Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
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.
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 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
