Sport

Pembrokeshire Schools rugby present county ties

Published

4 years ago

November 17, 2020

PEMBROKESHIRE SCHOOLS RUGBY have presented their under 15’s team with their county tie’s after the season came to a sudden halt when the country was put into lockdown back in March.

Taking to their Facebook page, the organisation said: “Congratulations to the Pembrokeshire Schools Boys U15s from the 2019/20 season who were presented their ties over the last week. We apologise for the delay, as we had hoped to have a more formal event but with current restrictions it was not possible.

“We would like to once again congratulate all the boys on their efforts from last season, for which seems a long time ago now, but will hopefully live long in the memory of coaches and players. We were fortunate to have a strong and diverse cohort of boys this year who showed a lot of ability on the field, as well a positive attitude off it. One thing that really stood out this year was the attitude of boys who were not always involved or selected, but continued to travel, support the team and compete at training. This display of commitment and attitude epitomised the work ethic and unity of the team, one for which as coaches we are truly thankful. Despite the abrupt end of the season, we can undoubtedly categories the year as a great success and delighted to have been a part of the boys’ rugby journey. We hope that the recommencement of rugby is now closer than it is further away, and look forward to seeing the boys progress in the future and staying involved in the game.

“As stated previously the desire and commitment of ALL the boys this year has been unquestionable, however would like to recognise and acknowledge some of the achievements from last year.”

Individual awards presented to players.

Despite a halt to the season – The under 15’s were presented with their county ties

The club Awards and Recognition are as follows;

Players Player – A prestigious award as voted by his peers goes to Macs Page this year. Macs came into the squad whilst at U14s and showed great ability, with his desire to take on defenders and score tries. Macs has evolved his game this last year, playing predominately at full back, with an unmatched ability to kick the ball out of hand as well as off the kicking T and counter attack. Macs continued to score many match defining scores this year and was an exciting player to watch.

Forward of the year – As voted by the coaches forward of the year goes to Alfie Evans-Fecci. The forward pack has been tremendously competitive this year with many able players. However, Alfie in particular has shown great versatility and attitude in make the transition form number 8 to loose head prop with support from his school and county. In addition to this Alfie has continued to make an impact around the field most notable for his strong carries and big hits. We hope he continues to excel in this transition.

Back of the year – As voted by the coaches back of the year goes to Iolo Griffiths. Likewise with the forward pack the competition in the backline has been fierce. Iolo has impressed with his illusive and direct running ball hand, as well his competitiveness and line speed in defense. A notable memory of Iolo has his excellent interception away to Carmarthen School which he received the ball in his own 22 showing great athleticism to score in the oppositions corner. A very talented all round sportsman indeed.

Co-Captains this year – We would like to congratulate both James Price and Rhys Richards for their work as co-captains this year. As many will know the role of captain goes beyond the performances on the field, for which they both excelled on and off the pitch. We have been really impressed with the communication and leadership these boys have shown, which can often go unmissed. We firmly believe the attitude and personality of these boys set a high standard for the rest of the boys to follow and was big contribution to our success last year

RAG honors – Finally we would like to congratulate backrow Jac Delaney on his achievements being involved in the Scarlets West set and later full combined Scarlets U16s squad last year, all a year young. Jac was also involved at U14s and has developed both on and off the field over the last few years, bringing great leadership to the squad and physicality. We hope he continues to develop in this vein and gain further honors.

The club added: “A massive thanks goes to the coaching and school staff who have made last years program possible, ensuring that the boys have the best opportunity on and off the field. We would like to acknowledge that this is voluntary role for all coaches, and we are grateful for their commitment and hope that the boys appreciate it. Thanks to co head coaches Chris Shousha and Steve Martin, Aled Waters, Joe Poole, Morgan Lewis, Gethin Vobe and the school staff of schools who help co-ordinate, develop and forward players.

Ysgol Greenhill School players with their tie’s

“Thanks goes to the parents who have supported the program, we appreciate it is a task to ferry the boys to training and support at games as well as helping cater for some games. You feel the delight and dismay at every score just like us, but have always conducted yourselves in a fine manner and shown positive enthusiasm to support the boys and coaches.

“Thanks also goes to our sponsors; Edwards Bros (Tiers Cross), Tees R us (Haverfordwest), SAW Cymru and The Gourmet Pig. The sponsorship these generous businesses have given is truly invaluable.

“A final thanks goes to Tenby United RFC who played host for the majority of our home fixtures, despite rain, sun or hail the pitch was always in excellent condition and you showed the boys great hospitality and courtesy.

“We imagine some form of rugby will develop in the new year, and encourage the boys to begin to the prepare themselves and to continue to train so, if they aren’t already. We are unsure how the pathway will unfold, but regardless of this we hope to see the boys engaged in the future whether it be at school, club, youth, college or university. We also look forward to welcoming players from Year 10 and 9 whenever that may be when rugby resumes. In the meantime, we hope you all remain safe and well with the build up to Christmas.”

Ysgol Bro Gwaun have paid individual support for their students.

A spokesperson from the school said: “Congratulations to the following boys that received their county ties this week.

“Di awn Jac Delaney, Ethan Sapsford, Dan Page, Bryn Thomas, Dylan Scott and Dan Cleary.

“The boys were part of a successful Pembrokeshire Schools squad that reached the semi finals of the National Morgan Griffiths Plate competition before the season was suspended.

“These young men have also been fantastic role models and ambassadors for rugby in the local community. We wish them all the best in the future on and off the field. “

Sport

Fishguard boxer wins bronze at international championships

Published

1 day ago

November 17, 2024

Herald Sport

A YOUNG Pembrokeshire boxer has achieved international recognition for his prowess in the ring.

Eighteen-year-old Mikey O’Sullivan, from Fishguard, secured a bronze medal in the 55kg class at the World Boxing Organisation World Championships held in Colorado. His remarkable performance included victories against opponents from Kyrgyzstan and Canada before being eliminated by the eventual gold medallist.

O’Sullivan, who trains with Cardigan ABC, was presented with a certificate by former International Boxing Federation featherweight world champion Lee Selby to honour his achievement.

Speaking about his success, O’Sullivan expressed pride in representing his hometown on a global stage, further solidifying his reputation as one of Pembrokeshire’s rising sports stars.

ROYAL NAVY BOXER TRIUMPHS

In another notable achievement, former Cardigan ABC boxer Ceri Glover, 20, from Aberporth, marked his senior 57kg debut for the Royal Navy with an impressive victory.

Glover defeated Tatenda Tapfuma of Titchfield ABC in his first bout since his February win for Cardigan ABC, showcasing his continued dominance in the ring.

Both boxers highlight the growing prominence of Welsh talent in the world of boxing, bringing pride to their communities and clubs.

*Ceri Glover from Aberporth (Image: Cardigan ABC)*

News

2024 Sport Pembrokeshire Awards Finalists announced

Published

2 days ago

November 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE finalists for the 2024 Sport Pembrokeshire Awards have been announced.

In total, 252 nominations were received and, following a selection meeting, the judging panel has named 39 finalists.

Matt Freeman, Manager of Sport Pembrokeshire, said: “I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to provide nominations.

“Every year it gets harder to narrow the nominations down to three finalists and once again the quality of the nominees was enormously high.

“The number and quality of nominees just shows the strength of the sporting scene here in Pembrokeshire.

All the finalists will be invited to a grand presentation ceremony at Folly Farm on Friday, November 29th, where the winners will be announced.

The ceremony will also reveal the winners of two further categories – the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Chairman’s Special Achievement Award.

The awards are organised by Sport Pembrokeshire, Pembrokeshire County Council’s sport development team.

They are sponsored by Sport Pembrokeshire, Valero, Folly Farm and Pure West Radio.

The awards aim to recognise those people who have excelled in sport over the last 12 months, or who have given their time to coaching and organising grass roots sport.

Sport Pembrokeshire Awards 2024 – Finalists

(In alphabetical order)

Coach of the Year

Francesca Morgan (Swimming)

Philippa Gale (Netball)

Tom Richards (Tennis)

Female Sporting Achievement

Gracie Griffiths (Race Walking)

Helen Carrington (Powerlifting)

Seren Thorne (Shooting)

Male Sporting Achievement

Jeremy Cross (Tennis)

Rhys Llewellyn (Athletics)

Sam Coleman (Powerboat Racing)

Boys (U16) Sporting Achievement

Carter Heywood (Football)

Hugo Boyce (Cycling)

Ned Rees-Wigmore (Hockey)

Girls (U16) Sporting Achievement

Cerys Griffiths (Swimming)

Chloe John-Driscoll (Shooting)

Ffion Bowen (Football)

Disability Sport Award

Evelyn Thomas (Powerlifting)

Jules King (Crossfit)

Marc Evans (Cricket)

Junior (U16) Disability Sport Award

Finnley Walters (Boxing)

Jac Johnson (Gymnastics)

Lewis Crawford (Boccia)

Unsung Hero

John Laugharne (Rugby)

Owen Shanklin (Pool)

Sue Christopher (Surf Lifesaving)

Team Achievement of the Year

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

Fishguard & Goodwick Ladies Hockey Club

Pembrokeshire County Bowls Team

Junior (U16) Team Achievement of the Year

Chaos Thunder U12’s Netball Team

Hakin United AFC u16’s

Neyland Yacht Club Junior Sailing Team

Young Volunteer of the Year

Anna May (Tennis & Surfing)

Caitlin Chapman (Netball)

George Richards (Cricket)

Club Organiser

Nadine Tyrrell (Gymnastics)

Nick Shelmerdine (Cricket)

Paul Hudson (Short Mat Bowls)

Club of the Year

Camrose AFC Women & Girls Football

Haverfordwest Gymnastics Club

Strength Academy Wales Cymru

Pictured above: The 2023 Club of the Year winner – Pembroke Cricket Club.

Sport

This week’s Herald local rugby roundup

Published

4 days ago

November 13, 2024

Herald Sport

Preseli Men concede late points to lose basement clash

Gorseinon 33 – Crymych 31

Crymych faced a heartbreaking defeat after leading 31-19 midway through the second half. Despite a promising start and a solid performance, Crymych allowed Gorseinon their first win in seven league starts due to a late try and a successful conversion. Crymych skipper Carwyn Phillips marked his milestone of 250 games with commitment alongside teammates Jon Hill, Iestyn Wood, and Llyr Davies. Osian Davies, Eilir George, and Lee Griffiths all scored tries, with George converting each, securing a 21-12 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Phillips added a bonus-point try, also converted by George, but Gorseinon surged back. Wingers Luke Evans and David Rees, centre Josh Hamer, and flankers Ben Morris and Iestyn Lewis each scored, with Tim O’Reilly’s crucial fourth conversion handing Gorseinon the win.

Premiership Division

Otters hold on to break their duck

Bonymaen 27 – Narberth 29

After six league defeats, Narberth clinched their first win in a nail-biter against fellow strugglers Bonymaen. The Otters built a 29-8 lead with tries from Will Blackburn, Ashley Sutton, and captain Tom Powell, with Jon Rogers converting and adding two more goals. But Bonymaen’s 19-point late surge nearly turned the tables as tries from Nathan Brooks, Andrew Richards, and Garin Williams narrowed the gap.

In the final moments, Narberth showed resilience to hold onto their slim lead, with hooker Tom Clarke earning the man of the match for his relentless work rate.

Division One (West)

14-man Seasiders hold on for a narrow win

Tenby United 17 – Yr Hendy 15

Tenby United preserved their perfect record, edging out Yr Hendy despite playing with 14 men after Lloyd Thomas received a red card early on. Thomas’s ejection forced tactical shifts, with Geraint Jones moving to outside half and Gwion Jones taking over at full back.

Captain Tom Barrass scored Tenby’s try after a turnover, with Geraint Jones adding a penalty for an 11-3 halftime lead. Yr Hendy’s Tyler Payne landed four penalties in the second half, but Tenby maintained their defensive discipline, securing a narrow 17-15 victory with man of the match Gethin Bradney leading with tackles.

Division Two (West)

Borderers bag deserved win

Nantgaredig 20 – Whitland 25

Whitland fought back from a 3-10 deficit to overcome Nantgaredig in a hard-fought match. After an extended break for an injury and a field switch, Whitland’s pack took control in the second half, with tries from Rhys Nicholas, Owyn Griffiths, Jack Mason, and Johnny Thomas, who also added a penalty.

Despite three tries from Nantgaredig’s Mark Williams, Lloyd Williams, and Aled Beynon, Whitland maintained their lead, showing consistency in both forwards and backs for a solid team performance.

Division Three (West)

Codd stars as Blues fend off Pontyberem

Pontyberem 13 – Haverfordwest 23

Haverfordwest centre Jack Codd’s 13 points helped his team overcome Pontyberem, who were still seeking their first win. Pontyberem took an early 10-0 lead, but Haverfordwest responded, with strong contributions from pack players Jonathan Mason, Mike Phillips, and captain Karl Busch. Rhodri Lewis opened the scoring for Pontyberem, but Codd’s accurate kicking sealed the win.

Division Four (West) A

James leads Saints to derby success

St Davids 31 – Llangwm 18

Will James shone for St Davids, scoring twice as they defeated local rivals Llangwm in challenging damp, cold conditions. Despite a strong start from Llangwm with an early try from Morgan Rees, St Davids struck back through James, who capitalized on a pass from Will Savage. Further tries from Nathan Foster and Iwan Davies extended the lead, with St Davids up 21-13 at halftime.

In the second half, Callum Jenkins scored for Llangwm, but James added his second try, and Zac Morgan secured St Davids’ fifth, sealing their 31-18 victory in this well-supported derby.

Bulls win at Bierspool

Pembroke Dock Harlequins 12 – Teirw Crymych 22

Teirw Crymych edged out Pembroke Dock Harlequins at Bierspool for their fourth win, with tries from Hedd George and Sean Wilson building a 12-0 lead. The Harlequins responded through Craig Barnett, but a late try and conversion from Adam Phillips sealed Crymych’s win, taking the margin just beyond a bonus-point range for the hosts.

Scarlets outlast Dreigiau Emlyn in thriller

Pembroke 36 – Dreigiau Emlyn 32

Pembroke pulled off a thrilling win at Crickmarren with six tries, including scores by Weatherall, Edwards, and Luke Hartland. Veteran forwards Brayford, Wiseman, and Palmer controlled the set pieces, while Dreigiau Emlyn countered with five tries of their own. Despite Emlyn’s persistence, Pembroke’s disciplined play earned them a narrow 36-32 win.