Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
Indigo Premiership
Cardiff will kick off the defence of their Indigo Premiership title at the home of arch-rivals Pontypridd when the 2022-23 season kicks-off on 3 September.
Steve Law’s side pipped Newport to the top spot with four successive wins in April, including bonus-point triumphs over Pontypridd and Merthyr at the Arms Park, to end a point clear of the Premiership Cup winning Black & Ambers.
The two teams will play their return fixture in the Welsh capital on Boxing Day as one of five festive derby clashes. Among the changes for the new season are:
* A return to home and away matches for the 12 teams
* A return to play-off matches at the end of the season to determine the champions
* All play-off fixtures to be played at club grounds
* More financial investment to help with medical costs
* Prize money for the teams in the Play-Off final
“The derby games that will open the season will be a great start for the supporters. Then they will have the return legs to look forward to over Christmas,” said Premier Division Clubs and Ebbw Vale RFC chairman, Jon Jones.
“Everyone is delighted to see the return of the traditional league format after the disruption of COVID and the return of play-offs will add jeopardy and meaningful fixtures right to the end of the season.
“There have been some notable signings at many clubs that will add real quality to the league. Welsh internationals and seasoned regional players will be joined by a raft of top-quality signings from the Admiral Leagues with many young and talented players following the proven pathway that the Premiership provides.”
Play-offs were last used to determine the champions in the 2016-17 season when Merthyr triumphed 22-18 over Aberavon at the Talbot Athletic Ground. The first season the play-offs were introduced was 2009-10 when Neath beat Swansea 3-1 on try count after the game ended as a 22-22 draw at Cardiff Arms Park.
Pontypridd won four successive titles via the play-offs, while Ebbw Vale won the title at Sardis Road in the 2015-16 campaign.
PREMIERSHIP PLAY OFF FINALS
2009-10 – Neath 22 – 22 Swansea (Neath won 3-1 on try count)
2010-11 – Llanelli 24 – 18 Pontypridd
2011-12 – Pontypridd 15 – 13 Llanelli
2012-13 – Pontypridd 47 – 15 Llanelli
2013-14 – Pontypridd 38 – 17 Cross Keys
2014-15 – Pontypridd 28 – 14 Ebbw Vale
2015-16 – Ebbw Vale 38 – 12 Pontypridd
2016-17 – Merthyr 22 – 18 Aberavon
“Last season went right down to the wire and the 2022-23 campaign looks like being even more exciting with the return of a play-off system to determine the champions,” said WRU Community Rugby director, Geraint John.
“There was an appetite from the clubs, players, fans and broadcasters to see the play-offs return and there will be prize money for the two finalists as well as a home venue advantage for the top ranked team. The semi-finals will also be played at club grounds.
“The viewing figures for the Thursday night live and weekend matches grew over the course of the season and there was a general feel-good factor about the Premiership as Newport won the Cup and Cardiff took the league title.
“Even more importantly, the tournament as a whole was invaluable in giving the young, aspiring professionals at many of the regions a proper baptism in senior rugby. Mason Grady and Cameron Winnett played for both Cardiff RFC and the regional side last season before playing in the Wales U20 campaigns.
“The U20 outside half Dan Edwards had a full season at Aberavon, as did Ben Williams, while Iestyn Hopkins got game time at Swansea. Many other of the current Wales U20 squad in Italy were also involved in Premiership cup and league matches and there is a huge desire across the board to continue to raise standards.”
The new season will kick-off with a round of derby clashes. The champions, Cardiff head to Sardis Road to face Pontypridd, while cup winners Newport host Ebbw Vale. Carmarthen Quins will welcome Llandovery, Llanelli host Swansea in what will be the Whites’ 150th anniversary season and Aberavon will be seeking revenge over Bridgend at the Talbot Athletic Ground after losing to them in April.
“There is no doubt Sardis Road is going to be a tough place to kick-off the defence of our title, but at least we are back home for the return fixture on Boxing Day,” said Cardiff head coach, Steve Law.
“Our new model in conjunction with the regional side worked well for the club, and the players last season. We ticked most boxes in that we won the league and helped a number of players move through the ranks.
“We will have a highly competitive squad of semi-pro players to help support and nurture the academy stars at Cardiff Rugby next season and the goal will be to keep our hands on the title.”
Former Wales defence and Wales Women head coach Rowland Phillips has taken over from Dale McIntosh at Merthyr, while ex-Sale Sharks and Scarlets hooker Marc Jones will be the new man in charge of coaching at Carmarthen Quins. Ex-Ospreys and Cardiff Blues forwards coach Tom Smith has moved in at Bridgend and will be joined by ex-Wales international hooker Scott Baldwin.
There have been some significant summer signings with Wales’ caps Dan Baker and Tavis Knoyle stepping down from regional rugby to play in the Premiership. No 8 Baker is heading from the Dragons to Aberavon, while Knoyle is joining Josh Lewis in leaving Rodney Parade to join Merthyr.
The Ironmen have also recruited long-serving Ospreys lock Lloyd Ashley, while a third Welsh international, Adam Warren, is returning to his home club of Llandovery while RGC have been significantly boosted with the arrival of Wales U20 flanker Ethan Fackrell who is currently featuring for Byron Hayward’s side in Treviso in the U20 Six Nations Summer Series.
“Standards are rising, the quality of the matches is improving and the tournament is becoming increasingly competitive. The WRU is investing more money into the Premiership and the media profile is increasing,” added John.
“We continue to examine ways to make the Premiership an even better gateway to full-time professional rugby for the top young talent in Wales and will remain in constant dialogue with the clubs to find the best way to keep the tournament on an upward curve.”
“We are proud to be sponsoring the Premiership for another year. Being involved with rugby is an important part of our connection with Wales. We have an exciting year ahead of us in terms of growth and we are very privileged to carry the Premiership over the line with us,” said Indigo Group CEO Ian Cole-Wilkins.
WELSH PREMIERSHIP CHAMPIONS
– since regionalisation
2003–04 Newport 2013–14 Pontypridd
2004–05 Neath 2014–15 Pontypridd
2005–06 Neath 2015–16 Ebbw Vale
2006–07 Neath 2016–17 Merthyr
2007–08 Neath 2017–18 Merthyr
2008–09 Cardiff 2018–19 Merthyr
2009–10 Neath 2019-20 *Season Suspended
2010–11 Llanelli 2020-21 *Season Not Played
2011–12 Pontypridd 2021-22 Cardiff
2012–13 Pontypridd
WRU Indigo Group Premiership 2022-23
03/09/2022
Aberavon v Bridgend
Carmarthen Quins v Llandovery
Llanelli v Swansea
Merthyr v RGC1404
Newport v Ebbw Vale
Pontypridd v Cardiff
10/09/2022
Bridgend v Carmarthen Quins
Cardiff v Merthyr
Ebbw Vale v Llanelli
Llandovery v Pontypridd
RGC1404 v Newport
Swansea v Aberavon
24/09/2022
Aberavon v Llanelli
Carmarthen Quins v Swansea
Ebbw Vale v RGC1404
Merthyr v Llandovery
Newport v Cardiff
Pontypridd v Bridgend
01/10/2022
Llanelli v RGC1404
Aberavon v Carmarthen Quins
Bridgend v Merthyr
Cardiff v Ebbw Vale
Llandovery v Newport
Swansea v Pontypridd
08/10/2022
Carmarthen Quins v Llanelli
Ebbw Vale v Llandovery
Merthyr v Swansea
Newport v Bridgend
Pontypridd v Aberavon
RGC1404 v Cardiff
15/10/2022
Aberavon v Merthyr
Bridgend v Ebbw Vale
Carmarthen Quins v Pontypridd
Llandovery v RGC1404
Llanelli v Cardiff
Swansea v Newport
29/10/2022
Cardiff v Llandovery
Ebbw Vale v Swansea
Merthyr v Carmarthen Quins
Newport v Aberavon
Pontypridd v Llanelli
RGC1404 v Bridgend
12/11/2022
Aberavon v Ebbw Vale
Bridgend v Cardiff
Carmarthen Quins v Newport
Llanelli v Llandovery
Pontypridd v Merthyr
Swansea v RGC1404
18/11/2022
Cardiff v Swansea
Ebbw Vale v Carmarthen Quins
Llandovery v Bridgend
Merthyr v Llanelli
Newport v Pontypridd
RGC1404 v Aberavon
10/12/2022
Aberavon v Cardiff
Carmarthen Quins v RGC1404
Llanelli v Bridgend
Merthyr v Newport
Pontypridd v Ebbw Vale
Swansea v Llandovery
17/12/2022
Bridgend v Swansea
Cardiff v Carmarthen Quins
Ebbw Vale v Merthyr
Llandovery v Aberavon
Newport v Llanelli
RGC1404 v Pontypridd
26/12/2022
Bridgend v Aberavon
Cardiff v Pontypridd
Ebbw Vale v Newport
Llandovery v Carmarthen Quins
RGC1404 v Merthyr
Swansea v Llanelli
07/01/2023
Aberavon v Swansea
Carmarthen Quins v Bridgend
Llanelli v Ebbw Vale
Merthyr v Cardiff
Newport v RGC1404
Pontypridd v Llandovery
14/01/2023
Bridgend v Pontypridd
Cardiff v Newport
Llandovery v Merthyr
Llanelli v Aberavon
RGC1404 v Ebbw Vale
Swansea v Carmarthen Quins
21/01/2023
Carmarthen Quins v Aberavon
Ebbw Vale v Cardiff
Merthyr v Bridgend
Newport v Llandovery
Pontypridd v Swansea
RGC1404 v Llanelli
28/01/2023
Aberavon v Pontypridd
Bridgend v Newport
Cardiff v RGC1404
Llandovery v Ebbw Vale
Llanelli v Carmarthen Quins
Swansea v Merthyr
18/02/2023
Cardiff v Llanelli
Ebbw Vale v Bridgend
Merthyr v Aberavon
Newport v Swansea
Pontypridd v Carmarthen Quins
RGC1404 v Llandovery
04/03/2023
Aberavon v Newport
Bridgend v RGC1404
Carmarthen Quins v Merthyr
Llandovery v Cardiff
Llanelli v Pontypridd
Swansea v Ebbw Vale
25/03/2023
Cardiff v Bridgend
Ebbw Vale v Aberavon
Llandovery v Llanelli
Merthyr v Pontypridd
Newport v Carmarthen Quins
RGC1404 v Swansea
01/04/2023
Aberavon v RGC1404
Bridgend v Llandovery
Carmarthen Quins v Ebbw Vale
Llanelli v Merthyr
Pontypridd v Newport
Swansea v Cardiff
08/04/2023
Bridgend v Llanelli
Cardiff v Aberavon
Ebbw Vale v Pontypridd
Llandovery v Swansea
Newport v Merthyr
RGC1404 v Carmarthen Quins
15/04/2022
Llanelli v Newport
Merthyr v Ebbw Vale
Aberavon v Llandovery
Pontypridd v RGC 1404
Carmarthen Quins v Cardiff
Swansea v Bridgend
Player DeparturesEbbw Vale RFC can now confirm that former International Wing Dafydd Howells will be stepping down from Prem Rugby to return to play for this local club Abercrave RFC after a chance of job that involves a 12 hour 4 on and 4 off shift pattern would severely limit his availability to train and play. Having signed a contract prior to the end of season both player and club are disappointed with the outcome but are in full agreement that this is the right decision for player and club. Chairman Jon Jones commented that Dafydd is making the right decision for his career and family like and we wish him well, he has been a pleasure to work with and will always have a warm welcome at Ebbw Vale, Dafydd has said> ‘Having started a new job recently I have found it hard to commit the time I need to perform at this level. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Ebbw, the direction the club are pushing with new players and coaches is exciting and I really look forward to seeing them achieve great things this year. Thank you to everyone involved for being so supportive last season and good luck for the season ahead’Ethan Doyle
In a further departure from the club back row forward Ethan Doyle who was one of the standout players in a tough year for the Steelmen whether in the back row or second row is returning to former club Old Rednesians which is close to Ethan’s Bristol home. Ethan, affectionately known as Oggie travels extensively with his work and can no longer give the time commitment that playing in Wales means for him. A firm favourite of the Ebbw Addicts, winning Supporters Player of the Year he will be missed and the club wishes him every success in his playing and work career
Nine Ten Sports Multi Sports Camps @ Ebbw Vale RFC
Nine Ten Sports are pleased to bring multi skills sports camps to the CiNER Glass Community Stadium Ebbw Vale RFC this summer.
Join our team, with decades of professional sports knowledge, to improve your skills, have fun and learn like a pro.
July
Ebbw Vale RFC sports camp booking 25th – 29th July
https://www.ninetensports.com/store-2-2/p/ebbw-vale-rfc-sports-camp-booking-25th-29th-july
August
Ebbw Vale RFC sports camp booking 22nd – 26th August
https://www.ninetensports.com/store-2-2/p/qbuvek6x0o9chswhfost8k0vj8svgl
For more information please visit www.ninetensports.com
Pre Season Fixtures
Ebbw Vale RFC is pleased to announce the following pre season friendlies that will see the club visit old friends and familiar grounds after a few years of absence
Saturday August 13th 2.30pm v Neath at the GnollSaturday August 20th At Clifton RFC at 2.30 , this will be consist of 40 mins v Clifton and 40 mins v Tonbridge Thursday August 25th v Cross Keys RFC at 7.15pm at Pandy Park
Ebbw Vale Youth Pre-season
An Invite to start your Pathway to Premiership
For any 16-18 year old players willing to become part of a Premiership club, pre-season training will start on Monday July 4th.
Prior to the start of training there will be a ‘Meet the Club’ evening on Thursday 30th June at The Ciner Glass Community Stadium, Eugene Cross Park.
On the evening you will meet and chat with the highly experienced and knowledgeable youth team coaches and management, who will talk about the opportunities with Ebbw Vale RFC, the coaching methods and off field support, the history of the club, its culture and how you can be the next part of it!
The evening will also provide:
- A tour of the clubhouse
- A visit to the main ground changing rooms , including the in house gym
- An opportunity to try on next seasons kit
- Meet senior squad players
Places are limited! So for further information and to book your place please contact a member of the Management team:
Mathew Williams, Head Coach – 07535 516276
Richard Brown, Assistant Coach – 07972 740388
Phil Seward, Assistant Coach – 07919 403505
Damien Jenkins, Team Management Support – 07713 325093
John Prendergast, Team Management Support – 07842 410710
Andy Wallace, Team Management Support – 07749 850960
Alun Harries, Head of Development – 07932 024408
FEEL THE STEEL
Ebbw Vale RFC Sign Scimitar Kit Deal
We are delighted to announce a new five-year kit partnership with Scimitar Sportswear, which will begin ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Ebbw Vale are the second Welsh Premiership side to partner with Scimitar, after Carmarthenshire outfit Llandovery RFC signed a new deal in 2021.
The 2015/16 Premiership champions have signed a deal which will see Scimitar provide sustainable teamwear, sportswear and leisure options.
The Monmouthshire side, who play at 7000-capacity Eugene Cross Park, have produced notable players over the years including British & Irish Lions Denzil Williams, Arthur Lewis and Dan Lydiate, as well as the current Canada National Team Coach, Kingsley Jones.
Ebbw Vale Chairman Jon Jones said: “Scimitar are leading the way when it comes to custom sportswear and the quality of the kit is fantastic which I know the players and staff will be excited to wear.
“The fact Scimitar prioritise sustainability is important to us and where possible, we will look to go down this route as we as a club also recognise the importance of recycling.
“We’re very much looking forward to next season and know that we are in very capable hands with Scimitar to help us meet our kit and merchandise needs for all of our teams, from 7-year-olds to senior rugby, alongside an excellent package of accessories that compliments the kit offering superbly.”
Scimitar Director Jon Rew said: “We’re thrilled to be able to support another fantastic Welsh Premiership side and we’re very excited to be able to soon launch the new playing XV shirt for the 2022/23 season.”
For all the latest from news, results and fixtures from Ebbw Vale RFC, click here.
To enquire about sportswear or merchandise for your club, email info@scimitarsports.com.
Social Media: @evrfc @ScimitarCustom
Ebbw Vale are delighted to announce the signing of Rhys Francis back to the club after a lengthy lay off. Rhys will add experience to the Steelmen front row and can’t wait to start pre season and get stuck in once again.
Height – 6”2
Weight – 106kg
Position – Hooker
Honours – Dragons U20’s, Dragons Academy
Past clubs – Ebbw Vale RFC, UWIC RFC
Rhys had to say;
“ I am really excited to get back playing after injury and help Ebbw Vale in it’s rebuild process. The club has been a massive part of my rugby career since signing here back in 2014 with Jason and Duane. Especially looking forward to hearing and seeing the addicts on the bank on a Saturday afternoon!”
Ebbw Vale are delighted to announce the signing of experienced tight head prop Adam Court for the 2022/23 season.
Adam had the following to say on joining the Steelmen
It’s a great opportunity for me at a big club like Ebbw vale. I am looking forward to a hard pre season and then getting stuck into the season ahead.
Clubs: Pontyclun RFC, Beddau RFC, Cardiff RFC and Bridgend RFC
Stats: 6ft
Weight: 125kg
Age: 29
Position: Tight head
Ebbw Vale RFC is excited to welcome Haydn to the steelmen for the coming season. Haydn will offer an attacking option at 10 or 15 as well as being an accomplished goal kicker and add further strength in depth to the squad that is being built.
Hayden’s Highlights https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=uaXmxrtQADk&feature=youtu.be
Haydn commented.
Having played against Ebbw Vale on numerous occasions I’ve experienced the great atmosphere that the Ebbw Vale fans create. After talking to Jason about the club’s ambitions it was an easy decision to make. I’m excited for a new challenge and can’t wait to start playing in front of the Ebbw fans.
Height: 6ft
Weight: 86kg
Position: Outside half / full back
Clubs: Newport RFC, Croesyceiliog RFC
Ebbw Vale RFC are excited to announce the signing of exciting back Ryan Davies from Gwernyfed RFC.
Ryan is an exciting talent with plenty of pace who can cover wing of fullback. When we played Cardiff away this year Ryan was at the heart of the Cardiff attack and showed plenty of pace on the wing.
Ryan commented on signing for Ebbw Vale,
I am really excited for the season ahead with Ebbw Vale. I’m looking forward to getting stuck into preseason and then get a good start to the league. It will be nice to see some new faces and have a fresh squad and can’t wait to see how the new coaches will develop my game more.
Highlights https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTDc_ti3uU0
Ryan Davies
Height-5’11
Weight-82kg
Position-fullback/wing
Clubs represented
Gwernyfed RFC (home club), Cardiff Blues u16s, Cardiff RFC, Llandovery RFC.
Honours-going from playing division 4 rugby one weekend to making my debut for Cardiff RFC in the Indigo Premiership the weekend after.
We are delighted to announce the signing of Dragons outside half Evan Lloyd who will join the steelmen for the 2022/23 season. Evan is an exciting outside half who has featured regularly for the steelmen in the 21/22 season in the Welsh Premiership. Evan played 10 times last season for the steelmen, racking up a total of 7 conversions, 11 pens a total of 74 points including one try
Evan commented
I really enjoyed the back end of the season with Ebbw Vale playing some regular rugby. I am now looking forward to a new challenge and working with the new coaching team, I want to enjoy my time at this great club and help develop an exciting brand of winning rugby.
Highlights here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmHm9fzTz7o
Age: 22
Date of birth: 6th February 2000
Height: 185cm / 6′ 0”
Weight: 90kg / 14st 2lbs
Honours: Dragons Champions cup, URC, Wales U18/U19’s
Previous Clubs: Blackwood mini & juniors, Dragons Rugby
We are delighted to announce the signing of Ryan Gardner for the 2022/23 season, Ryan joins us from Newport RFC and will add an extra attacking option to the Ebbw Vale backline. In his previous playing sting at the Steelmen, Ryan was the winner of the Premiership Try of the Season award and also tasted cup success at the National Stadium during his time at Brynmawr RFC
Ryan said on signing for the steelmen.
“After spending some time away from Ebbw Vale playing for Brynmawr & Newport RFC, I am excited to be back playing for my local premiership club & look forward to seeing what next season brings to Ebbw Vale”
Height: 5’11
Weight: 92kg
Position: Wing
Clubs represented: Ebbw Vale RFC, Brynmawr RFC, Newport RFC
We are excited to welcome top young prospect Curtis Gregory to Ebbw Vale RFC. Curtis has experience in playing in the Welsh Championship and is keen to work with the coaching staff at the club to develop his game and help Ebbw challenge for honours in 22/23. Curtis joins a club where he has strong fiends and family connections, with school team mates, Ethan Philips, Dawid Rubasniak and Joel Harries members of the Steelmen squad. His father Mark has also played for the club with younger brother Max having developed through the Mini and Junior section and will be a prt of the Steelmen Youth Squad in 2022/23
Curtis had to say on his signing.
My ambition has always been to play Premiership rugby and I was over the moon when Ebbw Vale offered me the opportunity to play for my local club. I have worked with Jason in the past and he is a coach who I have looked up to and am looking forward to being coached by again. I look forward to the challenges ahead and playing in front of the Ebbw supporters
Height: 6ft 4
Weight: 17st
Honours: 3 x championship winner
Jordan Davies becomes a steelmanWe are delighted to announce that Jordan Davies will be joining the steelmen for the 22/23 season. A local abrasive forward who is keen to learn and develop his game further.Jordan commented on his move to the Ciner Glass stadium.It’s a big move in my career and I can’t wait to get stuck into an exciting challenge when pre-season starts in July.Height : 6ft 7weight : 124kgPosition: Second RowClubs represented: Hafodyrynys, Abertillery and Croesyceiliog
Steelmen Youth Management Team Completed
Ebbw Vale RFC have now completed the management team for the youth and development teams at the club with the recruitment of ex Newbridge & Cardiff centre Richard Brown. Richard will assist Head Coach Mathew Williams with the coaching of the youth & development teams at The Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
Richard has a proven record in developing young players having coached representative age grade rugby and had successful periods with both Newbridge & Crumlin youth
On accepting his new coaching position, Richard commented, ‘I’m hugely excited to be involved and to start to contribute the development of future star Steelmen and looking forward to working with some great rugby people at Ebbw Vale’.
Head of Player & Coach Development, Alun Harries, added, ‘Richard’s appointment is the final piece in a quality management team for the youth & development section of the club. He has the detailed and critical approach to his coaching that the young players will thrive off and will be a great compliment to Chunky’
The full Youth & Development Management Team:
Head Coach: Mathew Williams
Assistant Coaches: Richard Brown & Phil Seward
Support Management: Damien Jenkins, John Prendergast & Andy Wallace
Welcome Andrew Mann
We are delighted to announce that 6ft 3 second row forward Andrew Mann is returning to Ebbw Vale for the 22/23 season. Andrew has a wealth of experience in the Welsh Premiership and is looking forward to playing in front of the Ebbw Addicts
Andrew had this to say on joining Ebbw Vale;
After spending the last 5 seasons away with Newport RFC, I have looked to play closer to home as I have work/family commitments to fulfil with a newborn on the way, really excited to see what the future holds with Ebbw as they’re a very close bunch and play with a lot of heart, looking forward to pulling on the jersey at Eugene and play in front of a very loud crowd 🙂
Height:6ft 3”(190.5cm)
Weight: 16st 101kg
Pos: Second Row
Honours: Winning the premiership cup with Newport RFC, Coaches Player of the year for Newport 19/20 season.
Clubs: Brynmawr, Blaenavon, Ebbw vale RFC, Newport RFC.
Ebbw Vale RFC is currently looking for a physiotherapist/sports therapist/sports rehab practitioner / osteopath / chiropractor for the upcoming season. The role will start at the beginning of July and you will be available for training & games during the season. Rugby / sport experience desirable
A pitch side trauma qualification is a must and the renumeration for the position will be based on your experience and discussed with the club at your interview.
Roles:
– Assisting with up keep of the WRU minimum standards criteria
– Managing player injuries, including creating a clinical impression and rehabilitation programmes
– Joint working with club physio, coaches and additional back room staff
– Pitch side cover at games
If you feel you have the correct experience and qualifications then please send your CV ASAP to Saran Wyburn on swyburn09@gmail.com
McDonough signs for the steelmen
Addicts favourite Carrick McDonough has signed for the steelmen for the 22/23 season from the Dragons. The former sprinter and Wales u20s wing is looking forward to getting stuck into pre-season with the boys and learning of Jason and the other coaches to develop his game. Carrick will also continue to work with Wales 7’s in the coming season
Carrick said.
I’m very excited to sign for Ebbw Vale this coming season, the club is rebuilding, and I know the 22/23 season is going to be a promising one, the new coaching staff are adding new things to the club and the new boys coming in will make a difference.
Height : 181cm
Weight : 88kg
Honours : Wales 18s, Wales 20s and Wales 7s
Clubs represented: Ebbw Vale, Cross Keys and Bridgend
Jordan Pritchard signs for the Steelmen
We are delighted to announce the signing of experienced tight head prop Jordan Pritchard for the 2022/23 season.
Hailing from Ferndale, Jordan first started his rugby with Rhondda Schools under 15’s, advancing on to the Blues Under 16s, and Ospreys Under 18’s. Jordan has also represented Swansea RFC, Pontypridd and Treorchy RFC as well as Ospreys A.
Speaking to Jordan on signing for Ebbw Vale he said, I am looking forward to new challenges at Ebbw and progressing as a player and can’t wait to start with the squad for pre season.
Height 6ft
Weight 123kg
Position Tight Head Prop
Honours
Rhondda U15s
Cardiff Blues U16s
Boys Club of Wales U16s
Ospreys U18s
Ospreys A
Bridgend College, Treorchy RFC, Pontypridd RFC, Swansea RFC
We are delighted to announce the signing of exciting young full back Morgan Richards. Morgan has represented Wales at U20’s level as well as the Dragons and most recently Pontypridd RFC in the Welsh Premiership.
On signing for Ebbw Vale, Morgan had the following to say;
The project at Ebbw Vale for next season is something that has really excited me. It is something I want to be apart of, there will be a lot of new faces in the squad so let’s hope we can hit the ground running. I can’t wait to get started.
Morgan Richards
Height – 6ft
Weight – 91kg
Position – Full Back, Wing
Honours – Wales 16’s, Wales 18’s, Wales 20’s, Dragons.
Clubs Represented – Caldicot RFC (home club), Dragons 16’s, Dragons 18’s, Dragons Celtic Cup, Pontypridd.
Morgan’s Video Highlights https://youtu.be/CLLnsoCwg10
Dan Haymond Appointed Team Manager
After announcing his recent retirement Dan Haymond has accepted the vacant position of Team Manager at the Steelman and will be supported by the long serving Team Administrator Doug Taylor.
Dan had 210 caps for the Steelmen that included 4 title winning seasons, 2 cup semi finals, A fierce competitor and player who always gave 100% every time he pulled on the Steelmen jersey
This completes the off field set up and Chairman Jon Jones had this to say about the appointment of Dan,
When Dan discussed his retirement with Jason and myself, both of us agreed that we wanted to keep Dan involved at the club and the vacant Team Manager’s role was an ideal opportunity. Dan epitomises what has been good about the club over the last 10 years, pride in the badge, skill, heart and honesty. Good people create good environments and we are confident that Dan will continue to play a major part in driving a culture of hard work leading to success
Dan commented;
Obviously when I new it was time to hang my boots up it wasn’t a decision I wanted to make, so when Jason told me he still wanted me involved with the club and offered me the team manager’s role it was a no brainer for me.
It will be a strange feeling and it is going to take a bit of time for me to get used to the role but I will give it 100% and do my best for the boys and club. I am hoping having played under Jason for so long and played along side the boys that I can be a good link between the both and can’t wait to get stuck in.
Coaching Team Announcement
Chairman Jon Jones is delighted to announce that the coaching Team appointed in December 2021 will lead the Steelmen into the 2022/23 season having steadied the ship and gained 3 wins in what was a tough and disappointing 2021/22 season
Head Coach Jason Strange will once again be backed up by Forwards Coach Geraint Lewis, Backs Coach Steve Lang, S&C Coach Nicky Strange and Aaron Coundley will continue as scrum coach.
All retained players have left with training plans for the summer prior to recommencement of pre season training at the beginning of July
Jason said;
“Last season gave the coaches an opportunity to look at the squad and the clubs position both on and off the field. It became obvious that it was a big rebuilding job with changes needed. There’s a lot to turnaround which isn’t going to happen overnight but next season’s squad will be increased, improved and stronger.
Its now important we look towards the future by recruiting the right type of characters, working hard in pre season and getting everyone going in the same direction towards a clear goal.
Ebbw Vale RFC YouthAssistant CoachFollowing the appointment of club stalwart Mathew Williams as Head Coach for the youth team at Ebbw Vale, the club are now recruiting an Assistant Coach to work with Mathew and the youth team and aid the clubs Pathway to Premiership programme.As Assistant Coach you will also work with the senior squad coaches for preparation of the club’s Development XV fixturesDuties will include:– Responsibility for backline play– Assist the Head Coach in team tactics and playing strategy– Enhance player’s core skills– Attend and deliver on youth team and development XV sessions– Attend youth and development XV matchesThis role will suit an enthusiastic and ambitious coach who wishes to be part of a Premiership club coaching environment, ideally WRU (or other recognised union) Level 2 qualified, or at least be willing to work towards that qualificationFor more details or to express an interest please contact:Alun HarriesHead of Player & Coach DevelopmentM: 07932 024408E: harries.1@btinternet.com
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that the following backs will remain with the Steelmen for the season 2022/23.Scrum Half – Jon Evans, Matthew FlannaganCentres – Dom Franchi, Ethan Phillips, Paul KingWing – Jordan ThomasNew signings to follow early next week
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that the following Forwards have been retained for the 2022/23 season. With the coaching group maintaining an experienced core of players plus young forwards who joined during the season who quickly became Addicts favouritesLoose Head Prop’s – Luke Garrett, Joel Harries, Lewis KinsellaHookers – Joe Franchi, Harry Bee, Mickhal BlakeTight Head – Dave WhitingSecond Row – Lance Randall Back Row – Lewis Young, Alex Howes, Joe Thomas, Dawid Rubasniak
