Sport

Jobs for the boys from the WRU

Published

9 years ago

March 1, 2016

Martyn Phillips: WRU will give players a leg-up after they retire

ALREADY wealthy former professional rugby players will be given a step into high-profile positions at big businesses within Wales and the WRU itself thanks to the launch of the WRU’s new Professional Player Development Programme.

The initiative will provide a pipeline of talented leaders into Welsh industry as well as helping to increase retention of players within Wales during their playing careers.

The programme consists of five elements including mentoring – provided by senior leaders from business and sport – psychometric testing to help determine future job compatibility and performance, support to obtain academic qualifications, work placements, and financial management and advice.

Welsh national age grade sides, women and all regional professional players will be covered by the scheme in future and, resource permitting, the WRU is also currently looking to support recently retired Welsh players where possible.

“We have been clear about our desire to retain talented players in Wales and this programme is part of our commitment to that goal,” said WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips.

“A rugby player’s career is relatively short compared to that of somebody in more traditional employment and we feel we have a duty of care to ensure a successful playing career is followed by a successful career post retirement from the game.”

The WRU has agreements in place with the majority of Welsh universities, as well as other further education establishments, to provide access to education and training on a part time basis as part of the programme and the scheme will eventually extend down to regional players, women and into the academies.

Many senior leaders from the worlds of business and sport have already signed up to the mentoring part of the programme, with the Union appealing globally for further interested parties with Welsh connections to get in touch and join the scheme.

“We went right to the top and asked the Universities if we could send players their way, asked that they be flexible about the players’ time when they are still playing, and for them to help facilitate the whole process – we were warmly received,” said Phillips.

“There are up to 300 careers available, everything from the traditional trades like bricklaying and plumbing to those that require academic qualifications like accountancy, law and medicine and we are appealing for new mentors to come forward.

“We see our players demonstrate courage, integrity, dedication and team work week-in-week out on the pitch.

“These are characteristics which are valuable in any modern business environment and I am confident that any player who embarks on the programme will be a huge asset to any organisation.

“With the level of drive the players show, their leadership and resilience as international sportsmen, they are very likely to be successful in their careers.

“We want to enable lifelong success as opposed to just playing success. We are trying to offer the players a 40- year career, 15 of which will be playing rugby and the other 25 doing something else.”

The Welsh senior international squad were told of the plans – warmly welcomed by Warren Gatland and Sam Warburton, the coach and captain – at a recent meeting.

Phillips has also spoken to many ex-Welsh Internationals who have helped reinforce the need for such an initiative.

And the WRU has set up a new department and solid structures to lead players into new careers of all sorts when their active playing careers end.

“Rugby should not mean that you have a decent career then we throw you to the wolves,” he added.

“We are trying to take away the pressure on players and their families when they are trying to earn it all when still playing.

“We are going to be working on the next thing in which they can be successful, the next thing that gives them a buzz.”

News

Thrilling finale as UK Waterski Championships conclude with a splash

Published

11 hours ago

September 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND’S normally tranquil waterfront was transformed into a high-octane spectacle yesterday as the UK Waterski Racing Championships roared into town for its final round. The event, held on Saturday, 14th September, saw competitors from across the country converge on the Cleddau for a day filled with adrenaline, excitement, and fiercely contested races.

From the crack of dawn, Neyland buzzed with anticipation as racing enthusiasts and families alike gathered at the waterfront. With the event kicking off at 7:00 am, the early birds were treated to the sight of the UK’s best waterski racing teams preparing for the ultimate showdown. The championships, which spanned the entire season, reached a thrilling climax here, as racers vied for those coveted podium positions.

Despite the high level of competition, the organisers ensured a family-friendly atmosphere. With free entry, it was an ideal day out for all ages. Attendees could take in the spectacle from the shoreline while also enjoying the array of facilities available at Neyland Yacht Club. For early risers, volunteers served breakfast rolls, tea, and coffee, setting the tone for a day of community spirit and sporting prowess.

Safety was paramount throughout the event. Strict guidelines were in place to ensure the wellbeing of all participants and spectators. The pontoon was a hive of activity, with clear instructions on launching and mooring to ensure smooth operations. Children, who are always captivated by the speed and skill of waterski racing, were required to be supervised and wear approved life jackets while on the pontoon.

Pre-race administration and safety briefings were efficiently conducted by the UK Waterski Racing Team, ensuring that the event proceeded without a hitch. The signing-in process took place at the timing office at the top of the slipway, setting the stage for a day of intense competition on the water.

Access to Neyland was well-managed, with clear directions for those travelling with large RVs and towing vehicles. The Camper Park at Brunel Quay Car Park provided ample space for visitors, while a dedicated launch crew facilitated the movement of boats to the yacht club. Refuelling protocols were strictly enforced by the Port Authority to prevent any pollution, reflecting the event’s commitment to environmental safety.

As the sun set and the final race concluded, the atmosphere shifted from competitive tension to celebratory cheer. The prize presentation took place outside the yacht club, where winners were crowned amidst applause and cheers from the gathered crowd. For many, the highlight was the Saturday Social, a much-anticipated end-of-season gathering at Neyland Yacht Club. The Alumchine catered a delightful buffet, offering a chance for competitors and spectators to mingle and reflect on the day’s exhilarating events.

The UK Waterski Racing Championships’ final round at Neyland not only showcased the sport at its finest but also reinforced the community spirit that underpins it. From the meticulous organisation to the high-energy races, the event was a resounding success, leaving spectators and participants eagerly awaiting next season.

Images: Martin Cavaney/Herald

News

Residents reminded of IRONMAN Wales road restrictions

Published

2 days ago

September 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

IRONMAN Wales returns to Pembrokeshire in just over a week and there will be full and partial road closures in and around the south of the County.

IRONMAN Wales will be held on Sunday, 22^nd September with thousands of athletes from all over the world taking part in a 2.3mile swim, followed by a 112mile bike ride before finishing with a 26.2mile run.

The swim starts at 7.30am and the predicted last finisher time is around 1am the following morning.

Full information outlining road closures and alternative routes available across the course is available on the IRONMAN website (opens in new window) to help residents plan their travel ahead of the event.

The A40 and A477 will remain open and are unaffected to facilitate access east-west throughout the event.

Emergency services will maintain full access.

Due to the road closure it will not be possible for the 387/8 (Coastal Cruiser) bus service to operate on Sunday 22^nd September. The service will operate as normal on Saturday 21^st and Monday 23^rd September.

The bike course closure map (opens in new window) and run course closure map can also be downloaded from ironman.com

There will also be restrictions in Tenby town centre on Saturday 21^st when IRONKIDS from across the county take part in their running races.

A park and ride shuttle bus will be running on Saturday and Sunday from Carew Airfield and Saundersfoot.

If you have any IRONMAN Wales access questions, please contact [email protected] or call 03330 11 66 00 and provide the following details:

Name
Telephone Number
Journey Start Postcode
Journey End Postcode
Time of Departure
Details of Enquiry

Please note the e-mail address will not be monitored on the event weekend so please plan ahead.

Sport

Thrills, spills, and big wins: Pembrokeshire Division Two heats up

Published

3 days ago

September 12, 2024

Herald Sport

LAST weekend’s action in Pembrokeshire Division Two delivered an exhilarating mix of high-scoring encounters, closely fought draws, and dominant displays, as the league standings begin to take shape.

Merlin’s Bridge Reserves 3-3 Camrose

The highly anticipated local derby between Merlin’s Bridge Reserves and league leaders Camrose did not disappoint, ending in a thrilling 3-3 draw. Camrose, still unbeaten at the top, looked set to secure the win after a brace from James Williams and a strike from Lewis Watts. But Merlin’s Bridge, determined to salvage a point, fought back through captain Morgan Richards. His two-goal performance, capped by a dramatic last-minute equaliser, ensured the Wizards shared the spoils in this action-packed affair.

Fishguard Sports 2-2 Hakin United Reserves

At Tregroes, Fishguard Sports and Hakin United Reserves played out a hard-fought 2-2 stalemate. Both sides remain unbeaten in a game where neither could find the breakthrough to secure all three points. Hakin’s youthful squad showed resilience, earning a commendable point against the more seasoned Fishguard team. Phil Jones’ men now sit fourth in the standings, while Hakin leapfrog to second.

Narberth 9-0 Lawrenny

Narberth delivered the weekend’s most emphatic result, thrashing newly promoted Lawrenny 9-0 at Jesse Road. Jordan Williams and Steff Williams each netted twice, while substitute Jacob Layfield came off the bench to bag a brace of his own. This devastating performance lifts Narberth to third, while Lawrenny, still without a point, languish at the foot of the table, enduring a tough baptism in Division Two.

Neyland 3-1 Johnston

Neyland secured a solid 3-1 home victory over Johnston, with the visitors still struggling to adapt to life in Division Two following their recent relegation. Johnston, with just one win from four matches, found themselves unable to match Neyland’s composure and quality. The result leaves them in the lower half of the table, while Neyland continue to build momentum.

Solva 6-2 Broad Haven

Solva’s impressive start to the season continued with a commanding 6-2 win over Broad Haven. Following their promotion, Solva have emerged as early dark horses, their strong performances keeping them within touching distance of the top spots. For an in-depth report on this feature match, head to our sports section.

Carew Reserves 3-0 Monkton Swifts Reserves

Carew Reserves finally notched their first win of the season with a comfortable 3-0 victory over an out-of-sorts Monkton Swifts Reserves. Last season’s league champions, Monkton, seem a shadow of their former selves, managing just one win from four outings as they continue to struggle to rediscover last year’s form.

With Camrose setting the early pace and several sides showing potential, Pembrokeshire’s Division Two is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive contest this season. Stay tuned for more twists and turns as the battle for promotion heats up.