Rugby is Back in Alltwen
The local rugby club is often at the heart of a community, so when Alltwen RFC went without a senior team last year it was a real loss for the village. That’s why it’s so good to see the club thriving again. After a year’s break, the senior side has returned and will now compete in National League 5 West Central.
Senior coach Jordan Byrne said:
“I’m truly excited to coach my local senior rugby team this season. Alltwen RFC played a huge role in developing my rugby skills throughout my junior years, providing a great foundation that led me to achieve youth international honours and helped me progress into bigger clubs along my rugby journey.
I’m really pleased that they’ve asked me to help rebuild the senior side after last season’s unfortunate withdrawal from the league. It was sad to see, especially given the club’s rich history of winning leagues and cups over the years.
With Chris Murphy (backs coach) onboard, his rugby and coaching experience will play a huge part in developing this squad, and we both hope that senior success will give the junior players something to strive towards.
Alltwen RFC is a very rugby-oriented club, deeply committed to its future, and I’m proud to be part of that vision. I look forward to helping develop the team, strengthening our community, and working towards a successful season ahead.”
Touch Rugby Taking Off
It’s not just the men’s senior team making waves. Both men’s and women’s touch rugby are thriving at the club, with numbers growing fast.
Louise Richards spoke about the women’s side:
“The Alltwen Amigos, our ladies touch rugby team, have been playing for just over a year. It’s been great to get more women involved in the sport and to compete against an ever-increasing number of sides. Alltwen RFC have fully embraced the Amigos and they are a welcome addition to the club.
We train every Wednesday at 6.30pm after the juniors, and we’re always keen to welcome new starters. There are plenty of social events too – we’ve even just had a weekend away in Mid Wales. The future looks bright for the Amigos.”
The men’s touch rugby side – the Alltwen Antiques – has also gone from strength to strength. Coach Simon James explained:
“The Alltwen Antiques have been running for just over a year, offering a fantastic opportunity for those retired from rugby or completely new to the game to get involved in touch rugby. It’s a brilliant way to keep fit, make new friends, and enjoy the camaraderie of rugby without the hard knocks.
Training takes place every Wednesday at 6.30pm on Alltwen Playing Field, and everyone is welcome to give it a go.”
Junior Rugby
The future of Alltwen rugby looks bright too, with teams from U7s through to U10s training every Wednesday.
Coach Cerion Daniel said:
“The juniors have worked really hard this summer during training, and seeing them all play for each other is something all the coaches are delighted with. Watching them enjoy their rugby journey with smiles on their faces makes us very proud.
At this age, rugby is all about making friends, learning together, and having fun. The whole club is proud of how far they’ve come, and we can’t wait to see what these young Alltwen stars achieve next!”
Get Involved
It’s fantastic to see so much rugby happening in Alltwen again. The return of the senior side is a real boost for the village, and there’s a team for everyone – whether you’re lacing up your boots again, trying rugby for the first time, or simply cheering from the sidelines.
Training Times
Amigos (Ladies Touch Rugby): Wednesday, 6.30–7.30pm
Antiques (Men’s Touch Rugby): Wednesday, 6.30–7.30pm
Seniors: Tuesday & Thursday, 6.30–8.00pm
Juniors (U7–U10): Wednesday, 5.30–6.30pm
Contacts
Juniors: Cerion Daniel – 07956 128158,
Andrew Roberts – 07875 551053
Seniors: Jordan Byrne – 07870 116908
Or find Alltwen RFC on social media for more details.
