Author Archives: Gareth Howells

Ebbw Vale RFC is delighted to announce a new commercial partnership with Vitapulse Health. The Vitapulse Health logo will feature proudly on the Ebbw Vale match shirts. We thank Vitapulse for their support of the Steelmen for the coming season and cannot wait to work with you on a number of exciting activities.

Vitapulse Health are delighted to be supporting and partnering with EVRFC for the coming season.  

We are a Blaenau Gwent based company offering home-based sleep, heart and lung function screening and diagnostic services for those seeking answers to their questions and concerns without delay.  Our products and services are easy to use in the privacy of your own home and our thorough diagnostic reports provide thorough analysis and treatment recommendations. 

So whether you think you already have sleep, heart or lung function problems or would just like peace of mind, please contact our customer care team on 02922 700700 or email contact@vitapulsehealth.com to discuss your concerns.  

More information can be found on our website www.vitapulsehealth.com

CiNER Glass UK announced as the main official sponsor of Ebbw Vale Rugby Club 

CiNER Glass UK has today re-affirmed its commitment to the future of Ebbw Vale Rugby Club after the company agreed to become the club’s official main sponsor. 

The glass manufacturing company has agreed a new three-year deal with Ebbw Vale RFC to become the Premiership rugby club’s official sponsor. 

The new agreement follows a very successful first year, after last year, the company agreed to sponsor the men’s first team and junior academy, as well as entering into a stadium rights deal which saw the stadium renamed the Ciner Glass Community Stadium that will continue to be included in the new agreement.

However, the new agreement will see CiNER Glass become the main sponsor on the front of the club’s famous green, red and white jersey for the next three years for both the first team and across all other age groups. The deal will also see CiNER significantly increase its annual investment into the club’s first team, junior academy, and the rugby stadium itself to help the next generation of Ebbw Vale rugby stars and the future prosperity of the club. 

The announcement re-affirms CiNER Glass’ commitment to the local community after the company received planning permission last month to build and operate a £390m glass manufacturing plant at the Rassau Industrial Estate.

Speaking about the new agreement, Mrs Ciner said: “I want to thank the Chairman, players, staff, and most of all the fans for welcoming us into the local community over the last year and allowing us to become a small part of this historic club. We have had a fantastic first year sponsoring Ebbw Vale Rugby Club and feel very proud to become the main sponsors. We look forward to what will hopefully be a very successful period both on and off the field and hope our partnership can help contribute towards the clubs’ goals.”

Chairman of Ebbw Vale Rugby Club, Jonathan Jones commented: ‘‘I want to thank CiNER Glass for their continued commitment to the club. Our partnership with CiNER Glass came at a time of real significance and helped the club navigate one of the most challenging periods in our 142-year history following the pandemic.  I am delighted that it will continue as we look forward to investing in the future of the club and creating many more fantastic memories with our supporters.”

Attached is a photo of Executive Director of CiNER Glass, Mrs Didem CiNER with members of the Ebbw Vale RFC senior and junior team

Coleg Gwent Extend Sponsorship

We are delighted to announce that Coleg Gwent will once again continue their fantastic support of the Steelmen for the 2022/23 Indigo Welsh Premiership season. We have a number of age groups within the club from U7’s right the way through to U16s, Youth and then seniors, we feel strongly that education is an important part of the development pathway and always encourage our younger players to do well in education, Coleg Gwent can offer fantastic learning opportunities and we suggest checking out the range of courses here https://www.coleggwent.ac.uk/ 

Coleg Gwent are proud to continue sponsoring Ebbw Vale RFC for the 2022-23 season, sharing a passion for promoting participation and inclusion in sport in the local community. As one of Wales’ top performing colleges, Coleg Gwent has consistently high A Level pass rates and is ranked as the joint top performing college for vocational learning in Wales.

Enabling learners to combine their academic studies with improving their skills on the pitch, the college is home to the Coleg Gwent Dragons Junior Rugby Academy (the WRU Welsh Colleges and School Champions for 2019-20) and the first Girls Rugby Academy in Wales (winners of the Urdd WRU Welsh 7s and National Welsh Schools and Colleges Champions for 2021-22). Coleg Gwent takes pride in its learners continued sporting successes, alongside promoting inclusion and access to sport and education in the local area to improve the wellbeing of young people in the community.

Ebbw Vale RFC is located close to Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone, but with five campuses across Gwent (Usk, Ebbw Vale, Crosskeys, Newport and Cwmbran), studying full time, part time and university level qualifications on your doorstep couldn’t be easier. The Coleg Gwent community spans all age-groups, from school-leavers to mature-learners, and with a range of sports-related courses and a variety of other subject areas to explore, there’s something for everyone at the friendly, inclusive, and diverse college.

Coleg Gwent is looking forward to continuing this partnership with Ebbw Vale RFC for another exciting rugby season.

Zorba Foods Back The Steelmen Once Again

We are delighted to announce the continued support of Zorba Delicacies, Zorba Delicacies are a large local business who have supported the club over the last few seasons. We would like to thank the directors for agreeing to sponsor us once again for the 2022/23 season and their continued support of the towns premier rugby side.

https://zorbafoods.co.uk/about/ 

Ebbw Vale RFC ‘Seal’ The Deal

We are delighted to announce that BJ Seals Ltd have become a commercial partner of the Steelmen for the 2022/23 season and will feature on the Ebbw Vale RFC match strip. By being on the match strip of the steelmen this will give them brand presence at fixtures both home and away, worn by the passionate Ebbw Vale supporters and coverage on S4C Wales when we feature Live.

We thank Nicholas Jones, Director of BJ Seals Ltd for their support of the club and cannot wait for you to join us for a fixture at the CiNER Glass community stadium, Ebbw Vale.

BJ Seals Ltd. based on the Rassau Industrial Estate supplies components into the Automotive, Agricultural, Industrial and Construction sectors. Having been based in Ebbw Vale for five years now, we are extremely pleased to have the opportunity of sponsoring Ebbw Vale RFC and continue the success of the Welsh Premiership and also the local rugby community.

Our company was formed in 1998 by Brian Jones, our Managing Director, following many years of experience working in the sealing manufacturing industry. Our main strength as a company is being able to develop almost any type of component, whether it be for an industrial use, automotive use or any other sector. The BJ Seals Ltd. products are supplied throughout the world and the company brand has become highly respected in the markets that we operate in, both genuine and aftermarket supply. Business partners now include Jaguar Land Rover, FAI Automotive, Britpart, Rover and many other well know and established organisations.

Having previously been based in Merthyr Tydfil for over 15 years BJ Seals Ltd. has always had strong links to the South Wales area. We are now extremely proud to be working with Sears Seating, again a very well know and established company, also based around the corner from us on the Rassau Industrial Estate. Whilst maybe not quite being within throwing distance, we also have great relationships with local companies Foundry 4×4, Mayphil UK, Flamgard Engineering, Bearmach 4×4 and South Wales Propshafts. Our hope is that the recent developments in Rassau will continue, allowing the zone to become a thriving and energetic part of the community and that the enhancements of the local public transport links are continued.

The past few years have been difficult for us all and also for businesses of all types. We would like to extend our gratitude to the NHS, key workers and in particular our hard working staff, who have continued fully throughout the pandemic. 

We have always been very close supporters of all grades of Welsh rugby and it is a pleasure to be able to add something to such a league as the Welsh Premiership. It’s such an important league for the development of players and coaches, whilst also providing the competitive games that all followers look for. Ebbw Vale RFC holds such a prestigious place in Welsh rugby and continues to be one of the leading clubs and of course one of the most well supported. We know full well the pride that the supporters take in following the Steelmen and Eugene Cross Park holds many memories from over the years. Having seen such a large number of famous international players wearing the jersey, it is great to see the club continue to develop players that progress on to further honours in the game. No doubt that without such proud, well supported and ambitious teams as Ebbw Vale, Welsh rugby would not have seen the success that is has done over the past decade and more.

It is an honour for us to be linked with such a club and we would like to wish all at Ebbw Vale RFC the best for the upcoming season and hope that it is successful for everyone involved. 

http://www.bjsparts.com

Ebbw Vale RFC Welcome Carl’s Heating Services to the Steelmen family

Carl’s heating services is a passionate local business who are keen to support Ebbw Vale RFC and will feature on the clubs match kit. It has been delightful to work with Carl Davies to put this deal together, we are a club with commercial support from International, National and local businesses! It shows we have a package to suit all budgets and needs. We now ask our supporters to show that support back and if you need any work done then to contact Carl and give something back.

Carl Davies said;

I have sponsored Ebbw Vale rugby as I am a local man and local business and over the years followed my local rugby side and enjoyed many of great local derby’s and seen Ebbw Vale rugby  be very successful at top level rugby, so I wanted to offer support and sponsor the Steelmen.

Carl’s Heating Services

Tel: 07931 096157

Email: carlsheatingservices@gmail.com

Web: www.carlsheatingservices.co.uk

All Domestic Gas Work Carried out on Natural Gas & LPG

Landlord Safety Certificates, Boiler or Cooker Installations, Boiler Services

Ebbw Vale RFC is delighted to announce a new commercial partnership with AB Group Packaging who are a multinational company with manufacturing plants located in Spain, Ireland and Ebbw Vale.

We are excited to be working with AB Group Packaging and cannot wait to put some exciting activations together showcasing some of the products the AB Group produce.

AB Group Packaging is currently recruiting and are keen to hear from you if you are looking for work or a change in career. We would like to thank them for their support of Ebbw Vale for the 2022/23 season and look forward to hosting you at a fixture.

“AB Group Packaging is proud to sponsor Ebbw Vale RFC.  We are known as the innovator and manufacturer of choice for highly prized sustainable paper bags and packaging such as The Reusable Paper Bag, RePapaPac® .

We truly value and encourage a healthy work life balance for our staff.  We experience the many positives that participation in sport of all kinds physically and recreationally as our staff bring these benefits to our work in their attitudes of mind and heart. Partnering with Ebbw Vale RFC gives us the opportunity to support our local community club where staff & families have close ties.

In a spirit of partnership, we encourage players and supporters of Ebbw Vale RFC to consider a CAREER with us at AB Group Packaging:

Contact David at abgpcareers@abgrouppackaging.com – www.abgrouppackaging.com –

We look forward to some great times ahead together!”

The club is saddened to hear the sudden passing of Graham ‘Bunner’ Jones 

“Suddenly on Friday 1st July after battling with a short illness, Graham ‘Bunner’ Jones passed away.

A forward capped 3 times for Wales in 1963 whilst playing for Ebbw Vale, and scorer of the fastest try in an international by a Welsh forward. He played in over 150 consecutive games for Ebbw Vale during the early 60s.

He played and Captained Cwmbran RFC first team before coaching the youth side for a number of years. He became Chairman of the club on 2 separate occasions.

He was also a selector for Monmouthshire County RFC.

A larger than life character who will be remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him.

Rest In Peace”

Morgan Thomas Signs

23 year old second row, Morgan Thomas joins the club from Dowlais RFC where he has been coached by former Steelman Captain Kristian Owen. Morgan has a strong rugby pedigree with his father and two uncles having represented Merthyr RFC over many season. Standing at 6ft 5” and 115kg with the ability to play 15 man rugby that the Steelmen will be playing this season he will be one to keep an eye on this season.

On signing for Ebbw Vale Morgan said; “It’s been a pleasure to join Ebbw Vale and I can’t wait to get stuck into pre season training.

Height: 6ft 5

Weight: 115kg

Position: Second Row

Previous Club: Dowlais RFC

Harry Drane signs for the Steelmen

Harry Drane joins Ebbw Vale from Rumney Cardiff where he played his rugby at tight head.

On signing for Ebbw Vale Harry said; “It’s a great opportunity for me at a club like Ebbw Vale. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and starting pre season. 

Height: 6ft 2

Weight: 125kg

Position: Tight head Prop

Previous Clubs: Rumney Cardiff & Llanrumney 

Chad Thomas signs for the Steelmen, Chad is 20 years old and won all Player of the Year awards at Bedlinog RFC last season in his first season of senior rugby. Chad can play, second row, blindside or number 8.

On joining Ebbw Chad said; “ I am really looking forward to joining Ebbw Vale this coming season and the opportunity to work with Jason and the coaching team. The squad and environment Jason is looking to build really excites me, I can’t wait to get stuck in when pre season starts and meet the squad’ 

Age: 20

Height: 190cm

Weight: 114kg

Position: Second Row, Blindside, Number 8

Previous Clubs: Bedlinog and Dowlais Youth

Ebbw Vale RFC is delighted to announce the signing of Amir Walji who joins us from Llanelli RFC. Amir has a wealth of experience playing in the Welsh Premiership and will add size and pace to the Steelmen backline and can feature at centre or on the wing.

On joining Ebbw Amir said; “I’m over the moon to be joining a big club like Ebbw Vale. I’m looking forward to getting stuck into pre season and excited to be a part of the rebuild.”

Amir’s Highlights https://youtu.be/LOeo4I_MtqU

Previous Clubs:

Llanelli RFC, Cardiff RFC, TATA Steel RFC, Clwb Rygbi Cymru Caerdydd, Cardiff Met RFC, Crymych RFC.

Name: Amir Walji

Age: 28

Height: 184cm

Weight: 94kg

Position: Centre/Wing

Ebbw Vale RFC Indigo Welsh Premiership Fixtures

We kick off our Indigo Premiership fixtures in a derby clash against Indigo Welsh Cup winners Newport, we are then away to Llanelli the following week and welcome our friends from RGC1404 a week later.  There are some big clashes at Christmas, when we host Newport and Merthyr in what should be two Christmas crackers.

03-09-2022

Newport v Ebbw Vale

10/09/2022

Ebbw Vale v Llanelli

24/09/2022

Ebbw Vale v RGC1404

01/10/2022

Cardiff v Ebbw Vale

08/10/2022

Ebbw Vale v Llandovery

15/10/2022

Bridgend v Ebbw Vale

29/10/2022

Ebbw Vale v Swansea

12/11/2022

Aberavon v Ebbw Vale

18/11/2022

Ebbw Vale v Carmarthen Quins

10/12/2022

Pontypridd v Ebbw Vale

17/12/2022

Ebbw Vale v Merthyr

26/12/2022

Ebbw Vale v Newport

07/01/2023

Llanelli v Ebbw Vale

14/01/2023

RGC1404 v Ebbw Vale

21/01/2023

Ebbw Vale v Cardiff

28/01/2023

Llandovery v Ebbw Vale

18/02/2023

Ebbw Vale v Bridgend 

04/03/2023

Swansea v Ebbw Vale

25/03/2023

Ebbw Vale v Aberavon

01/04/2023

Carmarthen Quins v Ebbw Vale

08/04/2023

Ebbw Vale v Pontypridd

15/04/2023

Merthyr v Ebbw Vale 

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 Departures

Ebbw 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 Gnoll
Saturday 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 4^th.

Prior to the start of training there will be a ‘Meet the Club’ evening on Thursday 30^th 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