday 15th January when RGC 1404 take on a Leicester Tigers Development XV at their new home ground in Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay. Other fixtures are still to be added to the schedule.
The team’s golden dragon standard will be raised above their new home base for the first fixture to be played by the relaunched side.
The WRU Head of Rugby Performance and Development, Joe Lydon, said: “We are delighted with the new branding which the players, supporters and officials can wear with pride.
“RGC 1404 signifies the focus to raise the profile and development of rugby across the whole of North Wales and provides an opportunity for the whole region to unite and support that focus.
“The people of North Wales have already proved they have a hunger for top class rugby and this branding proves we want to engage with their hopes and aspirations for the team.”
WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis said: ”Rugby is our national sport here in Wales and it is fitting that our aims for the future are closely linked to our history and heritage off the field as well.”
“Amongst other things rugby is about dedication, loyalty, and honour which are all symbolised in the life story of Owain Glyndwr.
RGC 1404 Head Coach Clive Griffiths said: “We have an exciting fixture list to kick off a new era of north Wales rugby. We have had a great level of cooperation from Premiership clubs in England and Welsh clubs and Regions. The quality of opposition will enable players from north and south Wales along with the Canadians in the squad to challenge themselves against full time and semi-professional players.
“It’s important the players gel as a team under one identity. RGC 1404 will provide that identity and with continued support from the north Wales public, I’m sure that brand will grow year on year.”
WRU Board representative for North Wales, Peredur Jenkins, said: "The new branding of the Gogledd Cymru team - RGC 1404 - heralds a new era for rugby in north Wales – an exciting and innovative development in Welsh rugby.
"Our aim is to give young talented players in north Wales, the chance to develop to their potential within their own area, and to give the people of north Wales high quality rugby on their doorstep.
"I appeal to everyone across north Wales to attend the matches at Parc Eirias to support our own representative team."
Kenton Morgan, chair, CIC Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said:
"Gogledd Cymru has become more than just a team. It also represents the culture of the north Wales region. RGC 1404 was commissioned to make the brand more accessible to supporters from all over the region but the aspirations of Gogledd Cymru remain the same - to provide supporters and players in north Wales with access to high quality rugby."
The RGC 1404 team has already unveiled former Wales defence coach Clive Griffiths as its new Head Coach and announced that ten Canadian international players will arrive next month to bolster the competitive standard of the squad.
The WRU link up with Canadian rugby will involve hosting the players while reducing their numbers as the new National Academy structure in North Wales gradually develops more local players to take their places.
The new logo for RGC 1404 has been designed by Worldspan of Abergele after being commissioned by the WRU.
Today RGC 1404 can confirm ten fixtures for the forthcoming season with all home games to be
played at Parc Eirias.
RGC 1404 fixtures 2010:
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 RFC
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
23/24 April v Dragons, Parc Eirias
For further information, contact:
WRU: Liz Jones Communications manager tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
CYHOEDDI DELWEDD NEWYDD RGC 1404 AR GYFER RYGBI GOGLEDD CYMRU
Mae dyddiad pwysig yn hanes Cymru wedi’i adfywio i ffurfio enw ac emblem newydd ar gyfer tîm datblygu Gogledd Cymru.Rŵan, bydd y tîm yn cael ei alw yn “RGC (Rygbi Gogledd Cymru) 1404” fydd wedi’i nodi ar fathodyn uwchben draig euraidd yn ymyl patrwm Celtaidd addurnedig mewn tarian.
1404 yw’r flwyddyn pan goronwyd Owain Glyndŵr yn Dywysog Cymru ym Machynlleth ac arweiniodd ei fyddin a’i gefnogwyr dan faner y ddraig euraidd.
Rŵan, mae’r cerrig milltir hanesyddol hyn yn cael eu hadfywio i arwain ymgyrch RGC 1404 i fod yn rym newydd a phwerus yn y gêm gynrychioliadol.
Bydd y ddelwedd newydd yn cael ei lansio heddiw gyda manylion rhestr gemau RGC 1404 a gadarnhawyd, fydd yn dechrau ganol Ionawr 2010.
Mae deg gêm wedi’u cadarnhau ar gyfer y tîm, gan ddechrau ddydd Gwener 15 Ionawr pan fydd RGC 1404 yn chwarae yn erbyn Leicester Tigers Development XV yn eu cartref newydd ym Mharc Eirias, Bae Colwyn. Bydd gemau eraill hefyd yn cael eu hychwanegu at y rhestr bresennol.
Bydd baner draig euraidd y tîm yn hedfan uwchben y stadiwm yn ystod gêm gyntaf y tîm.
Dywedodd Pennaeth Perfformiad a Datblygiad Rygbi URC, Joe Lydon: “Rydym wrth ein bodd gyda’r ddelwedd newydd y gall y chwaraewyr, y cefnogwyr a’r swyddogion ei wisgo gyda balchder.
“Mae RGC 1404 yn cynrychioli’r ffocws i wella proffil a datblygiad rygbi ledled Gogledd Cymru ac mae’n rhoi cyfle i’r rhanbarth cyfan uno a chefnogi’r ffocws hwnnw.
“Mae pobl Gogledd Cymru eisoes wedi dangos eu bod yn awyddus i weld rygbi o’r safon uchaf, ac mae’r ddelwedd newydd hon yn profi ein bod yn dymuno cyflawni’r gobeithion a’r dyheadau hyn.
Dywedodd Prif Weithredwr Grŵp URC, Roger Lewis: ”Rygbi yw ein camp genedlaethol yma yng Nghymru ac mae’n briodol felly bod ein hamcanion ar gyfer y dyfodol yn cysylltu’n agos â’n hanes a’n treftadaeth oddi ar y cae hefyd.”
“Ymysg pethau eraill, mae ymrwymiad, teyrngarwch, ac anrhydedd i gyd yn bwysig mewn rygbi, ac mae’r rhain i gyd hefyd yn rhan o stori bywyd Owain Glyndŵr.
Dywedodd Prif Hyfforddwr RGC 1404, Clive Griffiths: “Mae gennym gemau cyffrous i ddechrau cyfnod newydd yn hanes rygbi Gogledd Cymru. Rydym wedi cael cydweithrediad ardderchog gan glybiau’r Prif Gynghrair yn Lloegr a gan glybiau a rhanbarthau Cymru. Bydd ansawdd y timau rydym yn chwarae yn eu herbyn yn rhoi her i’r chwaraewyr o ogledd a de Cymru, yn ogystal â’r chwaraewyr Canadaidd yn y sgwad, wrth iddynt chwarae yn erbyn chwaraewyr llawn amser a lled broffesiynol.
“Mae’n bwysig bod y chwaraewyr yn uno fel tîm. RGC 1404 yw enw a hunaniaeth newydd y tîm, a gyda chefnogaeth barhaus gan y cyhoedd yng Ngogledd Cymru, rwy’n siŵr y bydd yn tyfu blwyddyn ar ôl blwyddyn.”
Dywedodd cynrychiolydd Bwrdd y WRU yng Ngogledd Cymru, Peredur Jenkins: "Mae delwedd newydd tîm Gogledd Cymru - RGC 1404 – yn cyhoeddi dechrau cyfnod newydd ar gyfer rygbi yng Ngogledd Cymru – sy’n ddatblygiad cyffrous ac arloesol i rygbi Cymru.
"Ein nod yw rhoi cyfle i chwaraewyr ifanc a thalentog gogledd Cymru i ddatblygu eu potensial yn eu hardal eu hunain, a rhoi cyfle i bobl gogledd Cymru weld rygbi o safon uchel ar garreg eu drws.
"Rwy’n erfyn ar bawb, ledled gogledd Cymru i ddod i weld y gemau ym Mharc Eirias i gefnogi ein tîm."
Dywedodd Kenton Morgan, cadeirydd CIC Rygbi Gogledd Cymru: "Mae Gogledd Cymru wedi datblygu i fod yn fwy na thîm. Mae hefyd yn cynrychioli diwylliant rhanbarth gogledd Cymru. Comisiynwyd RGC 1404 i wneud y ddelwedd yn fwy hygyrch i gefnogwyr o bob rhan o’r rhanbarth, ond mae dyheadau Gogledd Cymru yn aros yr un fath – darparu rygbi o safon uchel i gefnogwyr a chwaraewyr yng ngogledd Cymru."
Mae tîm RGC 1404 eisoes wedi cyhoeddi mai cyn hyfforddwr amddiffyn Cymru, Clive Griffiths, yw eu Prif Hyfforddwr, ac wedi cyhoeddi y bydd deg chwaraewr rhyngwladol o Ganada yn cyrraedd fis nesaf i gryfhau safon gystadleuol y sgwad.
Mae’r cyswllt rhwng y WRU a rygbi Canada yn golygu y bydd y chwaraewyr o Ganada yn chwarae gyda’r tîm, ond wrth i’r strwythur Academi Genedlaethol yng Ngogledd Cymru ddatblygu yn raddol bydd y niferoedd yn lleihau wrth i ragor o chwaraewyr lleol ymuno â’r tîm.
Mae’r logo newydd ar gyfer RGC 1404 wedi’i gynllunio gan Worldspan o Abergele ar ôl iddo gael ei gomisiynu gan y WRU.
Heddiw gall RGC 1404 gadarnhau deg gêm ar gyfer y tymor sydd i ddod, a bydd pob gêm gartref yn cael eu chwarae ym Mharc Eirias.
Gemau RGC 1404 yn 2010:
Gwener 15 Ionawr v Leicester Tigers Development XV – Parc Eirias
Mercher 20 Ionawr v Antiassassins (Caer) – oddi cartref
Sadwrn 30 Ionawr v Crwydriaid Morgannwg – oddi cartref
2 / 3 Chwefror v Scarlets, Clwb Rygbi – Llanymddyfri
Mercher 17 Chwefror v Caerwrangon – Parc Eirias
Mercher 23 Chwefror v Sale Jets – Parc Eirias
Mercher 10 Mawrth v Leeds – Parc Eirias
Gwener 19 Mawrth v Prifysgol Rhydychen – Parc Eirias
Sadwrn 17 Ebrill v Cross Keys – Parc Eirias
23/24 Ebrill v Dreigiau – Parc Eirias
I gael rhagor o wybodaeth, cysylltwch â:
WRU: Liz Jones, Rheolwr Cyfathrebu. 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
ends
© 2010 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use Account Feedback
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)