Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce the signing of scrum half, Rory Harries from Pontypridd RFC. Rory has previously played for Cardiff RFC and Bedwas RFC.
Rory has also played age grade rugby for the Blues (u16’s and U18s), as well as representing Welsh Students.
On signing for Ebbw Vale RFC Rory commented. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent such a prestigious club and I’m looking forward to the upcoming season.”
Ebbw Vale RFC are sorry to announce that Matt Flanagan has decided to step down from the Steelmen squad due to work commitments away from home which has meant he has been unable to train with the squad during preseason.
Matt has been a big part of the squad over several seasons making 84 appearances for the Steelmen since joining the team from Llanelli RFC.
A big favourite with the Addicts, Matt has always been a popular member of the squad, and everyone at the club would like to thank him for his commitment to Ebbw Vale RFC and wish him all the best for the future.
#AlwaysASteelman
The Steelmen return to action tomorrow in the first of their pre-season games against Newbridge RFC at the Rec in Tredegar. The team have really been put through their paces during pre-season and co-captain, Rhys Francis, has written the following message,
“The boys have put in a huge shift over the last 6 weeks and are looking forward to putting everything together on Saturday. The new boys have got up to speed quickly and some of the older heads have really pushed the squad forward. One thing the boys have missed is the support and noise from the Addicts, so it will be great to have you all back on Saturday.”
Match Details
Saturday 12th August
Ebbw Vale RFC v Newbridge RFC
The Rec, Tredegar
Kick Off 2.30pm
ADMISSION: Free
(There will be a bucket collection at the game to support the Mini and Junior Steelers and Youth team)
#SupportTheSteelmen #FeelThe Steel
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that Dylan Davies has been retained for 2023/24.
Dylan, an exciting scrum half, joined Ebbw Vale from Bridgend during last season and made his debut against Swansea in March 2023.
Dylan said, “I am very excited to remain part of such a hardworking and motivated club. Can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on over the summer for this coming season.”
The Steelmen will be holding a Q&A session at the Welfare on Wednesday 16th August where you will have the opportunity to ask questions and find out about plans for the coming season. The club are looking forward to seeing you at the Welfare to discuss pre-season and the season ahead.
Steelmen Departures
Several people involved with the Steelmen on and off the field have left the club following the end of the 2022/23 season and the club would like to thank them all for their commitment to the Steelmen and wish them all the very best for the future.
On the playing front Dave Whiting, Joel Harries, Alex Watkins, Haydn Simons, Morgan Thomas and James Skene have left the squad.
Dave made a big impression with the Addicts since joining Ebbw Vale. A strong scrummaging tight head, Dave made 38 appearances for the Steelmen. We will be meeting up with Dave very soon as he has signed for Merthyr who we play on the opening weekend of the league season.
Joel has been a member of the Steelmen squad for several seasons and has made over 50 appearances for the Steelmen. Joel has stepped back from Premiership rugby for the 2023/24 season.
Alex Watkins, Haydn Simons, Morgan Thomas and James Skene have also left the Steelmen at the end of the 2022/23 season. Although finding appearances limited during the season, Alex, Haydn, Morgan and James could always be relied upon when called into the match squad, giving 100% when on the field, and we wish them all good luck for the future.
Also leaving the club are the physio team of Saran Wyburn and Sam Walker who have been an integral part of the squad over the last few seasons.
Saran has been part of the Physio team at Ebbw Vale RFC for the last 8 seasons, becoming head physio over the last few years. Saran has shown great commitment to the team over this time and The Steelmen wish her all the best for the future.
Working alongside Saran on match days and the weekly training session has been Sam Walker who has also left the club. Sam leaves the Steelmen with our best wishes.
Finally, the club would like to say a big thank you to Damien Jenkins and Alun Harries for their commitment to the development of the mini and junior sections at Ebbw Vale RFC and the formation of the new Youth team over the last few seasons.
Damien, who has been involved with the mini and junior sections for several years, as well as the Steelers Youth team over the past two seasons, has stepped down from all roles at the club.
Alun returned to the club in 2021 as Coaching Development Officer, providing a vital link between the Youth set up and the Senior Squad.
Watch out for further announcements over the next week including the full coaching setup for 2023/24, more player retentions and the Dragons academy players who will be playing for the Steelmen in 2023/24
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce the signing of second row, Ewan McIntyre as part of the new partnership with Christ College, Brecon.
Ewan, who came through the mini and junior sections at Cefn Coed, has also represented Crawshays, the Blues (age grade) and captained the Welsh Academicals team and Christ College.
On signing with Ebbw Vale RFC, Ewan commented, “I’m buzzing to be signing with Ebbw Vale after a successful season. I’m looking forward to putting on the Steelmen jersey for the first time in the coming year.”
Ewan is currently in his Upper Sixth year at Christ College and is part of the Elite Player Pathway.
Following the announcement of the new partnership between Christ College, Brecon and Ebbw Vale RFC earlier in the week, the Steelmen are delighted to announce the signing of back row forward Owen Conquer for the 2023/24 season as part of the new player pathway
Owen, who has played for Llantwit Fadre RFC, has also represented the Blues (age grade) and has captained the Welsh Academicals team. He has also represented Crawshays and been capped by Wales U19s.
On signing with Ebbw Vale RFC, Owen commented, “I would like to thank Jason Strange and everyone else involved at Ebbw Vale RFC for giving me the opportunity to further develop my rugby at such a prestigious club. I cannot wait for the challenges that are yet to come and I am looking forward to learning off some great individuals within the squad. It is an honour to represent the badge.”
Owen is in his Upper Sixth year at Christ College, Brecon and is part of their Elite player pathway.
The 2013/14 season was our last in the Championship and began with an away game with a difference, it was in North Wales where the WRU had created a new club, RGC, that had the good fortune to have Rupert Moon at the helm. In their programme he wrote “I have to pinch myself at the thought of welcoming the players and committee of such an illustrious club stepped in history as Ebbw Vale.” We responded with a 31-16 win with tries from Ronnie Kynes, Spencer Gibson and a penalty try boosted by Dan Haymond landing four penalty goals and two conversions.
Led by the irrepressible Damien Hudd the Steelmen were in confident mood for the first home game of the season against Bargoed which we won 33-18 after being 13-8 down at half-time. Tries came from Jack Flower, Wes Cunliffe, Sion Jones and Joe Franchi, Ian Smerdon converting two, dropping a goal and kicking a penalty. Josh Prosser also landed a penalty and the scene was set for a season that would end with promotion. Man of the Match was Cameron Regan.
Jason Strange was our head coach in 2013/14 as he is today and comments in the match programme for the Bargoed game still apply – “Success in rugby does not come without commitment on and off the field. Whether taking part in vigorous pre-season training improving fitness and skills, focusing on the development of the match day game plan or an in-depth analysis of performance, all can provide that edge that keeps you ahead of the opposition. Even the smallest attention to detail can provide that one opportunity that will achieve victory.”
Our return to the Premiership began in September 2014 at home against Llandovery that was a thriller we won 30-29 one of many close finishes with the Drovers and more entertaining than our first game with them in 1982. We were in the 2nd Division and travelled west to endure a game later described as being as tight as a club treasurer’s wallet. It was try-less and a 3-3 draw looked likely until our young outside-half, Jason Strange, dropped a cheeky goal and we won 6-3. After sampling the local brew we travelled east feeling satisfied and confident we had found a lad of considerable promise.
REL
Christ College Brecon has announced a new partnership with Ebbw Vale RFC as it looks to strengthen ties with local rugby clubs.The collaboration will see the co-educational independent school and the club work together to develop opportunity pathways for players across all age groups from senior, youth and junior rugby, and coincides with two Upper Sixth players being selected to play for Ebbw Vale next season. Pupils Owen Conquer and Ewan McIntyre will begin squad training with the experienced ‘Steelmen’ team and have the opportunity to develop their rugby skills further by playing at competition level.The partnership is a chance for Ebbw Vale to support the development of aspiring youth rugby players and recruit those with potential, while the college will gain a presence at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium and support key events throughout the sporting calendar.
Christ College’s approach of linking with local rugby to amplify the sport at a grassroot level aligns with WRU’s vision of developing the game at a community level. It also supports the school’s Elite Player Pathway programme that aspires pupils to excel in sport and enables them access to additional coaching, individual player development plans and one-to-one mentoring.Christ College Brecon Director of Rugby, Dan Parry, who played for Merthyr RFC and represented Wales in Rugby League, said: “We’re really excited about the new partnership with Ebbw Vale and are looking forward to rolling out the development and player recruitment phase from September, which includes placing more of our current elite pupils with them. Another area of the partnership will be attending club open days and tournaments and utilising our players to help coach and referee these events.”John Patterson, Director of Sport at Christ College Brecon said: “Rugby has always been an important part of life at Christ College and we work closely with WRU to ensure our rugby provision is of the best standard to support pupils who wish to develop their sport alongside their academic studies.“Partnering with Ebbw Vale will open up further opportunities to our pupils who share this passion for rugby.”Ebbw Vale RFC Chairman Jonathan Jones said: “We are extremely pleased to begin an exciting phase of the club’s development by securing a key partner in the training of young aspirational rugby players. Owen and Euan are a credit to the rugby programme at Christ College and our coaching staff are confident that they will perform strongly in the Indigo Premiership in the coming season. The partnership further strengthens Ebbw Vale RFC’s historical link with the region.”Christ College combines its academic programme with an expansive sports provision including, hockey, netball, track and field, sailing, skiing and equestrian and boasts 40 acres of ground which houses rugby pitches, an astroturf pitch, cricket squares, hard court tennis courts, netball courts and outdoor cricket nets.For further information please contact admissions@christcollegebrecon.com or visit www.christcollegebrecon.com.
Joint Captains Announced For 2023/24
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that Joe Franchi and Rhys Francis will once again be co-captains for the Steelmen in 2023/24.
The 2 players bring vast experience to the Ebbw Vale Squad with Joe having made 167 appearances and Rhys 119 appearances for the Steelmen.
On being announced as co-captain, Joe commented, “It’s a massive honour to be named captain for another year. I think the partnership between myself and Rhys worked really well last year, and it was a no-brainer when Chippy asked us to do the same thing again this year. I’m sure Rhys will agree that our job is also made easier by having so many good leaders within the team who have lots of experience in the premiership and regionally. I’m really excited to see what this group can achieve this season.”
Rhys added, “Once again it’s a massive honour to be asked to co-captain the team. The progress we made last year both on and off the field was a testament to every single person involved with Ebbw Vale. Hopefully I can continue to play a small part in the journey the club is on and ultimately, finish the season with some silverware!”
Head coach, Jason Strange stated that it had been an easy decision for Joe and Rhys to continue as co-captains for 2023/24 saying that,
“It worked so well last year; both were excellent on and off the field and epitomize what we want at the club. Both are hardworking players with a great attitude, who hold themselves and others to the highest standards and expectations.”
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that Evan Lloyd has been retained for the 2023/24 season. Evan has made such an impact at number 10 since joining the Steelmen and last season played in all 24 matches scoring over 200 points. Evan is starting his 3rd season with Ebbw Vale and will be looking to pass 50 appearances for the Steelmen this year.
Evan commented, “Really looking forward to the new season and hoping to really push on after an enjoyable campaign last year. The club has a great vision both on and off the field and it’s something which I am looking forward to contributing to. There’s a great bunch of people involved within the club all striving for some silverware this coming season.”
The fixtures for the Indigo Group Premiership for 2023/24 have been released.
The Steelmen begin their campaign at the Wern against Merthyr RFC on the 2nd September before Pontypridd RFC visit the Ciner Glass Community Stadium on the 9th September.
Ebbw Vale are pleased to announce that Amir Jiwa-Walji has been retained for the 2023/24 season. Amir, who can play at both centre and wing, made 22 appearances in his first season with the Steelmen.
Amir commented, “Really happy to be re-signing for this year after a very enjoyable first season. Looking forward to getting stuck into pre-season and hopefully a successful season ahead.”
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to sign young back row Ben Main from Abergavenny RFC. Ben, at the age of 18, is following in the footsteps of his Grandfather Gordon Main, who played for the Steelmen in the 1960’s.
Ben has previously played for the Dragons U16s and has had representative honours with Crawshays Youth.
On signing with the Steelmen, Ben commented, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to sign at the early age of 18 for a Premiership Club and also follow in the footsteps of my Grandfather who played and coached in the 1960s at Ebbw Vale.”
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce the signing of hooker, Ieuan Morris from Pontypridd RFC. Ieuan, has previously played for Merthyr RFC and Bedlinog RFC and represented Wales Under 19s against Japan in 2019.
On signing for Ebbw Vale RFC, Ieuan commented, “Looking forward to coming to Ebbw Vale as it’s a club with a massive history, class fans and an exciting future that Jason and the coaches have in plan. Looking forward to playing in front of the Ebbw fans at home and hopefully have a good season in both league and cup.”
Bevan Jay
Ebbw Vale RFC are pleased to announce the signing of Bevan Jay from Cardiff Met RFC. Bevan played several games for the Steelmen on permit during the 2022/23 season and is a physical, hard tackling back row forward.
Bevan has previously played for Penallta and Newbridge, represented Crawshays Youth and was part of the Dragons U18s squad.
On signing full time with the Steelmen, Bevan said, “It’s an absolute honour and privilege to sign for this club, A club with so much history and great fan base, I can’t wait to get started and play in front of a packed-out Ciner Glass Community Stadium crowd.”
Cameron Regan
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce the return of Cameron Regan to Ebbw Vale RFC for 2023/24. Cameron played a big part in the Steelmen’s return to the Premiership and was part of the team that won the Welsh Premiership in 2015/16. Cameron is returning to Ebbw Vale RFC from Pontypool RFC and is closing in on 200 appearances for the Steelmen.
On his return, Cameron said, “Really looking forward to coming back home to Ebbw. For me, Ebbw Vale is my heart and there is no other club like it. I’ve just recently had knee surgery and I’m really looking forward to getting myself fit, ready for a big pre-season with the boys.
I’ve heard there is a good atmosphere around the club, on and off the field, so hopefully we can relive some old times and win a bit of silverware.”
Andrew Mann and Ryan Jenkins Retained for the 2023/24 Season
Returning to the Steelmen for the 2023/24 season will be Andrew Mann. Andrew, who plays in both the 2nd row and back row made 15 appearances for the Steelmen in 2022/23
Manny commented, “This will be my last dance, the final season before hanging my boots up! Privileged to re-sign for Ebbw Vale which is a great honour. Jason has a special group of young players who can achieve special things. Looking forward to dig deep and reap the rewards.”
Ryan Jenkins has been retained for 2023/24. Ryan, a powerful ball-carrying back row forward joined Ebbw Vale RFC during last season. Ryan made 7 appearances during 2022/23 scoring 1 try.
On starting his 2nd season with Ebbw Vale RFC, Ryan commented, “It’s a great feeling re-signing for Ebbw Vale RFC for the upcoming season. 100% it was my best decision joining last year, a great group of boys here and I am excited to get back on the field with them. We were unlucky not finishing in the top 4 but this year I know we are capable of that and hopefully some silverware too.”
Watch out for further player announcements starting tomorrow at 6.30pm
Pre-Season Fixtures 2023/24
Ebbw Vale RFC are pleased to announce their pre-season fixtures for the 2023/24 season.
On Saturday 12th August, the Steelmen will face Gwent neighbours, Newbridge RFC, at the Recreation Ground in Tredegar with a 2.30pm kick off. Newbridge had a very successful season in 2022/23 gaining promotion to the Championship and winning the Division 1 Cup at the Principality Stadium.
Then on Saturday 19th August, the Steelmen will travel to Clifton RFC in Bristol, for another pre-season friendly, also with a 2.30pm kick off. The Steelmen return to Clifton for a second successive season for what promises to be a very competitive pre-season game. The club had a very warm welcome at Clifton RFC last season and the Addicts will once again be providing transport to the match. More details to follow.
League fixtures will be announced on social media as soon as they have been released.
Are you missing your weekly rugby fix?
Well, this coming Saturday (10/06/23) Polish International Steelman Jakub Malecki plays for KS Budowlani Commercecon Lodz as they take on Sparta Jarocin, in the the Final of the Polish 1st Rugby League.
The winning team will be promoted to Ekstraliga, the highest rugby league in Poland.
You can watch the whole match for free on YouTube Kick off at 12pm
Ebbw Vale are delighted to announce the signing of prop, Owen Hatherill for the 2023/24 season.
Owen, who has played for Glamorgan Wanderers for the last two seasons, had previously played for the Cardiff Blues U16s and U18s, and has also represented Crawshays Rugby.
Owen commented, “I am really excited and looking forward to the new challenge ahead of playing in the Premiership alongside and against some great players.”