Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
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.”
Also joining the Steelmen in 2023/24 is another exciting recruit in the backline, Amir Saleh.
Amir, who can play at wing or full back, has been playing for Glamorgan Wanderers for the past two seasons and was previously part of the Blues U16s and U18s squads.
On signing for Ebbw Vale, Amir stated, “I am really happy to sign for Ebbw Vale. It’s my first time signing for a Premiership club after playing in the Championship for two seasons. I can’t wait to get started!”
Click on the video to see some of Amir’s highlights.
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce the signing of Ewan Bowden for the 2023/24 season. Ewan, a pacy, versatile back, has joined the Steelmen from Cardiff Met RFC and can play at centre, wing or full back.
On signing for the Steelmen, Ewan commented, “I am delighted to be joining Ebbw Vale for the upcoming season. The small experience of the players, coaching staff and the addicts at the end of the season has made me excited for a tough pre-season ahead. I am fully looking forward to developing under Jason and to begin my journey with the Steelmen.”
Click on the video to see some of Ewan’s highlights.
Returning to the Steelmen for the 2023/24 season will be two exciting front row prospects Charley Kearns and Harry Drane.
Charley, an athletic, ball carrying loosehead forward, made 11 appearances during the 2022/23 season before injury cut short his first season with the Steelmen
Charley said, “It’s a privilege to re-sign for Ebbw. I’m looking forward to being back grafting on the pitch with the boys after last season being cut short for myself. This year we’re here to prove that last season wasn’t a fluke, that we can go toe to toe with any team and I’m sure the hard work and dedication given by every player and coach will be rewarded come the end of next season.”
Also returning will be the powerful scrummaging tight head, Harry Drane, who made 13 appearances during the 2022/23 season scoring 1 try.
Harry stated, “I am really happy to put pen to paper for this season. The environment the boys and coaches have created is second to none. Looking forward to the coming season and getting back into pre-season.”
Watch out for new signings… Coming soon!
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that back row Lewis Young and 2nd row Jakub Malecki have been retained for 2023/24
The ever-popular Lewis made a big impact in 2022/23 when moving to the openside flanker position. Lewis made 21 appearances, scoring 3 tries and also passed his 100 caps for the club during the season.
Lewis commented, “It was a no-brainer to re-sign this year, we shocked a lot of people last year with a very fresh squad. The togetherness in the whole club from the supporters, coaches, players and backroom staff is one of the best I feel we have had together at Ebbw Vale RFC in a long time. I believe that with the coaches and squad we have, we can keep building on from last year and do something special in the coming season and push for silverware.”
Also returning will be lineout forward Jakub Malecki. Jakub made 6 appearances for the Steelmen in 2022/23.
Jakub, known as Kuba is part of the Polish International squad and has been involved in a number of international training camps and matches during 2022/23.
Kuba stated, “I am really pleased to have re-signed for Ebbw. The togetherness of the squad, great atmosphere in the club as a whole and the knowledgeable coaching staff and players made the decision simple. I am looking forward to the upcoming season which I know will be very successful.”
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that Matt Flanagan and Adam Court will once again be Steelmen in 2023/24
Returning for another season of Steelmen rugby will be scrum half, Matthew Flanagan who will be looking to reach his 100-cap milestone for the Steelmen during the 2023/24 season. Matt made 19 appearances during 22/23 scoring 2 tries.
Matt stated, “It’s always a privilege to re-sign for Ebbw Vale. Looking forward to a big season ahead with a great group of players, coaches, and fans. I have no doubt that with the squad we’ve got, we will be fighting for silverware this year.”
Also retained for 2023/24 is Adam Court, another member of our powerful front row union who made 19 appearances for the Steelmen in 2022/23.
Adam commented, “Really enjoyed my first season at Ebbw. Great season as a completely new squad. Looking forward to pushing on next year and competing for the league and cup.”
Up Front
Returning for another season with the Steelmen will be Luke Garrett and Gethin Williams
Luke, a powerful scrummaging forward, has been an integral part of the Steelmen squad for a number of seasons and made 21 appearances in the 2022/23 scoring 2 tries.
Luke said, “I feel very pleased to have signed for another season at Ebbw Vale. The great progress we have made this season and with the majority of the squad retained for next year, shows we are building something special on and off the field. Exciting times ahead! I can’t wait to get the ball rolling.”
Also returning for 2023/24 will be ball carrying back rower Gethin Williams who made such a big impact in his first full season with the Steelmen. Gethin made 22 appearances in 2022/23 scoring 1 try.
Gethin stated, “Last season we turned a lot of heads and showed that we are a proper side to compete with in the league. I’m looking forward to improving on last season individually and as a team and taking the next step towards the ultimate goal, trophies. With the unrivalled support of the Addicts, the coaches, and a strong group of players, we are in a great position to succeed next year.”
Next Announcement: Monday 29th May @ 6.30pm
Ebbw Vale are thrilled to announce the retention of Morgan Richards and Ryan Davies for the 2023/24 season.
Morgan played most of his first season at full back, where his explosive turn of pace saw him scoring 10 tries including the try against Pontypridd that was voted try of the season by the Ebbw Addicts. Morgan made 22 appearances in 22/23, scoring 10 tries.
Morgan said, “After having so many new faces at the start of last season, no one expected us to do as well as we did in the league. It is going to be very exciting when the squad gets back together so we can carry on where we left off. So that is one of the many reasons why I wanted to re-sign for Ebbw Vale next season. Also, a massive shout out for the Ebbw fans for the unbelievable support on and off the pitch.”
Also returning will be young winger Ryan Davies, who excited the Ebbw faithful with his electric pace during the season. Ryan also caught the eye of the Welsh selectors this season and has been part of the Wales U20s squad. Ryan made 14 appearances during the season scoring 3 tries.
Ryan said, “I am very happy to re-sign for Ebbw Vale. I’ve really enjoyed this season with the boys and the club and now just looking forward to next season and try and get into the top 3 in the table.”
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that both Curtis Gregory and Kieran Meek will be starting their 2nd season as Steelmen in 2023/24
Curtis has made a big impact at the club in the 2nd row following his arrival at the club last season. A hard tackling lineout forward Curtis made 19 appearances in 22/23, scoring 1 try.
Curtis said, “I’m pleased to be re-signing. There was no question for me if I wanted to stay. The club, the boys and supporters are great and I’m looking forward to see what we can achieve in the upcoming season.”
Kieran has proved to be a great addition to the squad since joining the squad in November playing at outside half, centre, and full back. He has also shown to have nerves of steel kicking the winning penalty against Pontypridd and a last-minute drop goal to beat Bridgend. Kieran made 16 appearances for the Steelmen in 22/23.
Kieran said, “Really pleased to have re-signed for next season, fantastic group of players, coaches and fans. Looking to build on what we achieved this season and aim to fight for trophies in the up-and-coming season.”
Next announcement on Friday 26th May @ 6.30pm
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Back in the Pack
Following the announcement of one co-captain, Ebbw Vale RFC are pleased to confirm that the other co-captain Rhys Francis will again be a Steelman for the 2023/24 season. Having returned to the club in 2022/23 Rhys finally reached his 100th appearance during the season. Rhys made 21 appearances overall during the season scoring 2 tries.
Rhys said, “It’s an honour each year to be given the opportunity to re-sign with Ebbw. With the squad we are building, the off-field developments and the continued support from the Addicts, it’s an exciting time for everyone associated with the club!”
Also staying with the Steelmen for his second season is young backrow Chad Thomas who was such a hit with supporters during the 2022/23 season making 21 appearances and scoring 4 tries.
Chad commented, “I couldn’t put pen to paper quick enough! The environment Jason and the coaching team have created is spot on and the boys welcomed me with open arms with it being my first season… can’t wait to get the ball rolling for 2023/24.”
Next Announcement: Thursday 25th May @ 6.30pm
Presentation night
The Steelmen held their annual end of season presentation evening on Saturday 20th May at the Welfare. The night was well supported and included video presentations, a number of speeches and the presentation of the awards.
The awards, including the coveted Clive Burgess Man of Steel, were announced by club President Mark Powell and the winners were as follows:
- Clive Burgess Man of Steel – Dom Franchi.
- Denzel Williams Players Player of the Year – Ethan Phillips.
- Gareth Howls Captain Award – Co-captains Joe Franchi and Rhys Francis.
- Ivor Evans Clubman of the Year – Lewis Young.
- Doctor Gordon Thomas Award – Joe Franchi
- Ebbw Addicts Player of the Year – Dylan Bartlett
- Ebbw Addicts Most Promising Player – Carrick McDonough
- Top Point scorer – Evan Lloyd with 187 in the league
- Top Try Scorer – Carrick McDonough with 10 in the league
- 100 Caps – Rhys Francis, Lewis Young and Dom Franchi.
- Try of the season – Fullback Morgan Richards for his try against Pontypridd at Sardis Road.
A special mention to Ebbw Vale youth winger Harry Rees Weldon who received his Wales u18s cap on the evening from WRU employee Angharad Collins.
The club would like to thank all those involved for their hard work, the supporters for their amazing support both home and away and are looking forward to seeing everyone next year, which promises to be another exciting season of Steelmen Rugby.
Indigo Premiership End of Season Statistics
Evan Lloyd 187 League Points (2nd in League)
Gethin Williams 14 dominant tackles (2nd in League)
Carrick McDonough 10 tries (3rd in League)
Lewis Young 28 turnovers (4th in League)
Ethan Phillips 12 line breaks (3rd in League)
Dom Franchi won the coveted Man of Steel Award, while Dylan Bartlett was awarded the Ebbw Addicts Player of the Year at the end of season Presentation Evening
Presentation Night Videos. Details of Award Winners to follow…
Tries, Tries and more Tries!
One Club, One Cause, One Passion
Twin Town – Joe and Dom Franchi back for 2023/24
Joe and Dom Franchi will once again play for their hometown club in 2023/24. With more than 250 appearances between them for the Steelmen, the Franchi boys have been an integral part of the Steelmen squad for a number of years.
Joe has led from the front all season and passed 150 appearances for the Steelmen during the year. As co-captain of the team, Joe made 18 appearances during the season and scored three tries.
Joe stated, “I’m very excited to re-sign for next year. I think there is a real buzz around the playing group, coaches, backroom staff and supporters for what is happening on and off the field at the club. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together next season.”
Joining Joe will be his twin brother, Dom, who passed his 100 appearances during the season, Dom’s abrasive style is so popular with the Ebbw faithful and he started in 23 appearances during 22/23 and scored 1 try.
On being with the Steelmen for another season, Dom said, “Ebbw is my home and there’s no place I’d rather be. It was a no-brainer. All I needed was a pen!”
Next Announcement: Monday 22nd May @6.30pm
Jon Evans and Ethan Phillips Retained
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that Jon Evans and Ethan Phillips will once again be Steelmen for the 2023/24 season.
Jon Evans will be starting his 3rd season at Ebbw Vale, having made 22 appearances in 2022/23 and scoring 2 tries. Jon was also selected to play for for Crawshays in Hong Kong during the 22/23 season.
Jon said, “I am really excited to continue building on the good work we put in last season. What we achieved as a group with the age and experience of our squad far surpassed anyone’s expectations. A lot of the players now understand how tough the Welsh Prem can be and what is required to win week in week out, but we want more. I want Ebbw to be competing for Silverware and give the amazing Ebbw fans something to celebrate.”
Also returning to the Steelmen for 23/24 will be local favourite, Ethan Phillips. Ethan scored 7 tries in 20 appearances during the 22/23 season and also passed 50 appearances for the Steelmen during the year.
Ethan commented, “I am delighted to have re-signed once again. It is always a no-brainer for me playing for my hometown club. It’s exciting seeing the club moving in the right direction and I am looking forward to pushing on from last season.”
Next announcement: Friday 19th May @ 6.30pm