Sport

Pivac is Gatland’s successor

Published

6 years ago

July 9, 2018

THE current Scarlets boss will take over from Warren Gatland, who is scheduled to step down after the 2019 Rugby World Cup when he will have served more than 12 years at the helm.

Replacing the longest serving and most successful head coach in the history of the game in Wales has been a major priority for Welsh Rugby Union chief executive Martyn Phillips since Gatland confirmed his decision to move on at the end of his contract in December 2019.

Pivac’s appointment is the result of a two year process undertaken by Phillips and WRU chairman Gareth Davies, which has involved meticulous research and extensive consultation, and this announcement leaves a year-long gap ahead of his start date, by design.

The 55-year-old former Fiji and Auckland boss – and one-time coaching colleague to both Graham Henry and Steve Hansen – will remain at the 2017 Guinness Pro12 winning Scarlets for the entirety of the 2018/19 season and will only officially come under WRU employment in July 2019.

Gatland, of course, continues in exclusive charge of Wales up to and throughout the RWC, but arrangements for a smooth handover can now be planned in earnest, with the distraction of speculation entirely removed.

“In Wayne Pivac, we have secured the best man for the job and we have done so rigorously and decisively to the collective benefit of all involved in Welsh rugby,” said Phillips.

“I am extremely grateful to the Scarlets for their support of this process and their chairman, Nigel Short, in particular who has been first class throughout.

“Both Wayne and Warren and their coaching teams, our international players, supporters and everyone at the Scarlets now have clarity and there is no underestimating the positive benefit to be gained from having the time to plan properly for the future.

“We have avoided the feeding frenzy that can come at the end of a RWC year and we have been meticulous in ensuring we have someone of the talent, experience, charisma and rugby acumen to do the very best possible job for Welsh rugby. The handover process is something we will plan carefully and commence in detail next summer.

“And, for the Scarlets, what coach, whether they are in Wales or anywhere around the rugby playing world, would not relish the opportunity to join a team of such rich history and proven professionalism?

“I would like to think that given the heritage of the Scarlets, their culture, passionate supporters, their track record of success and the quality of their squad that the head coach position will be one of the most sought after in rugby.

“In the meantime, it is vitally important that there are no distractions for Warren, his backroom team and his players and it is equally necessary that Wayne is able to concentrate exclusively on the Scarlets’ progression throughout the season ahead.”

Pivac will be the 23rd man to lead Wales since David Nash was appointed head coach in 1967 – a WRU panel of selectors ran the international teams before that time.

“It’s both a huge honour and a privilege to have been asked to be the next Wales coach,” said Pivac, whose impressive coaching CV includes a hat-trick of NPC titles with Auckland, before being voted New Zealand coach of the year in 2003, an international stint with Fiji – where he won the Pacific Tri-Nations (’04) and the 2005 RWC Sevens – and lifting the Guinness Pro12 trophy with the Scarlets in 2017.

“I know I’m following in the footsteps of someone who is held in extremely high regard, not only by the Welsh public, but also by the players who have played under him and I will be doing my best to protect the legacy which Warren Gatland, with the help of those players, will inevitably leave behind.

“What Martyn Phillips has achieved here is fairly unique in world sport, I have a further 12 months to dedicate my time to the Scarlets and, in the background, the necessary plans and preparations can be put in place to ensure a smooth transition after the World Cup.

“To be able to complete the process this far in advance helps the Scarlets, helps Wales and affords me the luxury of time in which to prepare in earnest for one of the biggest jobs in the world game.

“I’ll do everything in my power to reward the two men alongside me here today (Gareth Davies and Martyn Phillips) who have put their faith in me, but also to live up to the expectations of the hugely passionate and knowledgeable rugby loving Welsh public.

“It will be an almighty challenge, but one that I’m more than ready for and one that I will relish.”

WRU chairman Gareth Davies said: “You only have to look at the way the Scarlets play and their recent achievements to get excited about the prospect of Wayne Pivac coaching Wales.

“We have undertaken a hugely thorough process to make this appointment, it has been more than two years in the making and we were both impressed by Wayne throughout and by the variety of his accomplishments during a lengthy career in coaching.

“Wayne will bring the holistic approach to the job we are looking for and will be immediately ready to pick up where Warren leaves off – he offers the complete package and we are delighted to have secured his services.”

The finer details of Pivac’s transition period to Wales, succession planning at the Scarlets and the make-up of his backroom staff, will begin to be ironed out post-Wayne’s Scarlets responsibilities, with no further announcements on any of these subjects to be expected before next summer.

Pivac’s full and immediate attention will return to the Scarlets and the season ahead, with the confirmation of his appointment as the next coach of Wales being accompanied by the full backing of his current employers.

“We see Wayne’s appointment as a major and significant endorsement of the successful environment we have fostered here at the Scarlets,” said the Scarlets General Manager of Rugby Jon Daniels.

“We have been involved with this process at every stage alongside the WRU and are particularly grateful to have a full season to now work on our own succession planning for Wayne’s departure. Obviously we are sad to see him go, but we would not, for one second, have considered standing in his way when the country came calling and our focus is on ensuring his final season in charge sees him go out on a high as we continue to plan for the future.”

Gatland is also focussing on the here and now, but the man who has won two Grand Slams, reached a Rugby World Cup semi-final and will have led Wales on more than 120 occasions by the end of his third RWC campaign in 2019, is delighted with his countryman’s appointment.

“I would like to congratulate Wayne on the appointment and the honour of being named head coach,” added Gatland.

“Martyn and Gareth have been meticulous in their search and once they decided who the best man for the job was, they have signed him up, putting any speculation to rest.

“From a Wales squad perspective, that’s all we can ask for, we can now focus on the challenge ahead and continue to build for RWC 2019 without any distractions.

“The World Cup is a key focus and Wayne’s early appointment will help us keep that focus. Additionally I’m determined to ensure that Wayne is given the best possible opportunity to succeed in this job when he starts after the World Cup and I will do everything I can to help him.

“With the announcement now public we can plan properly and ensure smooth transition to benefit the future of Welsh rugby.”

Related Topics:Manager Rugby Scarlets Wales Warren Gatland Wayne Pivac

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Sport

Talent, skill and dedication rewarded at Sport Pembrokeshire Awards

Published

2 hours ago

December 3, 2024

Herald Sport

THE TALENT, skill and dedication of Pembrokeshire’s fantastic sporting community was celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony last week.

The Sport Pembrokeshire Awards 2024 were held at Folly Farm on Friday November 29^th.

For the first time in 17 years, a new compere took charge after renowned sports journalist Bill Carne decided to hang up the microphone in 2023.

Ceri Coleman-Phillips of BBC Wales Sport took up the presenting responsibilities with aplomb as the winners were revealed.

The judges commented on how difficult their job had been to whittle the high-quality nominations down after 252 entries poured in from across Pembrokeshire.

The winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award was Brian Hearne, whose contributions to tennis in Pembrokeshire spans more than 50 years.

Described as a fierce competitor on the court and a gentleman off it, qualified coach Brian has inspired countless players over the years

Brian took over the reins of the Pembrokeshire County Open Tennis Tournament in 1966, ensuring its legacy continues now into its 75th year.

A member of Haverfordwest’s first team for 45 years, Brian represented South Wales and Wales in veterans age groups, and won a Welsh doubles title.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment, Brian became Haverfordwest Tennis Club’s first life member in 1990. Today, at 85, he serves as club president.

The winner of the Chairman’s Special Achievement Award, presented by Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman Cllr Steve Alderman, was Paralympic gold medallist Matt Bush.

Cllr Alderman described Matt as “a phenomenal athlete whose journey epitomises resilience, dedication, and triumph.”

Cllr Alderman added: “Matt’s victory in the taekwondo K44 +80kg category at the Paris 2024 Paralympics is a landmark moment for Pembrokeshire sport.

“In the 18 year history of the Sport Pembrokeshire Awards, we have never before celebrated a gold medal Paralympian but we do so now with immense pride.”

Following his victory in the gold medal contest, Matt received the prestigious honour of being a Great Britain flagbearer for the closing Paralympic ceremony.

With Matt’s win in mind, the evening took a look back at the Pembrokeshire men and women who had competed in the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, or were part of the support teams, and how their efforts on the biggest sporting stage will inspire the next generation of local athletes.

It would have been remiss not to mention Jodie Grinham, originally from Haverfordwest, who made history by becoming the first pregnant athlete to win a Paralympic gold medal in archery and became one of the faces of the Paralympic Games.

This year’s school award went to Cleddau Reach VC Primary School.

The school award is considered one of the most significant because nurturing a love of sport at a young age is vitally important to ongoing health and well-being.

Cleddau Reach VC, under Headteacher Rhys Buckley, was described as a school at the heart of its community in Llangwm and offering pupils and staff numerous opportunities to try all manner of sports and activities.

The sporting ethos of the school is simple but underpins everything they do.

That ethos is: If there’s an event taking place, the school attends.

With a focus on ensuring sport is for everyone, pupils are encouraged to be role models to younger peers and create that lifelong enjoyment of sport.

Mr Buckley was joined by Ricky Pearson and Caty Brock to receive the award along with some of the pupils.

Ceri brought a wonderful evening to a close with a reminder of the dedication involved from everyone to ensure sports continues to thrive in Pembrokeshire.

She said: “We celebrate not just the winners but every nominee, coach and supporter who makes sport in Pembrokeshire so extraordinary.”

Winners and finalists:

Girls (U16) Sporting Achievement

Chloe John-Driscoll (Shooting) – winner

Cerys Griffiths (Swimming) – finalist

Ffion Bowen (Football) – finalist

Boys (U16) Sporting Achievement

Carter Heywood (Football) – winner

Hugo Boyce (Cycling) – finalist

Ned Rees-Wigmore (Hockey) – finalist

Club of the Year

Haverfordwest Gymnastics Club – winner

Strength Academy Wales Cymru – finalist

Camrose AFC Women & Girls Football – finalist

Junior (U16) Disability Sport Award

Jac Johnson (Gymnastics) – winner

Finnley Walters (Boxing) – finalist

Lewis Crawford (Boccia) – finalist

Disability Sport Award

Jules King (Crossfit) – winner

Evelyn Thomas (Powerlifting) – finalist

Marc Evans (Cricket) – finalist

Young Volunteer of the Year

Anna May (Tennis & Surfing) – winner

Caitlin Chapman (Netball) – finalist

George Richards (Cricket) – finalist

Junior (U16) Team Achievement of the Year

Neyland Yacht Club Junior Sailing Team – winner

Chaos Thunder U12’s Netball Team – finalist

Hakin United AFC u16’s – finalist

Unsung Hero

John Laugharne (Rugby) – winner

Owen Shanklin (Pool) – finalist

Sue Christopher (Surf Lifesaving) – finalist

Team Achievement of the Year

Fishguard & Goodwick Ladies Hockey Club – winner

Alan Evans, Andrew Evans & Michael John (Short Mat Bowls) – finalist

Pembrokeshire County Bowls Team- finalist

Male Sporting Achievement

Sam Coleman (Powerboat Racing) – winner

Jeremy Cross (Tennis) – finalist

Rhys Llewellyn (Athletics) – finalist

Female Sporting Achievement

Helen Carrington (Powerlifting) – winner

Gracie Griffiths (Race Walking) – finalist

Seren Thorne (Shooting) – finalist

Club Organiser

Nadine Tyrrell (Gymnastics) – winner

Paul Hudson (Short Mat Bowls) – finalist

Nick Shelmerdine (Cricket) – finalist

Coach of the Year

Tom Richards (Tennis) – winner

Francesca Morgan (Swimming) – finalist

Philippa Gale (Netball) – finalist

School Award

Cleddau Reach VC Primary School – winner

Lifetime Achievement Award

Brian Hearne – winner

Chairman’s Special Achievement Award

Matt Bush – winner

Sport

Local Angharad James-Turner leads Cymru in historic Euro ’25 play-off final

Published

4 days ago

November 29, 2024

Luke Sinclair

TONIGHT (Nov 29), Pembrokeshire’s own Angharad James-Turner will captain the Cymru Women’s national football team in the first leg of their crucial Euro 2025 play-off final against the Republic of Ireland in Cardiff. As the youngest player ever to accumulate 100 caps for Cymru, Angharad’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as Cymru battles for a spot in next summer’s European Championship.

A star in the making

Angharad James’ footballing career began in the heart of Pembrokeshire, where she first showcased her talent with local club Manorbier Ladies, not far from her hometown of Haverfordwest. Her ability on the pitch quickly caught the attention of larger clubs, and at 16, she joined the Arsenal Academy. By 2011, she had made her debut for Arsenal in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, marking the start of an illustrious career.

From there, James has played for an impressive array of clubs across the globe, including Notts County, Yeovil Town, Everton, Reading, North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, and Tottenham Hotspur. Her versatility as a midfielder, as well as her time playing as a fullback at Spurs, has earned her a reputation as an exceptional player who can control the game and set up her teammates with key assists

Now 30, James has become the heartbeat of the Welsh national team. She was named Cymru captain in October 2024, taking over the leadership role from Sophie Ingle. Despite the big shoes to fill, Angharad has proven herself to be more than capable, leading her team through tough qualifiers, including the pivotal play-offs for Euro 2025

A champion on and off the pitch

Angharad’s international career is nothing short of remarkable. She made her senior debut for Wales at just 17 and reached 100 caps in 2022, the same day Wales qualified for the World Cup play-offs for the first time. Her contribution to Welsh football has been pivotal, and she was named to represent Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics

Off the pitch, Angharad is equally impressive. She’s a proud Welsh speaker and regularly conducts interviews in Welsh, despite the challenges of living abroad for much of her career. In a recent social media post, she spoke about her ongoing commitment to the language, sharing her belief that it’s important to keep Welsh alive and accessible

In addition to her football career, Angharad is also a proud co-owner of a coffee van, “Two Sides Grind,” which she runs with her partner Amy James-Turner and their dog, Betsy. The duo is working towards one day owning a coffee shop, demonstrating Angharad’s entrepreneurial spirit

A historic moment for Pembrokeshire

For those in Pembrokeshire, Angharad’s journey is a point of immense pride. From her early days in Manorbier to becoming the captain of Wales, she is an inspiration to young athletes across the county. Her determination, humility, and skill make her a true role model, not only in Wales but around the world.

As Cymru takes on the Republic of Ireland in tonight’s crucial first leg, Angharad James-Turner’s leadership will be central to their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2025. Whatever the outcome, Pembrokeshire can be proud of one of their own leading the charge for Welsh football at the highest level.

Wales v Ireland – how to follow all the action

Wales v Republic of Ireland (first leg)

29th of November, Cardiff City Stadium. K.O. 19:15pm

Match Of The Day Wales – BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer
Radio Wales Sport and Chwaraeon Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds
Follow all updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

Republic of Ireland v Wales (second leg)

3rd of December, Aviva Stadium. K.O. 19:30pm

Match Of The Day Wales – BBC One Wales, BBC Three and BBC iPlayer
Radio Wales Sport and Chwaraeon Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds
Follow all updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

Sport

Pembrokeshire Knock-Out Cup quarter-final report

Published

5 days ago

November 28, 2024

Herald Sport

HAVERFORDWEST edged out St Davids in a thrilling encounter under the new floodlights at St Davids, advancing to the semi-finals of the Pembrokeshire Knock-Out Cup. The decisive moment came in the second half, with Dylan Williamson crossing for a crucial try in a fiercely contested match that featured five tries, four yellow cards, and relentless effort from both sides.

Match Overview

First Half

Early Advantage for St Davids
St Davids struck early, igniting the scoreboard just three minutes in. Centre Morgan Griffiths broke the line before full-back Iwan Davies dived over in the corner. Bob Froy’s conversion gave the Saints a 7-0 lead, and a subsequent penalty from Froy extended the advantage to 10-0.

The Saints’ early dominance was underpinned by hooker Rhys Price’s control in the scrums and No.8 George Raymond’s powerful carries.

Haverfordwest Respond
Haverfordwest fought back as winger Scott Candler’s elusive run created an opportunity for full-back Matty Phillips to score from close range. Jack Codd added the conversion, cutting the deficit.

Although Codd missed a penalty shortly after, St Davids capitalized with another three points from Froy.

The momentum shifted again when Haverfordwest centre Iestyn Arnold charged down a kick, setting up Candler for his first try. Codd’s conversion handed the visitors a narrow lead at 14-13.

St Davids quickly retaliated. A dominant scrum near the try line allowed Iwan Davies to claim his second try, with Froy converting to restore a 20-14 lead.

As the half neared its conclusion, Haverfordwest’s Jamie Phillips was shown a yellow card for repeated infringements. Despite being a man down, Haverfordwest’s Ioan Hawkridge-Jones broke through to earn a penalty, which Codd converted from 35 metres, leaving St Davids ahead 20-17 at halftime.

Second Half

Physicality Takes Centre Stage
The second half saw a tighter contest, with tempers flaring and scoring opportunities scarce. Froy missed an early penalty for St Davids, and the game descended into a series of physical confrontations. Haverfordwest centre Gabe Thicker and St Davids replacement hooker Chris Cooper were both sin-binned after a heated exchange.

Williamson’s Match-Winning Try
The decisive moment arrived at the hour mark. Arnold broke through St Davids’ defensive line from 40 metres out and expertly offloaded to Dylan Williamson, who finished the move with a vital try. Codd’s conversion pushed Haverfordwest ahead 24-20.

Late Drama
Haverfordwest’s substitutes Terry Lovell and Dan Berry shored up the scrum, allowing the visitors to dominate possession and territory in the closing stages.

In a final twist, St Davids captain Nathan Foster received a yellow card, leaving the Saints with 14 men for the final moments. Despite their spirited efforts to launch a late attack, St Davids couldn’t break through Haverfordwest’s resolute defense.

Haverfordwest now look ahead to the semi-finals, while St Davids exit the competition with their heads held high after pushing their higher-league opponents to the limit.