PRESS RELEASE FROM WELSH RUGBY UNION
Issued 30 November, 2009
Wales and Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees is likely to require surgery on the groin tear which saw him carried off on a stretcher against Australia at the Millennium Stadium last Saturday in the final clash of the Invesco Perpetual Series of 2009.
Ospreys wing Shane Williams, who withdrew with a hamstring injury early in the first half, will not require surgery but will be in rehabilitation for a period of four to six weeks.
Squad captain Ryan Jones should be back in training this week after a back injury forced him to watch from the sidelines at the weekend and Leigh Halfpenny has joined the Baa-Baas squad still undergoing treatment for a dead leg.
"It is unclear at the moment as to the extent of Matthew's problem and we are currently in consultation with specialists but it is fair to say there is a strong likelihood that he will be requiring surgery and we will know more once that surgery has been undertaken," said Wales team physio Mark Davies.
"With Shane things are a little clearer, he has a grade two tear to his hamstring and will be out of action for four to six weeks undergoing treatment and rehab.
"Ryan will link back up with the Ospreys this week and should be taking some part in training and conditioning but will obviously be managed by his region. Leigh has reported for Baa-Baas duty and will receive treatment during the course of the week which should improve his situation."
For further information please contact Simon RimmerNational Squad Communications Manager
WRU Centre of Excellence, Vale Resort, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JYEmail: srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel: 01443 238 255
Fax: 01443 238 386
30.11.09
29.11.09
29.11.09. Wales women crush Sweden
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 28 November 2009
Swedes crushed by Welsh onslaught
The peerless Non Evans amassed 21 points as Wales sauntered over for nine tries in a 56-7 thrashing of Sweden at St Helens this afternoon.
The full back has been playing international rugby for more than a decade but the Swedes will be glad to see the back of her after she gave a vintage performance - racing over for two tries and constantly being a threat with the ball in hand.
Caryl James crossed for two tries on debut while Awen Thomas completed the rout with a late brace to put Sweden out of their misery.
Wales led 27-7 at the break courtesy of four first half tries and were always in control against stubborn but limited opposition.
Wales opened the scoring with a relatively straight forward penalty via Non Evans's trusty boot. Sweden then ventured into Welsh territory briefly before Mel Berry's side struck in the 10th minute with a well constructed try by second row Gemma Hallett.
Backs and forwards combined with more style than Gok Wan with new cap Elinor Snowsill, Berry and Caryl James prominent in the build up. Once the ball got to Hallett five metres from the line, the Pontyclun powerhouse surged over. Non Evans added the extras to give Wales a 10-0 lead.
Sweden then got back into the game from a lineout close to the Welsh try-line. Skipper Ulrika Anderson Hall spotted a gap and sped over, under the posts. Her conversion reduced Wales's lead to three points.
Wales repelled further assaults from the Swedes to further extend their lead in the 24th minute. The ball was worked to winger Caryl James who scorched down the touchline, bouncing off would-be tacklers to dive over for her first try at international level in her Test bow.
Wales then produced a purple patch just before the break to assert their authority. First Evans was on the shoulder of fly half Elinor Snowsill who made the initial thrust. Evans still had some work to do but she bumped off several tacklers to go clear.
Three minutes later Louise Rickard then finished off strongly in the opposite corner as Wales whipped the ball swiftly through the backline. Evans's touchline conversion gave Wales a comfortable 27-7 lead at halftime.
A combination of stubborn Swedish defence and the inability to be capitalise on the lion's share of possession ensured the second half took some time to take off for Wales but three tries in quick succession put the issue beyond doubt.
Replacement winger Aimee Young powered her way over out wide after prop Catrin Edwards took a quick tap to unnerve the Swedish defence. The ball was spun through the backs where Young used her strength to surge over.
Young was to the fore again, cutting through the defence like a hot knife through butter. She beat three defenders before unselfishly off-loading to Evans who strolled over for her second try.
Replacement flyhalf Awen Thomas then darted over from close range and with Evans adding the conversion, Wales were leading 46-7. Thomas hammered home the final nail into the Swedish coffin when she crashed over in the last act of the game.
Scorers: Wales: Tries: Gemma Hallett, Caryl James (2), Non Evans (2), Louise Rickard, Aimee Young, Awen Thomas (2); Cons: Non Evans (4) Pen: Evans
Sweden: Try: Ulrika Anderson Hall; Con: Ulrika Anderson Hall.
For any further information, contact Graeme Gillespie on 07740612790.
Issued: 28 November 2009
Swedes crushed by Welsh onslaught
The peerless Non Evans amassed 21 points as Wales sauntered over for nine tries in a 56-7 thrashing of Sweden at St Helens this afternoon.
The full back has been playing international rugby for more than a decade but the Swedes will be glad to see the back of her after she gave a vintage performance - racing over for two tries and constantly being a threat with the ball in hand.
Caryl James crossed for two tries on debut while Awen Thomas completed the rout with a late brace to put Sweden out of their misery.
Wales led 27-7 at the break courtesy of four first half tries and were always in control against stubborn but limited opposition.
Wales opened the scoring with a relatively straight forward penalty via Non Evans's trusty boot. Sweden then ventured into Welsh territory briefly before Mel Berry's side struck in the 10th minute with a well constructed try by second row Gemma Hallett.
Backs and forwards combined with more style than Gok Wan with new cap Elinor Snowsill, Berry and Caryl James prominent in the build up. Once the ball got to Hallett five metres from the line, the Pontyclun powerhouse surged over. Non Evans added the extras to give Wales a 10-0 lead.
Sweden then got back into the game from a lineout close to the Welsh try-line. Skipper Ulrika Anderson Hall spotted a gap and sped over, under the posts. Her conversion reduced Wales's lead to three points.
Wales repelled further assaults from the Swedes to further extend their lead in the 24th minute. The ball was worked to winger Caryl James who scorched down the touchline, bouncing off would-be tacklers to dive over for her first try at international level in her Test bow.
Wales then produced a purple patch just before the break to assert their authority. First Evans was on the shoulder of fly half Elinor Snowsill who made the initial thrust. Evans still had some work to do but she bumped off several tacklers to go clear.
Three minutes later Louise Rickard then finished off strongly in the opposite corner as Wales whipped the ball swiftly through the backline. Evans's touchline conversion gave Wales a comfortable 27-7 lead at halftime.
A combination of stubborn Swedish defence and the inability to be capitalise on the lion's share of possession ensured the second half took some time to take off for Wales but three tries in quick succession put the issue beyond doubt.
Replacement winger Aimee Young powered her way over out wide after prop Catrin Edwards took a quick tap to unnerve the Swedish defence. The ball was spun through the backs where Young used her strength to surge over.
Young was to the fore again, cutting through the defence like a hot knife through butter. She beat three defenders before unselfishly off-loading to Evans who strolled over for her second try.
Replacement flyhalf Awen Thomas then darted over from close range and with Evans adding the conversion, Wales were leading 46-7. Thomas hammered home the final nail into the Swedish coffin when she crashed over in the last act of the game.
Scorers: Wales: Tries: Gemma Hallett, Caryl James (2), Non Evans (2), Louise Rickard, Aimee Young, Awen Thomas (2); Cons: Non Evans (4) Pen: Evans
Sweden: Try: Ulrika Anderson Hall; Con: Ulrika Anderson Hall.
For any further information, contact Graeme Gillespie on 07740612790.
27.11.09
27.11.09. Ryan Jones out of Wales team
PRESS RELEASE FROM WELSH RUGBY UNION:
Issued 27 November, 2009
Ryan Jones has withdrawn from the Wales side to take on Australia in the Invesco Perpetual Series climax at the Millennium Stadium tomorrow (kick-off 5.15pm).
Gethin Jenkins will captain the team and Jones is replaced at No8 by Andy Powell, who moves across the back row, with Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate promoted from the bench to the blindside to win his second cap.
Lydiate's place as a replacement is taken up by Sam Warburton, who faces the prospect of tackling the Wallabies for the second time in a week after representing the Cardiff Blues against their midweek touring side on Tuesday.
"Ryan pulled up in Tuesday's conditioning session with a back problem," said Wales physio Mark Davies.
"This obviously needed time to settle and unfortunately the problem has not resolved in time for him to be available on Saturday.
"He has been receiving treatment and was unable to train yesterday, but today we have taken the decision that he is simply not going to be ready to take the field."
Issued 27 November, 2009
Ryan Jones has withdrawn from the Wales side to take on Australia in the Invesco Perpetual Series climax at the Millennium Stadium tomorrow (kick-off 5.15pm).
Gethin Jenkins will captain the team and Jones is replaced at No8 by Andy Powell, who moves across the back row, with Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate promoted from the bench to the blindside to win his second cap.
Lydiate's place as a replacement is taken up by Sam Warburton, who faces the prospect of tackling the Wallabies for the second time in a week after representing the Cardiff Blues against their midweek touring side on Tuesday.
"Ryan pulled up in Tuesday's conditioning session with a back problem," said Wales physio Mark Davies.
"This obviously needed time to settle and unfortunately the problem has not resolved in time for him to be available on Saturday.
"He has been receiving treatment and was unable to train yesterday, but today we have taken the decision that he is simply not going to be ready to take the field."
26.11.09
26.11.09 Wales Sevens Squad for Dubai
FRESH CHALLENGE FOR SEVENS SQUAD
Issued 26 November, 2009
Wales Sevens head coach Paul John has announced a new-look squad for the first IRB Sevens World Series tournaments of the season in Dubai (Dec 5 - 7) and George, South Africa (Dec 11 - 12).
Only captain Chris Davies (Aberavon), Newport's Craig Hill, Cross Keys flanker Jevon Groves and Llandovery flyer Ifan Evans have previous international Sevens experience, with Hill the only member of Wales' Rugby World Cup Sevens winning squad set to return to Dubai. All four are contracted WRU core Sevens players, as are uncapped trio Chris Morgan (Aberavon), Nicky Thomas (Swansea) and Lloyd Wiliams (Blues).
Ospreys youngsters Ashley Beck and Justin Tipuric, Cardiff outside half Gareth Davies, Scarlets Academy scrum half Lee Rees and UWIC's Alex Cuthbert have been added to the squad for these two legs of the Series.
Wales have a tough draw at next week's Dubai tournament, with last year's Series winners South Africa, Australia and Arabian Gulf their Pool opponents.
John said, "Following our success at the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai, a lot of our squad have gone on to secure new professional contracts in the fifteen a side game, which is a positive result of the win, and we have taken the opportunity to bring in some new players into the squad so it's a fresh start in lots of ways.
"The WRU has introduced core contracts for Sevens players which is hugely positive for us. It means we are able to achieve a consistency of selection that we have never had before. As a full time member of staff I also have more time to work on preparation, analysis and coaching with the players.
"Ashley Beck, Justin Tipuric and Nicky Thomas have already played some Regional rugby this season but Sevens is a key development tool for us as a Union and we hope players like these will gain a huge amount in skill levels, experience and confidence from international Sevens which will serve them well in the professional game. Gareth Davies and Lee Rees have been playing exceptionally well in the Principality Premiership and Alex Cuthbert has played quite a bit on the invitational Sevens circuit.
"Chris (Davies) has been selected as captain for these tournaments. He has a terrific work ethic and we believe he will lead by example."
Despite the tough draw, John is buoyed by his side's preparation for the season ahead.
"We recently played in a training tournament in France, where we played France, Scotland, a Moroccan side and an Argentinean team. We played five games and managed to pip Scotland in the final to win the tournament. That was the first time we've been able to play some competitive rugby before the Sevens season kicks off, so it was great for us. It means the new players have some matches under their belt before Dubai. We usually start the season slowly due to lack of playing and training time but hopefully that experience will help us this time around.
"We have a tough pool with last year's champions, South Africa, Australia, who we failed to beat in a number of meetings last season and the Arabian Gulf so we just want the players to play to their potential and the aim, as it was in the world cup, will be to try and get out of the pool and go from there. That will be the aim throughout the season - to try and get into more Cup quarter-finals and move up the IRB rankings.
"It will be a steep learning curve for our squad and while they are a very talented group of boys, they may take a while to gel.
"Dubai is a fantastic competition, there is a huge Welsh contingency in the crowd and I'm sure our players will grow through the tournament."
Wales Sevens squad for Dubai and George:
Chris Davies (capt, Aberavon), Lee Rees (Scarlets Academy), Chris Morgan (Aberavon), Gareth Davies (Cardiff), Nicky Thomas (Swansea), Lloyd Williams (Blues), Ashley Beck (Ospreys), Ifan Evans (Llandovery), Craig Hill (Newport), Alex Cuthbert (UWIC), Justin Tipuric (Ospreys), Jevon Groves (Cross Keys)
For further information, contact Liz Jones, WRU communications manager, tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
ends
Issued 26 November, 2009
Wales Sevens head coach Paul John has announced a new-look squad for the first IRB Sevens World Series tournaments of the season in Dubai (Dec 5 - 7) and George, South Africa (Dec 11 - 12).
Only captain Chris Davies (Aberavon), Newport's Craig Hill, Cross Keys flanker Jevon Groves and Llandovery flyer Ifan Evans have previous international Sevens experience, with Hill the only member of Wales' Rugby World Cup Sevens winning squad set to return to Dubai. All four are contracted WRU core Sevens players, as are uncapped trio Chris Morgan (Aberavon), Nicky Thomas (Swansea) and Lloyd Wiliams (Blues).
Ospreys youngsters Ashley Beck and Justin Tipuric, Cardiff outside half Gareth Davies, Scarlets Academy scrum half Lee Rees and UWIC's Alex Cuthbert have been added to the squad for these two legs of the Series.
Wales have a tough draw at next week's Dubai tournament, with last year's Series winners South Africa, Australia and Arabian Gulf their Pool opponents.
John said, "Following our success at the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai, a lot of our squad have gone on to secure new professional contracts in the fifteen a side game, which is a positive result of the win, and we have taken the opportunity to bring in some new players into the squad so it's a fresh start in lots of ways.
"The WRU has introduced core contracts for Sevens players which is hugely positive for us. It means we are able to achieve a consistency of selection that we have never had before. As a full time member of staff I also have more time to work on preparation, analysis and coaching with the players.
"Ashley Beck, Justin Tipuric and Nicky Thomas have already played some Regional rugby this season but Sevens is a key development tool for us as a Union and we hope players like these will gain a huge amount in skill levels, experience and confidence from international Sevens which will serve them well in the professional game. Gareth Davies and Lee Rees have been playing exceptionally well in the Principality Premiership and Alex Cuthbert has played quite a bit on the invitational Sevens circuit.
"Chris (Davies) has been selected as captain for these tournaments. He has a terrific work ethic and we believe he will lead by example."
Despite the tough draw, John is buoyed by his side's preparation for the season ahead.
"We recently played in a training tournament in France, where we played France, Scotland, a Moroccan side and an Argentinean team. We played five games and managed to pip Scotland in the final to win the tournament. That was the first time we've been able to play some competitive rugby before the Sevens season kicks off, so it was great for us. It means the new players have some matches under their belt before Dubai. We usually start the season slowly due to lack of playing and training time but hopefully that experience will help us this time around.
"We have a tough pool with last year's champions, South Africa, Australia, who we failed to beat in a number of meetings last season and the Arabian Gulf so we just want the players to play to their potential and the aim, as it was in the world cup, will be to try and get out of the pool and go from there. That will be the aim throughout the season - to try and get into more Cup quarter-finals and move up the IRB rankings.
"It will be a steep learning curve for our squad and while they are a very talented group of boys, they may take a while to gel.
"Dubai is a fantastic competition, there is a huge Welsh contingency in the crowd and I'm sure our players will grow through the tournament."
Wales Sevens squad for Dubai and George:
Chris Davies (capt, Aberavon), Lee Rees (Scarlets Academy), Chris Morgan (Aberavon), Gareth Davies (Cardiff), Nicky Thomas (Swansea), Lloyd Williams (Blues), Ashley Beck (Ospreys), Ifan Evans (Llandovery), Craig Hill (Newport), Alex Cuthbert (UWIC), Justin Tipuric (Ospreys), Jevon Groves (Cross Keys)
For further information, contact Liz Jones, WRU communications manager, tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
ends
24.11.09
24.11. 09 Wales Team Announced
PRESS RELEASE FROM WELSH RUGBY UNION
Issued 24 November, 2009
GATLAND STICKS TO HIS GUNS
Dwayne Peel will start at scrum half for Wales in the Invesco Perpetual Series 09 climax against Australia at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday (kick-of 5.15pm) in the solitary change to the starting line-up from the side which recorded a 33-16 victory over Argentina last week.
The 71-times capped former national captain replaces Cardiff Blues' Gareth Cooper, who has been handed the chance to face the touring Wallabies wearing his regional colours this evening (Tuesday). Scarlets scrum half Martin Roberts takes up Peel's position on the bench in the only other change to the match day 22 which downed the Pumas.
Ryan Jones becomes only the fifth player, in 127 captains, to lead his country for the 20th time and elsewhere Jonathan Thomas is poised to make his 50th international appearance should he be utilised from the bench.
Head coach Warren Gatland's message is clear as he says 'same again' to the forward pack which saw off the Pumas and retains the bulk of the creative backline which crossed for three tries last time out as he attempts to retain the James Bevan Trophy.
"We were pretty pleased with the performance against Argentina, we matched them up front, our defence held up well and we are starting to show a more clinical edge in attack," said Gatland.
"Dwayne comes into the side in a straight swap for Gareth, allowing two Welsh scrum halves a shot at the Wallabies in the space of a week and ensuring both players have the chance to benefit from the experience.
"That decision is primarily about putting the interests of the player and of Welsh regional rugby first, but elsewhere we are looking for the same again from the bulk of the side who beat the 2007 World Cup semi-finalists.
"There is still improvement left in us and we feel we need to go up a couple more gears if we are to achieve what we want against Australia, but we are coming to the end of the Series and the players feel they are starting to get into their stride.
"The level of performance is improving throughout the squad as we spend more and more time together and we hope to get a little nearer the peak of our powers at the weekend."
Wales' record against Australia shows two wins, a draw and three losses in the last six meetings and although Gatland is no slave to the history books he does concede his side enjoy playing the Wallabies.
"They will be gunning for us but this Wales squad hasn't feared Australia, has had some success in recent history and enjoys playing them in what are always tough encounters," said Gatland.
"The Wallabies were incredibly unlucky last weekend and they won't want a repeat of that losing experience in Cardiff. They may be coming to the end of a long and gruelling tour, but they won't allow themselves to have one eye on that plane back to the Australian summer, until they have thrown everything at us and emptied the tank at the Millennium Stadium.
"They are one of the top three teams in world rugby and we have no right to expect anything other than the sternest of tests - both physically and mentally - on Saturday, but we feel we are up to it."
WALES: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Shane Williams; Stephen Jones, Dwayne Peel; Gethin Jenkins, Matthew Rees, Paul James, Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Andy Powell, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones (captain).
Replacements: Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Jonathan Thomas, Dan Lydiate, Martin Roberts, Andrew Bishop, Tom James
Issued 24 November, 2009
GATLAND STICKS TO HIS GUNS
Dwayne Peel will start at scrum half for Wales in the Invesco Perpetual Series 09 climax against Australia at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday (kick-of 5.15pm) in the solitary change to the starting line-up from the side which recorded a 33-16 victory over Argentina last week.
The 71-times capped former national captain replaces Cardiff Blues' Gareth Cooper, who has been handed the chance to face the touring Wallabies wearing his regional colours this evening (Tuesday). Scarlets scrum half Martin Roberts takes up Peel's position on the bench in the only other change to the match day 22 which downed the Pumas.
Ryan Jones becomes only the fifth player, in 127 captains, to lead his country for the 20th time and elsewhere Jonathan Thomas is poised to make his 50th international appearance should he be utilised from the bench.
Head coach Warren Gatland's message is clear as he says 'same again' to the forward pack which saw off the Pumas and retains the bulk of the creative backline which crossed for three tries last time out as he attempts to retain the James Bevan Trophy.
"We were pretty pleased with the performance against Argentina, we matched them up front, our defence held up well and we are starting to show a more clinical edge in attack," said Gatland.
"Dwayne comes into the side in a straight swap for Gareth, allowing two Welsh scrum halves a shot at the Wallabies in the space of a week and ensuring both players have the chance to benefit from the experience.
"That decision is primarily about putting the interests of the player and of Welsh regional rugby first, but elsewhere we are looking for the same again from the bulk of the side who beat the 2007 World Cup semi-finalists.
"There is still improvement left in us and we feel we need to go up a couple more gears if we are to achieve what we want against Australia, but we are coming to the end of the Series and the players feel they are starting to get into their stride.
"The level of performance is improving throughout the squad as we spend more and more time together and we hope to get a little nearer the peak of our powers at the weekend."
Wales' record against Australia shows two wins, a draw and three losses in the last six meetings and although Gatland is no slave to the history books he does concede his side enjoy playing the Wallabies.
"They will be gunning for us but this Wales squad hasn't feared Australia, has had some success in recent history and enjoys playing them in what are always tough encounters," said Gatland.
"The Wallabies were incredibly unlucky last weekend and they won't want a repeat of that losing experience in Cardiff. They may be coming to the end of a long and gruelling tour, but they won't allow themselves to have one eye on that plane back to the Australian summer, until they have thrown everything at us and emptied the tank at the Millennium Stadium.
"They are one of the top three teams in world rugby and we have no right to expect anything other than the sternest of tests - both physically and mentally - on Saturday, but we feel we are up to it."
WALES: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Shane Williams; Stephen Jones, Dwayne Peel; Gethin Jenkins, Matthew Rees, Paul James, Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Andy Powell, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones (captain).
Replacements: Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Jonathan Thomas, Dan Lydiate, Martin Roberts, Andrew Bishop, Tom James
20.11.09
20.11.09 Late changes for Wales
PRESS RELEASE FROM WELSH RUGBY UNION
Issued: 19 November, 2009
Wales and Cardiff Blues second row forward Bradley Davies has withdrawn from the squad to face Argentina in the Invesco Perpetual Series clash at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday (Kick-off 2.30pm) with an ankle injury.
Davies picked up the injury during training at the Welsh Rugby Union National Centre of Excellence on Tuesday and he will be replaced on the bench on match day by Ospreys forward Jonathan Thomas.
Also withdrawn from the squad this week is Scarlets back Morgan Stoddart, who has picked up a hamstring tear which will see him in rehabilitation for up to four weeks.
"Bradley suffered a ligament sprain to his ankle during training on Tuesday and subsequently has been pulled out of the match against the Pumas this weekend," said Wales physiotherapist Mark Davies.
"He will remain in camp and his progress will be reviewed early next week before a final assessment is made.
"Morgan has a grade two tear to his hamstring and he will now be in recovery and rehab for a period of up to four weeks."
The Wales management team will take a decision on whether or not to call any further personnel into the Invesco Perpetual Series squad early next week.
Jonathan THOMAS (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,013)
DoB: 27.12.82. 6'5" / 1.96m. 17st 5lbs / 110kgs
International record: 48 caps (W 24, L 22, D 2; 35 pts - 7T)
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
Issued: 19 November, 2009
Wales and Cardiff Blues second row forward Bradley Davies has withdrawn from the squad to face Argentina in the Invesco Perpetual Series clash at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday (Kick-off 2.30pm) with an ankle injury.
Davies picked up the injury during training at the Welsh Rugby Union National Centre of Excellence on Tuesday and he will be replaced on the bench on match day by Ospreys forward Jonathan Thomas.
Also withdrawn from the squad this week is Scarlets back Morgan Stoddart, who has picked up a hamstring tear which will see him in rehabilitation for up to four weeks.
"Bradley suffered a ligament sprain to his ankle during training on Tuesday and subsequently has been pulled out of the match against the Pumas this weekend," said Wales physiotherapist Mark Davies.
"He will remain in camp and his progress will be reviewed early next week before a final assessment is made.
"Morgan has a grade two tear to his hamstring and he will now be in recovery and rehab for a period of up to four weeks."
The Wales management team will take a decision on whether or not to call any further personnel into the Invesco Perpetual Series squad early next week.
Jonathan THOMAS (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,013)
DoB: 27.12.82. 6'5" / 1.96m. 17st 5lbs / 110kgs
International record: 48 caps (W 24, L 22, D 2; 35 pts - 7T)
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
17.11.09
17.11.09 Wales Team to face Argentina
PRESS RELEASE FROM WELSH RUGBY UNION
Issued: Tuesday, 17 November, 2009
Wales coach Warren Gatland has handed Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies his first Millennium Stadium start for the visit of Argentina in the Invesco Perpetual Series clash on Saturday (Kick-off 2.30pm).
The facial injury suffered by Tom Shanklin in the victory over Samoa gives Davies his chance with Gatland otherwise reverting to the starting line-up chosen to face New Zealand in the Series opener a fortnight ago.
And in a positional switch Blues centre Jamie Roberts moves to outside centre to accommodate Davies at No 12.
In forward changes from the team who beat Samoa Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees replaces Osprey Huw Bennett and Blues flanker Martyn Williams returns for regional team-mate Sam Warburton, with Bennett providing cover from the bench.
In the backs Ospreys wing Shane Williams, Scarlets fly-half Stephen Jones and Blues scrum-half Gareth Cooper all return for Tom James (Blues), Dan Biggar (Ospreys) and Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks) respectively, with Biggar the only one of the three not included as a replacement.
Uncapped Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate gets his first chance of the campaign joining Ospreys prop Duncan Jones and Blues second row Bradley Davies in providing bench cover for the forwards and Ospreys centre Andrew Bishop, called in to train with the squad on Monday after Shanklin's injury was confirmed, completes the 22 to face the Pumas.
"Jonathan came on at inside centre on Friday (against Samoa) when Tom (Shanklin) was injured and he acquitted himself well," said Gatland.
"That's his natural position, he plays there for his region and is comfortable there. Jamie is the more experienced player and more than capable of playing at 13 and we are looking forward to the continuation of the partnership from the second half last weekend.
"With James Hook going so well at full-back it was important for us to continue his international development in that position."
Wales face a Pumas side ranked consistently higher in the IRB World rankings in the last 12 months - only in February, March and June did Wales temporarily go ahead before Argentina reclaimed the superior position - and who currently lie one place higher at seventh.
Attendance for the heavyweight clash, which has seen Welsh sides win seven times in 11 attempts, has already surpassed the 50,000 mark as Gatland prepares his men for battle on a brand new Millennium Stadium surface.
Gatland, who has rotated his bench with the aim of giving everyone in his small squad game-time, added:
"Dan (Lydiate) has impressed in training, we have selected a small squad and he is the only one who has not been involved so far, so we felt it was important for his development that he gets the opportunity to win his first cap and put what he has learnt into practice."
WALES: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Shane Williams; Stephen Jones, Gareth Cooper; Gethin Jenkins, Matthew Rees, Paul James, Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Andy Powell, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones (Captain)
REPLACEMENTS: Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Bradley Davies, Dan Lydiate, Dwayne Peel, Andrew Bishop, Tom James
WALES v ARGENTINA
15 James HOOK (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,047)
DoB: 27.06.85. 6'0" / 1.83m. 14st 12lbs / 94kgs
International record: 35 caps (W 15, L 19, D 1; 209 pts - 6T,34C,35PG,2DG)
14 Leigh HALFPENNY (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,060)
DoB: 22.12.88. 5'10" / 1.77m. 13st 1lb / 83kgs
International record: 8 caps (W 4, L 4; 34 pts - 5T, 3PG)
13 Jamie ROBERTS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,057)
DoB: 08.11.86. 6'4" / 1.93m. 16st 10lbs / 107kgs
International record: 14 caps (W 7, L 7; 5 pts - 1T)
12 Jonathan DAVIES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,066)
DoB: 05.04.88. 6'1" / 1.86m. 16st 3lbs / 103kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 3; 10 pts - 2T)
11 Shane WILLIAMS (OSPREYS - Cap No 976)
DoB: 26.02.77. 5'7" / 1.71m. 12st 13lbs / 82kgs
International record: 66 caps (W 32, L 32, D 2; 230 pts - 46T)
10 Stephen JONES (SCARLETS - Cap No 966)
DoB: 08.12.77. 6'1" / 1.86m. 14st 12lbs / 94kgs
International record: 81 caps (W36, L43, D2; 705 pts - 6T,117C,142PG,5DG)
9 Gareth COOPER (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 985)
DoB: 07.05.79. 5'7" / 1.71m. 13st 6lbs / 85kgs
International record: 43 caps (W 20, L 23; 45 pts - 9T)
1 Gethin JENKINS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,006)
DoB: 17.11.80. 6'2" / 1.88m. 18st 13lbs / 120kgs
International record: 70 caps (W 30, L 38, D 2; 15 pts - 3T)
2 Matthew REES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,033)
DoB: 09.12.80. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 1lbs / 108kgs
International record: 32 caps (W 15, L 16, D 1; 10 pts - 2T)
3 Paul JAMES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,021)
DoB: 13.05.82. 6'1" / 1.86m. 17st 7lbs / 111kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 2, L 1)
4 Alun-Wyn JONES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,046)
DoB: 19.09.85. 6'5" / 1.96m. 19st 1lbs / 121kgs
International record: 33 caps (W 14, L 19; 20 pts - 4T)
5 Luke CHARTERIS (NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS - Cap No 1,030)
DoB: 09.03.83. 6'9" / 2.06m. 19st 9lbs / 125kgs
International record: 16 caps (W 9, L 7)
6 Andy POWELL (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,061)
DoB: 23.08.81. 6'4" / 1.94m. 17st 6lbs / 111kgs
International record: 10 caps (W 6, L 4)
7 Martyn WILLIAMS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 944)
DoB: 01.09.75. 6'0" / 1.83m. 15st 11lbs / 100kgs
International record: 89 caps (W 41, L 45, D 3; 73 pts - 14T, 1DG)
8 Ryan JONES (OSPREYS, CAPTAIN - Cap No 1,029)
DoB: 13.03.81. 6'5" / 1.96m. 18st 0lbs / 114kgs
International record: 35 caps (W 20, L 14, D 1; 5 pts - 1T)
REPLACEMENTS
16 Huw BENNETT (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,017)
DoB: 11.06.83. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 0lbs / 108kgs
International record: 25 caps (W 15, L 10)
17 Duncan JONES (OSPREYS - Cap No 997)
DoB: 18.09.78. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 8lbs / 112kgs
International record: 55 caps (W 25, L 28, D 2)
18 Bradley DAVIES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,065)
DoB: 09.01.87. 6'6" / 1.98m. 18st 1lb / 115kgs
International record: 5 caps (W 4, L 1)
19 Dan LYDIATE (NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS)
DoB: 18.12.87. 1.93m / 6'4". 15st 13lbs / 101kgs
International record: Uncapped
20 Dwayne PEEL (SALE SHARKS - Cap No 994)
DoB: 31.08.81. 5'9" / 1.76m. 13st 8lbs / 86kgs
International record: 70 caps (W 33, L 35, D 2; 25 pts - 5T)
21 Andrew BISHOP (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,059)
DoB: 07.08.85. 6'0" / 1.83m. 15st 0lbs / 95kgs
International record: 6 caps (W 5, L 1)
22 Tom JAMES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,055)
DoB: 17.04.87. 6'2" / 1.88m. 15st 1lb / 96kgs
International record: 6 caps (W 3, L 3; 10 pts - 2T)
For further information please contact:
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
ENDS
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
© 2009 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use
Issued: Tuesday, 17 November, 2009
Wales coach Warren Gatland has handed Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies his first Millennium Stadium start for the visit of Argentina in the Invesco Perpetual Series clash on Saturday (Kick-off 2.30pm).
The facial injury suffered by Tom Shanklin in the victory over Samoa gives Davies his chance with Gatland otherwise reverting to the starting line-up chosen to face New Zealand in the Series opener a fortnight ago.
And in a positional switch Blues centre Jamie Roberts moves to outside centre to accommodate Davies at No 12.
In forward changes from the team who beat Samoa Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees replaces Osprey Huw Bennett and Blues flanker Martyn Williams returns for regional team-mate Sam Warburton, with Bennett providing cover from the bench.
In the backs Ospreys wing Shane Williams, Scarlets fly-half Stephen Jones and Blues scrum-half Gareth Cooper all return for Tom James (Blues), Dan Biggar (Ospreys) and Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks) respectively, with Biggar the only one of the three not included as a replacement.
Uncapped Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate gets his first chance of the campaign joining Ospreys prop Duncan Jones and Blues second row Bradley Davies in providing bench cover for the forwards and Ospreys centre Andrew Bishop, called in to train with the squad on Monday after Shanklin's injury was confirmed, completes the 22 to face the Pumas.
"Jonathan came on at inside centre on Friday (against Samoa) when Tom (Shanklin) was injured and he acquitted himself well," said Gatland.
"That's his natural position, he plays there for his region and is comfortable there. Jamie is the more experienced player and more than capable of playing at 13 and we are looking forward to the continuation of the partnership from the second half last weekend.
"With James Hook going so well at full-back it was important for us to continue his international development in that position."
Wales face a Pumas side ranked consistently higher in the IRB World rankings in the last 12 months - only in February, March and June did Wales temporarily go ahead before Argentina reclaimed the superior position - and who currently lie one place higher at seventh.
Attendance for the heavyweight clash, which has seen Welsh sides win seven times in 11 attempts, has already surpassed the 50,000 mark as Gatland prepares his men for battle on a brand new Millennium Stadium surface.
Gatland, who has rotated his bench with the aim of giving everyone in his small squad game-time, added:
"Dan (Lydiate) has impressed in training, we have selected a small squad and he is the only one who has not been involved so far, so we felt it was important for his development that he gets the opportunity to win his first cap and put what he has learnt into practice."
WALES: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Shane Williams; Stephen Jones, Gareth Cooper; Gethin Jenkins, Matthew Rees, Paul James, Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Andy Powell, Martyn Williams, Ryan Jones (Captain)
REPLACEMENTS: Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Bradley Davies, Dan Lydiate, Dwayne Peel, Andrew Bishop, Tom James
WALES v ARGENTINA
15 James HOOK (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,047)
DoB: 27.06.85. 6'0" / 1.83m. 14st 12lbs / 94kgs
International record: 35 caps (W 15, L 19, D 1; 209 pts - 6T,34C,35PG,2DG)
14 Leigh HALFPENNY (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,060)
DoB: 22.12.88. 5'10" / 1.77m. 13st 1lb / 83kgs
International record: 8 caps (W 4, L 4; 34 pts - 5T, 3PG)
13 Jamie ROBERTS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,057)
DoB: 08.11.86. 6'4" / 1.93m. 16st 10lbs / 107kgs
International record: 14 caps (W 7, L 7; 5 pts - 1T)
12 Jonathan DAVIES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,066)
DoB: 05.04.88. 6'1" / 1.86m. 16st 3lbs / 103kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 3; 10 pts - 2T)
11 Shane WILLIAMS (OSPREYS - Cap No 976)
DoB: 26.02.77. 5'7" / 1.71m. 12st 13lbs / 82kgs
International record: 66 caps (W 32, L 32, D 2; 230 pts - 46T)
10 Stephen JONES (SCARLETS - Cap No 966)
DoB: 08.12.77. 6'1" / 1.86m. 14st 12lbs / 94kgs
International record: 81 caps (W36, L43, D2; 705 pts - 6T,117C,142PG,5DG)
9 Gareth COOPER (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 985)
DoB: 07.05.79. 5'7" / 1.71m. 13st 6lbs / 85kgs
International record: 43 caps (W 20, L 23; 45 pts - 9T)
1 Gethin JENKINS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,006)
DoB: 17.11.80. 6'2" / 1.88m. 18st 13lbs / 120kgs
International record: 70 caps (W 30, L 38, D 2; 15 pts - 3T)
2 Matthew REES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,033)
DoB: 09.12.80. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 1lbs / 108kgs
International record: 32 caps (W 15, L 16, D 1; 10 pts - 2T)
3 Paul JAMES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,021)
DoB: 13.05.82. 6'1" / 1.86m. 17st 7lbs / 111kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 2, L 1)
4 Alun-Wyn JONES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,046)
DoB: 19.09.85. 6'5" / 1.96m. 19st 1lbs / 121kgs
International record: 33 caps (W 14, L 19; 20 pts - 4T)
5 Luke CHARTERIS (NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS - Cap No 1,030)
DoB: 09.03.83. 6'9" / 2.06m. 19st 9lbs / 125kgs
International record: 16 caps (W 9, L 7)
6 Andy POWELL (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,061)
DoB: 23.08.81. 6'4" / 1.94m. 17st 6lbs / 111kgs
International record: 10 caps (W 6, L 4)
7 Martyn WILLIAMS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 944)
DoB: 01.09.75. 6'0" / 1.83m. 15st 11lbs / 100kgs
International record: 89 caps (W 41, L 45, D 3; 73 pts - 14T, 1DG)
8 Ryan JONES (OSPREYS, CAPTAIN - Cap No 1,029)
DoB: 13.03.81. 6'5" / 1.96m. 18st 0lbs / 114kgs
International record: 35 caps (W 20, L 14, D 1; 5 pts - 1T)
REPLACEMENTS
16 Huw BENNETT (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,017)
DoB: 11.06.83. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 0lbs / 108kgs
International record: 25 caps (W 15, L 10)
17 Duncan JONES (OSPREYS - Cap No 997)
DoB: 18.09.78. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 8lbs / 112kgs
International record: 55 caps (W 25, L 28, D 2)
18 Bradley DAVIES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,065)
DoB: 09.01.87. 6'6" / 1.98m. 18st 1lb / 115kgs
International record: 5 caps (W 4, L 1)
19 Dan LYDIATE (NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS)
DoB: 18.12.87. 1.93m / 6'4". 15st 13lbs / 101kgs
International record: Uncapped
20 Dwayne PEEL (SALE SHARKS - Cap No 994)
DoB: 31.08.81. 5'9" / 1.76m. 13st 8lbs / 86kgs
International record: 70 caps (W 33, L 35, D 2; 25 pts - 5T)
21 Andrew BISHOP (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,059)
DoB: 07.08.85. 6'0" / 1.83m. 15st 0lbs / 95kgs
International record: 6 caps (W 5, L 1)
22 Tom JAMES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,055)
DoB: 17.04.87. 6'2" / 1.88m. 15st 1lb / 96kgs
International record: 6 caps (W 3, L 3; 10 pts - 2T)
For further information please contact:
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
ENDS
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
© 2009 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use
16.11.09
16.11.09 Shanklin out of Pumas clash
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 16 November 2009
SHANKLIN OUT FOR PUMAS CLASH
Wales centre Tom Shanklin has been ruled out of consideration for selection for this Saturday's Invesco Perpetual Series clash with Argentina at the Millennium Stadium.
Shanklin sustained a small fracture to a bone in his nose against Samoa last Friday night when he clashed with Blues colleague Gethin Jenkins at a ruck.
Shanklin was replaced by Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies nine minutes into the second half of Wales' 17-13 victory over the South Sea Islanders.
"Tom has a small fracture to the nasal bone which will limit his involvement in preparations this week and therefore rule him out of selection for the Argentina game," said Wales team physiotherapist Mark Davies.
"There is a certain amount of swelling there which will take a few days to settle down, but the injury requires no further treatment and he should be back in contention next week."
The Wales management have asked Ospreys centre Andrew Bishop to join their training camp for the early part of this week to provide cover for Shanklin, although he has not currently been appointed a full squad member.
For further information please contact:
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
Dir: 02920 822391
Ends.
Issued: 16 November 2009
SHANKLIN OUT FOR PUMAS CLASH
Wales centre Tom Shanklin has been ruled out of consideration for selection for this Saturday's Invesco Perpetual Series clash with Argentina at the Millennium Stadium.
Shanklin sustained a small fracture to a bone in his nose against Samoa last Friday night when he clashed with Blues colleague Gethin Jenkins at a ruck.
Shanklin was replaced by Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies nine minutes into the second half of Wales' 17-13 victory over the South Sea Islanders.
"Tom has a small fracture to the nasal bone which will limit his involvement in preparations this week and therefore rule him out of selection for the Argentina game," said Wales team physiotherapist Mark Davies.
"There is a certain amount of swelling there which will take a few days to settle down, but the injury requires no further treatment and he should be back in contention next week."
The Wales management have asked Ospreys centre Andrew Bishop to join their training camp for the early part of this week to provide cover for Shanklin, although he has not currently been appointed a full squad member.
For further information please contact:
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
Dir: 02920 822391
Ends.
16.11.09 WALES U18s HEAD NORTH FOR WALLABIES CLASH
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 16 November 2009
WALES U18s HEAD NORTH
Simon King's Wales Under 18 side will play Australian Schools in Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday 5 December (6pm).
The game will be the Australians third match of a seven-match tour of the UK and Ireland which kicks-off in Dublin on Friday, 27 November against Irish Schools and ends with a Test against England Under 18 on Saturday, 19 December.
This will be the first Test match in north Wales since Wales played Romania in August 2003. An Australian Schools side, together with all three Ella brothers, played a North Wales side in Llandudno in 1977, winning 66-0.
King is hoping his side can do slightly better this time around, he said: "We will pick a strong squad largely based on last year's Six Nations squad for this match. It's a great opportunity for all of us to be able to play against a national southern hemisphere side.
"As with the senior side, the more regular contact we have with these teams, the better. When these players come up against the same players at a later stage, they will be more confident having already met them.
"We are looking forward to playing at Parc Eirias. A number of players have come through our side from north Wales in recent years, such as James King, Joel Galley and Rhodri Jones, and it is important other young players from the region are able to watch top quality rugby and aspire to follow in those players' footsteps."
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council said: "We are delighted to be hosting this international game at Parc Eirias and hope that it is the first of many. The Council is committed to creating a centre of sporting excellence at Parc Eirias and making sure that the regeneration and economic opportunities that arise benefit the whole region.
"I'd like to welcome our Australian visitors to North Wales, I hope they enjoy their stay and wish them the very best of luck for the rest of the tour."
Tickets for the match are £7 for adults and £2 for Under 16s in the Grandstand and £5 for adults and free entry for Under 16s in the Terrace. Tickets go on sale on Monday 23 November at Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre and through Venue Cymru - www.venuecymru.co.uk and by calling 01492 872000.
For further information, contact Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
ends
Issued: 16 November 2009
WALES U18s HEAD NORTH
Simon King's Wales Under 18 side will play Australian Schools in Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday 5 December (6pm).
The game will be the Australians third match of a seven-match tour of the UK and Ireland which kicks-off in Dublin on Friday, 27 November against Irish Schools and ends with a Test against England Under 18 on Saturday, 19 December.
This will be the first Test match in north Wales since Wales played Romania in August 2003. An Australian Schools side, together with all three Ella brothers, played a North Wales side in Llandudno in 1977, winning 66-0.
King is hoping his side can do slightly better this time around, he said: "We will pick a strong squad largely based on last year's Six Nations squad for this match. It's a great opportunity for all of us to be able to play against a national southern hemisphere side.
"As with the senior side, the more regular contact we have with these teams, the better. When these players come up against the same players at a later stage, they will be more confident having already met them.
"We are looking forward to playing at Parc Eirias. A number of players have come through our side from north Wales in recent years, such as James King, Joel Galley and Rhodri Jones, and it is important other young players from the region are able to watch top quality rugby and aspire to follow in those players' footsteps."
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council said: "We are delighted to be hosting this international game at Parc Eirias and hope that it is the first of many. The Council is committed to creating a centre of sporting excellence at Parc Eirias and making sure that the regeneration and economic opportunities that arise benefit the whole region.
"I'd like to welcome our Australian visitors to North Wales, I hope they enjoy their stay and wish them the very best of luck for the rest of the tour."
Tickets for the match are £7 for adults and £2 for Under 16s in the Grandstand and £5 for adults and free entry for Under 16s in the Terrace. Tickets go on sale on Monday 23 November at Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre and through Venue Cymru - www.venuecymru.co.uk and by calling 01492 872000.
For further information, contact Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / lizjones@wru.co.uk
ends
16.11.09 SIR TASKER WATKINS STATUE UNVEILED AT MILLENNIUM STADIUM
SIR TASKER WATKINS STATUE UNVEILED AT MILLENNIUM STADIUM
*Pictures available from Huw Evans Agency
A bronze statue of Sir Tasker Watkins, VC, has been unveiled today (Sunday 15 November) at the Millennium Stadium in the heart of Cardiff as a permanent memorial to one of the most accomplished Welshmen of the late 20th century.
It will stand in prominence on the elevated section of the main stadium entrance in Westgate Street where hundreds of thousands of visitors pass by throughout the year when major events and games are staged.
The bronze statue was unveiled today by his daughter, Lady Mair Griffith-Williams at a ceremony following a march past by troops and the band from the 2nd battalion of the Royal Welsh Regiment.
More than 150 VIPs attended the ceremony including the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, Lord Dafydd Elis Thomas, The Archbishop of Wales and Major General R J M Porter.
The Welsh Rugby Union was represented by President, Dennis Gethin, Chairman David Pickering and Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis.
Sir Tasker Watkins, who died in September 2007 aged 88, was widely regarded as one of the most influential Welshmen of the late 20th century and achieved global recognition for his achievements in several fields of individual endeavour.
His rise to prominence in rugby administration and the law was achieved after his reputation was secured by a wartime act of bravery which earned him the Victoria Cross for exceptional valour.
He was President of the Welsh Rugby Union from 1993 until 2004 during 11 years which saw the game turn professional, the four Welsh Regions formed and the Millennium Stadium built.
As an accomplished barrister he rose through the judiciary to achieve one of the highest legal positions in the UK when he became the Deputy Chief Justice of England and Wales.
Throughout his life he retained a close and proud association and affinity with Glamorgan Wanderers RFC on the outskirts of Cardiff.
A military march began at Cardiff Castle today, through Westgate Street and to the Millennium Stadium where troops formed a guard of honour at the unveiling ceremony.
Lady Mair Griffith-Williams said: ""I am very proud that my father has been commemorated by this wonderful statue and particularly pleased it is here at the Millennium Stadium. The family is extremely grateful to everyone who has made this possible."
The concept for a statue at the Millennium Stadium began when Cardiff based businessmen, Mr Stanley Thomas Senior and Sir Stanley Thomas, championed the idea which was then commissioned by the Welsh Rugby Union, the Welsh Assembly Government and Cardiff County Council.
WRU President, Dennis Gethin, said: "This statue is a fitting tribute to a Welshman who achieved such distinction through his involvement in the military, the law and rugby.
"His endeavours displayed astonishing courage, a remarkable intellect, profound wisdom and a sense of honour which earned him the respect of all who met him.
"This statue will serve as a signal to future generations that the dignity and humanity he always displayed are values all of us must strive to emulate throughout our lives.
"I am lucky to have counted Sir Tasker as a friend and, like everyone else who knew him, I was influenced by his example and humbled by his courtesy and caring nature.
"The impact he had on the professional, legal, sporting and cultural life of Wales cannot be underestimated and must be remembered by history."
The First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, said: "Sir Tasker was a unique individual, and I stand by my belief that he was truly one of the outstanding Welshmen of the 20th century.
"The £25,000 funding from the Assembly Government towards his statue will ensure that Sir Tasker's remarkable contribution to Welsh rugby and his services as a soldier and judge will never be forgotten, just as he never forgot his roots in the heart of the Welsh Valleys.
"When people visit the Millennium Stadium, they will look up to him as an iconic example of a man who was both gifted and determined, but at the same time, courageous and humble. Now Wales can continue to be inspired by his legacy for years to come."
Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said: "Sir Tasker's lifetime of service to his country in so many different roles; war hero, lawyer, judge and sports administrator, is unparalleled.
"This statue, sited so closely to the national home of the game he loved, is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary man."
The bronze statue of Sir Tasker stands nine foot high on a concrete plinthe above the ramp at ground entrance three to the Millennium Stadium.
It was sculpted by the Llantwit Major based artist, Roger Andrews, who has built an international reputation as a sculptor of human figures and landmark buildings.
He said: "This is by far the most thrilling project I have ever been involved in.
"I am so pleased that this statue of such a famous and well respected Welshman will be permanently housed outside the home of rugby here in Wales.
"If I never completed another work I am certain this is the one sculpture I passionately wanted to create.
"In order to achieve a true likeness of the man I have spoken to many of his friends and family because I wanted to capture his character as well as his physical likeness.
"Everyone I have talked to has spoken in awe of Sir Tasker who was clearly a great Welshman and also a genuinely likeable individual."
For further information, please contact WRU head of communications John Williams 07824357083/ jwilliams@wru.co.uk or Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James 07725828498/ gjames@wru.co.uk.
ENDS
*Pictures available from Huw Evans Agency
A bronze statue of Sir Tasker Watkins, VC, has been unveiled today (Sunday 15 November) at the Millennium Stadium in the heart of Cardiff as a permanent memorial to one of the most accomplished Welshmen of the late 20th century.
It will stand in prominence on the elevated section of the main stadium entrance in Westgate Street where hundreds of thousands of visitors pass by throughout the year when major events and games are staged.
The bronze statue was unveiled today by his daughter, Lady Mair Griffith-Williams at a ceremony following a march past by troops and the band from the 2nd battalion of the Royal Welsh Regiment.
More than 150 VIPs attended the ceremony including the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, Lord Dafydd Elis Thomas, The Archbishop of Wales and Major General R J M Porter.
The Welsh Rugby Union was represented by President, Dennis Gethin, Chairman David Pickering and Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis.
Sir Tasker Watkins, who died in September 2007 aged 88, was widely regarded as one of the most influential Welshmen of the late 20th century and achieved global recognition for his achievements in several fields of individual endeavour.
His rise to prominence in rugby administration and the law was achieved after his reputation was secured by a wartime act of bravery which earned him the Victoria Cross for exceptional valour.
He was President of the Welsh Rugby Union from 1993 until 2004 during 11 years which saw the game turn professional, the four Welsh Regions formed and the Millennium Stadium built.
As an accomplished barrister he rose through the judiciary to achieve one of the highest legal positions in the UK when he became the Deputy Chief Justice of England and Wales.
Throughout his life he retained a close and proud association and affinity with Glamorgan Wanderers RFC on the outskirts of Cardiff.
A military march began at Cardiff Castle today, through Westgate Street and to the Millennium Stadium where troops formed a guard of honour at the unveiling ceremony.
Lady Mair Griffith-Williams said: ""I am very proud that my father has been commemorated by this wonderful statue and particularly pleased it is here at the Millennium Stadium. The family is extremely grateful to everyone who has made this possible."
The concept for a statue at the Millennium Stadium began when Cardiff based businessmen, Mr Stanley Thomas Senior and Sir Stanley Thomas, championed the idea which was then commissioned by the Welsh Rugby Union, the Welsh Assembly Government and Cardiff County Council.
WRU President, Dennis Gethin, said: "This statue is a fitting tribute to a Welshman who achieved such distinction through his involvement in the military, the law and rugby.
"His endeavours displayed astonishing courage, a remarkable intellect, profound wisdom and a sense of honour which earned him the respect of all who met him.
"This statue will serve as a signal to future generations that the dignity and humanity he always displayed are values all of us must strive to emulate throughout our lives.
"I am lucky to have counted Sir Tasker as a friend and, like everyone else who knew him, I was influenced by his example and humbled by his courtesy and caring nature.
"The impact he had on the professional, legal, sporting and cultural life of Wales cannot be underestimated and must be remembered by history."
The First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, said: "Sir Tasker was a unique individual, and I stand by my belief that he was truly one of the outstanding Welshmen of the 20th century.
"The £25,000 funding from the Assembly Government towards his statue will ensure that Sir Tasker's remarkable contribution to Welsh rugby and his services as a soldier and judge will never be forgotten, just as he never forgot his roots in the heart of the Welsh Valleys.
"When people visit the Millennium Stadium, they will look up to him as an iconic example of a man who was both gifted and determined, but at the same time, courageous and humble. Now Wales can continue to be inspired by his legacy for years to come."
Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said: "Sir Tasker's lifetime of service to his country in so many different roles; war hero, lawyer, judge and sports administrator, is unparalleled.
"This statue, sited so closely to the national home of the game he loved, is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary man."
The bronze statue of Sir Tasker stands nine foot high on a concrete plinthe above the ramp at ground entrance three to the Millennium Stadium.
It was sculpted by the Llantwit Major based artist, Roger Andrews, who has built an international reputation as a sculptor of human figures and landmark buildings.
He said: "This is by far the most thrilling project I have ever been involved in.
"I am so pleased that this statue of such a famous and well respected Welshman will be permanently housed outside the home of rugby here in Wales.
"If I never completed another work I am certain this is the one sculpture I passionately wanted to create.
"In order to achieve a true likeness of the man I have spoken to many of his friends and family because I wanted to capture his character as well as his physical likeness.
"Everyone I have talked to has spoken in awe of Sir Tasker who was clearly a great Welshman and also a genuinely likeable individual."
For further information, please contact WRU head of communications John Williams 07824357083/ jwilliams@wru.co.uk or Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James 07725828498/ gjames@wru.co.uk.
ENDS
14.11.09
14.11.09 BRITISH & IRISH CUP SET FOR BIG KICK-OFF
BRITISH & IRISH CUP SET FOR BIG KICK-OFF
The newly created British & Irish Cup, involving teams from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, kicks-off next week and this is the first of a series of regular Media Updates that will be issued to keep everyone up to date on the tournament. Please feel free to use any of this copy in the build-up to the kick-off on Friday, 20 November.
ARWEL WANTS NEATH TO BE SHIP SHAPE FOR BRISTOL VISIT
Arwel Thomas is hoping to put one over on his old Bristol team mate Paul Hull when the new British & Irish Cup kicks-off on Friday, 20 November.
The 26 times capped Welsh outside half will lead Neath into the new tournament and will be looking to turn back the clock to when he made his debut in another new competition, the European Challenge Cup, as long ago as 1996.
Then it was in the all white strip of Swansea having just returned to Wales from Bristol. On that day he kicked-off his European campaign with four conversions in a 63-38 home win over London Irish.
Fast forward 13 years and the 35-year-old Thomas believes the British & Irish Cup could have a similar impact on the rugby landscape as the European tournaments did after the game turned professional.
"I can sense similar levels of excitement and apprehension within the Neath club now as there were back in the nineties at Swansea. There is a feeling we are about to step into the unknown," said Thomas.
"There is no doubt the Heineken Cup and European Challenge Cup completely changed the face of the professional club game in the UK and Ireland and perhaps the British & Irish Cup could have a similar impact at our level.
"It has certainly created a new buzz among the players and we are all looking forward to testing ourselves against one of England's top sides. We played Bristol in a pre-season friendly at The Gnoll a few seasons ago and it was a great night - especially as we won.
"For many of our players it will be a step up in quality from what they are used to in the Principality Premiership, but that can only be a good thing. We've got some very good youngsters in our squad and for the likes of hooker Gerwyn Price, centre Luke Ford, wing Dai Evans and prop Nicky Downes, this competition could be the making of them."
As well as Thomas, Neath also have 2005 Welsh Grand Slam full back Kevin Morgan and ex-Dragons and Scarlets centre Nathan Brew as internationals in their ranks.
But, as Thomas, concedes, it is not about them reliving past glories. The British & Irish Cup is all about increasing the standard and pushing the younger, more ambitious players.
"We like to think we are one of the most professional clubs in Wales at our level. We train an extra night each week, do gym work and prepare as well as we possibly can," said Thomas.
"But we really don't know what to expect from the likes of Munster or Heriot's FP in our Pool. We know all the English sides will be very strong and that is our only concern - will we be able to compete at this level.
"I know from my days at Bristol just how strong the English league system is, although those days were so long ago that Bristol were still wearing letters. But we're ready for the challenge and the players are really up for it."
SCOTS GETTING READY TO KICK UP A STORM
The Scots have created a new team to enter into the British & Irish Cup, Gael Force, and they kicked up quite a storm in one of their warm-up outings before they kick-off their Pool A campaign.
Comprising young professionals from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as players from the SRU's National Academy, the combined side pulled off a highly commendable 20-19 victory at Doncaster Knights as they got ready for their first Cup assignment at Cornish Pirates on Sunday, 22 November.
"I think the result proved that Gael Force can be serious contenders in this competition and I think it showed the strength of the teams that Gael Force are going to be able to put out," said full back Tom Bury
"Our strength lies playing good running rugby with lots of offloading and that's how we intend to play."
Scottish Rugby's National Academy Manager, Stephen Gemmell, will be coaching the side and will be assisted by 18-times capped Graham Shiel and 11-times capped hooker Steve Scott.
The new side will be based at Stirling County's Bridgehaugh ground and the National Academy contracted players available to Gemmell and his coaching team will be:
Grant Anderson (Ayr) Alex Blair (Edin Accies)
Chris Bloomfield (Currie) Fraser Brown (Watsonians)
Tom Brown (Edinburgh Accies) Tom Bury (Boroughmuir)
Nick Campbell (Glasgow Hawks) David Denton (Edin Accies)
Struan Dewar (Heriot's) Michael Doneghan (Stew Mel)
Alex Dunbar (Selkirk) Chris Fusaro (Heriot's)
Grant Gilchrist (Heriot's) Finlay Gillies (Heriot's)*
Robert Harley (West of Scotland) Robin Hislop (Boroughmuir)
Stuart Hogg (Heriot's)* Rory Hutton (Heriot's)
Peter Jericevich (Glasgow Hawks) James Johnstone (Currie)
Nicky Little (Hawick)
Ashleah McCulloch (Watsonians)
Stuart McInally (Watsonians) Lewis Niven (Edin Accies)
Neale Patrick (Boroughmuir) Neil Rodger (Haddington)
Joe Stafford (Glasgow Hawks) Steven Wilson (Edin Accies)
HOWELLS NOT WILLING TO LOOK ONE STEP AHEAD
You could forgive Doncaster Knights director of rugby Lynn Howells for casting his mind forward to Round 2 of the British & Irish Cup, when the English side travel to Pontypridd in Pool D.
Because it was at Sardis Road that the former Wales caretaker and assistant coach became a folkhero as he guided Neil Jenkins and co to league and cup titles.
But before the Knights head to the gateway to the south Wales valleys, they have to kick-off their British & Irish Cup campaign at home against Scottish Premier champions, Ayr.
Howells also has close links to Scottish rugby, having coached the Edinburgh professional side and there is a strong contingent from north of the border in the Knights ranks.
Included among the Scottish clan is Steve McCall, who has successfully been transferred to full back this season with dramatic effect. His monster kicking has played a big part in recent good form and the player that Howells first spotted as a teenager when he was working in the Scottish capital is now blossoming into a huge asset.
"I brought Stuart down with me from the Edinburgh Academy and they are still keeping an eye on him. We also have Ali Warnock and Stevie Lawrie in our squad, who came down with me from Scotland," said Howells.
"But we also have quite a strong Welsh contingent as well. Brett Davey, a Pontypridd legend, is coaching alongside me and we have another ex-Sardis Road favourite, Tongan prop Ngalu Tau, in our pack.
"He got a terrific reception from the Ponty fans when we played down there in a pre-season friendly. That game ended in a 22-22 draw.
"This time it will be a different ball game and I'm expecting a typically warm reception both on and off the field. It is going to be a great experience for our players to play in a tournament like this.
"Cross border competitions take you out of your comfort zone and are good for both coaches and players to develop their skills. I can't wait, especially as our Pool also contains another of my former clubs, Cardiff.
"I was in on the ground floor of the Heineken Cup with Pontypridd back in 1995 and I can see the British & Irish Cup perhaps being the start of a fully blown league at this level within the four countries in years to come."
The game at Pontypridd on Friday, 27 November, will give Howells the chance to congratulate one of his former star pupils, ex-Wales scrum half Paul John, on his two recent successes - steering Wales to the Rugby World Cup sevens title and being named this week as the Sports Council for Wales' Coach of the Year.
"Paul is such a quite and unassuming guy, but he really is developing into a first-rate coach. I'm delighted to see him enjoying so much success, but hardly surprised," said Howells.
BRITISH & IRISH CUP
POOL A: Cornish Pirates, Exeter Chiefs, Gael Force Leinster, Newport, Plymouth Albion,
POOL B: Bristol Rugby, Coventry, Heriot's, Munster, Neath, Nottingham
POOL C: Aberavon, Bedford Blues, Llanelli, London Welsh, Moseley, Ulster
POOL D: Ayr, Birmingham & Solihull, Cardiff, Doncaster Knights, Pontypridd, Rotherham Titans
ROUND 1
Friday, 20 November
Pool A: Newport v Exeter Chiefs (19.30)
Pool B: Neath v Bristol Rugby (19:30), Coventry v Munster (19:45)
Pool C: Llanelli v Aberavon (19:15), Moseley v London Welsh (19:30), Ulster v Bedford Blues (19:30)
Pool D: Pontypridd v Cardiff (19:15)
Saturday, 21 November
Pool A: Plymouth Albion v Leinster (16.30)
Pool B: Heriots FP v Nottingham (14:00)
Pool D: Doncaster Knights v Ayr (14:00), Rotherham Titans v Birmingham & Solihull (14:00)
Sunday, 22 November
Pool A: Cornish Pirates v Gael Force (14.00)
ROUND 2
Friday, 27 November
Pool A: Leinster v Cornish Pirates (16:00), Newport v Plymouth Albion (19:30)
Pool B: Coventry v Heriots FP (19:45), Munster v Bristol (19:30)
Pool C: Aberavon v London Welsh (19:15), Moseley v Ulster (19:30)
Pool D: Ayr v Rotherham Titans (20:00), Pontypridd v Doncaster Knights (19:30)
Saturday, 28 November
Pool B: Exeter Chiefs v Gael Force (15:00), Nottingham v Neath (15:00)
Pool C: Bedford Blues v Llanelli (15:00)
Pool D: Birmingham & Solihull v Cardiff (14:00)
ROUND 3
Friday, 12 February
Pool A: Newport v Gael Force (19:30)
Pool C: Aberavon v Moseley (19:30), Llanelli v Ulster (19:15)
Saturday, 13 February
Pool A: Exeter Chiefs v Leinster (15:00), Plymouth Albion v Cornish Pirates (15:00)
Pool B: Munster v Nottingham
Pool C: London Welsh v Bedford Blues (14:00)
Pool D: Ayr v Birmingham & Solihull, Rotherham Titans v Pontypridd (14:00)
Sunday, 14 February
Pool B: Heriots FP v Neath (14:00), Bristol Rugby v Coventry (13:00)
Pool D: Doncaster Knights v Cardiff (15:00)
ROUND 4
Friday, 26 February
Pool A: Leinster v Newport (15:00), Gael Force v Plymouth Albion (19:00)
Pool C: Ulster v London Welsh (19:30)
Saturday, 27 February
Pool B: Neath v Munster (14:00)
Pool C: Bedford Blues v Aberavon (14:00), Llanelli v Moseley (14:30)
Pool D: Ayr v Pontypridd (15:00), Cardiff v Rotherham Titans (14:30)
Sunday, 28 February
Pool A: Cornish Pirates v Exeter Chiefs (14:00)
Pool B: Bristol Rugby v Heriots FP (15:00), Nottingham v Coventry (15:00)
Pool D: Doncaster Knights v Birmingham & Solihull
ROUND 5
Friday, 5 March
Pool C: Moseley v Bedford Blues (19:30)
Saturday, 6 March
Pool A: Plymouth Albion v Exeter Chiefs (15:00)
Pool B: Munster v Heriots FP, Neath v Coventry (14:30)
Pool D: Birmingham & Solihull v Pontypridd (15:00), Cardiff v Ayr (14:30), Rotherham Titans v Doncaster Knights (14:00)
Sunday, 7 March
Pool A: Cornish Pirates v Newport (15:00), Gael Force v Leinster (19:00)
Pool B: Nottingham v Bristol Rugby (15:00)
Pool C: London Welsh v Llanelli (14:00)
Friday, 12 March
Pool C: Ulster v Aberavon (19:30)
Semi-Finals: 24 April; Final: 15 May
THE CONCEPT
24 Teams
-12 English Championship clubs (Bedford, Birmingham & Solihull, Bristol Rugby, Cornish Pirates, Coventry, Doncaster Knights, Exeter Chiefs, London Welsh, Moseley, Nottingham, Plymouth Albion, Rotherham Titans)
- top 6 Welsh Principality Premiership clubs (Aberavon, Cardiff, Llanelli, Neath, Newport, Pontypridd)
- 3 Irish provinces (Munster, Leinster, Ulster)
- 3 Scottish teams - top two finishers in Scottish Hydro Electric Premiership Division 1 (champions Ayr and runners-up Heriot's) and the Gael Force, a team drawn from Edinburgh and Glasgow and members of Scottish Rugby's National Academy
Pool Stages
- 4 Pools of 6 playing once (5 matches)
- Pools based on travel/geography with the aim of maximising local interest and minimising cost to teams and supporters
- 4 points for a win, 2 for a draw, 1 bonus point for either a) scoring 4 or more tries or b) losing by 7 points or less
- Pool matches scheduled for November 27 and 28, February 13, February 27, March 13 (all dates to be confirmed)
- Pool winners progress to knockout stage
Semi Finals and Final
- 4 Pool winners progress to semi finals and final
- Semi finals scheduled for April 24, final for May 15
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
The newly created British & Irish Cup, involving teams from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, kicks-off next week and this is the first of a series of regular Media Updates that will be issued to keep everyone up to date on the tournament. Please feel free to use any of this copy in the build-up to the kick-off on Friday, 20 November.
ARWEL WANTS NEATH TO BE SHIP SHAPE FOR BRISTOL VISIT
Arwel Thomas is hoping to put one over on his old Bristol team mate Paul Hull when the new British & Irish Cup kicks-off on Friday, 20 November.
The 26 times capped Welsh outside half will lead Neath into the new tournament and will be looking to turn back the clock to when he made his debut in another new competition, the European Challenge Cup, as long ago as 1996.
Then it was in the all white strip of Swansea having just returned to Wales from Bristol. On that day he kicked-off his European campaign with four conversions in a 63-38 home win over London Irish.
Fast forward 13 years and the 35-year-old Thomas believes the British & Irish Cup could have a similar impact on the rugby landscape as the European tournaments did after the game turned professional.
"I can sense similar levels of excitement and apprehension within the Neath club now as there were back in the nineties at Swansea. There is a feeling we are about to step into the unknown," said Thomas.
"There is no doubt the Heineken Cup and European Challenge Cup completely changed the face of the professional club game in the UK and Ireland and perhaps the British & Irish Cup could have a similar impact at our level.
"It has certainly created a new buzz among the players and we are all looking forward to testing ourselves against one of England's top sides. We played Bristol in a pre-season friendly at The Gnoll a few seasons ago and it was a great night - especially as we won.
"For many of our players it will be a step up in quality from what they are used to in the Principality Premiership, but that can only be a good thing. We've got some very good youngsters in our squad and for the likes of hooker Gerwyn Price, centre Luke Ford, wing Dai Evans and prop Nicky Downes, this competition could be the making of them."
As well as Thomas, Neath also have 2005 Welsh Grand Slam full back Kevin Morgan and ex-Dragons and Scarlets centre Nathan Brew as internationals in their ranks.
But, as Thomas, concedes, it is not about them reliving past glories. The British & Irish Cup is all about increasing the standard and pushing the younger, more ambitious players.
"We like to think we are one of the most professional clubs in Wales at our level. We train an extra night each week, do gym work and prepare as well as we possibly can," said Thomas.
"But we really don't know what to expect from the likes of Munster or Heriot's FP in our Pool. We know all the English sides will be very strong and that is our only concern - will we be able to compete at this level.
"I know from my days at Bristol just how strong the English league system is, although those days were so long ago that Bristol were still wearing letters. But we're ready for the challenge and the players are really up for it."
SCOTS GETTING READY TO KICK UP A STORM
The Scots have created a new team to enter into the British & Irish Cup, Gael Force, and they kicked up quite a storm in one of their warm-up outings before they kick-off their Pool A campaign.
Comprising young professionals from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as players from the SRU's National Academy, the combined side pulled off a highly commendable 20-19 victory at Doncaster Knights as they got ready for their first Cup assignment at Cornish Pirates on Sunday, 22 November.
"I think the result proved that Gael Force can be serious contenders in this competition and I think it showed the strength of the teams that Gael Force are going to be able to put out," said full back Tom Bury
"Our strength lies playing good running rugby with lots of offloading and that's how we intend to play."
Scottish Rugby's National Academy Manager, Stephen Gemmell, will be coaching the side and will be assisted by 18-times capped Graham Shiel and 11-times capped hooker Steve Scott.
The new side will be based at Stirling County's Bridgehaugh ground and the National Academy contracted players available to Gemmell and his coaching team will be:
Grant Anderson (Ayr) Alex Blair (Edin Accies)
Chris Bloomfield (Currie) Fraser Brown (Watsonians)
Tom Brown (Edinburgh Accies) Tom Bury (Boroughmuir)
Nick Campbell (Glasgow Hawks) David Denton (Edin Accies)
Struan Dewar (Heriot's) Michael Doneghan (Stew Mel)
Alex Dunbar (Selkirk) Chris Fusaro (Heriot's)
Grant Gilchrist (Heriot's) Finlay Gillies (Heriot's)*
Robert Harley (West of Scotland) Robin Hislop (Boroughmuir)
Stuart Hogg (Heriot's)* Rory Hutton (Heriot's)
Peter Jericevich (Glasgow Hawks) James Johnstone (Currie)
Nicky Little (Hawick)
Ashleah McCulloch (Watsonians)
Stuart McInally (Watsonians) Lewis Niven (Edin Accies)
Neale Patrick (Boroughmuir) Neil Rodger (Haddington)
Joe Stafford (Glasgow Hawks) Steven Wilson (Edin Accies)
HOWELLS NOT WILLING TO LOOK ONE STEP AHEAD
You could forgive Doncaster Knights director of rugby Lynn Howells for casting his mind forward to Round 2 of the British & Irish Cup, when the English side travel to Pontypridd in Pool D.
Because it was at Sardis Road that the former Wales caretaker and assistant coach became a folkhero as he guided Neil Jenkins and co to league and cup titles.
But before the Knights head to the gateway to the south Wales valleys, they have to kick-off their British & Irish Cup campaign at home against Scottish Premier champions, Ayr.
Howells also has close links to Scottish rugby, having coached the Edinburgh professional side and there is a strong contingent from north of the border in the Knights ranks.
Included among the Scottish clan is Steve McCall, who has successfully been transferred to full back this season with dramatic effect. His monster kicking has played a big part in recent good form and the player that Howells first spotted as a teenager when he was working in the Scottish capital is now blossoming into a huge asset.
"I brought Stuart down with me from the Edinburgh Academy and they are still keeping an eye on him. We also have Ali Warnock and Stevie Lawrie in our squad, who came down with me from Scotland," said Howells.
"But we also have quite a strong Welsh contingent as well. Brett Davey, a Pontypridd legend, is coaching alongside me and we have another ex-Sardis Road favourite, Tongan prop Ngalu Tau, in our pack.
"He got a terrific reception from the Ponty fans when we played down there in a pre-season friendly. That game ended in a 22-22 draw.
"This time it will be a different ball game and I'm expecting a typically warm reception both on and off the field. It is going to be a great experience for our players to play in a tournament like this.
"Cross border competitions take you out of your comfort zone and are good for both coaches and players to develop their skills. I can't wait, especially as our Pool also contains another of my former clubs, Cardiff.
"I was in on the ground floor of the Heineken Cup with Pontypridd back in 1995 and I can see the British & Irish Cup perhaps being the start of a fully blown league at this level within the four countries in years to come."
The game at Pontypridd on Friday, 27 November, will give Howells the chance to congratulate one of his former star pupils, ex-Wales scrum half Paul John, on his two recent successes - steering Wales to the Rugby World Cup sevens title and being named this week as the Sports Council for Wales' Coach of the Year.
"Paul is such a quite and unassuming guy, but he really is developing into a first-rate coach. I'm delighted to see him enjoying so much success, but hardly surprised," said Howells.
BRITISH & IRISH CUP
POOL A: Cornish Pirates, Exeter Chiefs, Gael Force Leinster, Newport, Plymouth Albion,
POOL B: Bristol Rugby, Coventry, Heriot's, Munster, Neath, Nottingham
POOL C: Aberavon, Bedford Blues, Llanelli, London Welsh, Moseley, Ulster
POOL D: Ayr, Birmingham & Solihull, Cardiff, Doncaster Knights, Pontypridd, Rotherham Titans
ROUND 1
Friday, 20 November
Pool A: Newport v Exeter Chiefs (19.30)
Pool B: Neath v Bristol Rugby (19:30), Coventry v Munster (19:45)
Pool C: Llanelli v Aberavon (19:15), Moseley v London Welsh (19:30), Ulster v Bedford Blues (19:30)
Pool D: Pontypridd v Cardiff (19:15)
Saturday, 21 November
Pool A: Plymouth Albion v Leinster (16.30)
Pool B: Heriots FP v Nottingham (14:00)
Pool D: Doncaster Knights v Ayr (14:00), Rotherham Titans v Birmingham & Solihull (14:00)
Sunday, 22 November
Pool A: Cornish Pirates v Gael Force (14.00)
ROUND 2
Friday, 27 November
Pool A: Leinster v Cornish Pirates (16:00), Newport v Plymouth Albion (19:30)
Pool B: Coventry v Heriots FP (19:45), Munster v Bristol (19:30)
Pool C: Aberavon v London Welsh (19:15), Moseley v Ulster (19:30)
Pool D: Ayr v Rotherham Titans (20:00), Pontypridd v Doncaster Knights (19:30)
Saturday, 28 November
Pool B: Exeter Chiefs v Gael Force (15:00), Nottingham v Neath (15:00)
Pool C: Bedford Blues v Llanelli (15:00)
Pool D: Birmingham & Solihull v Cardiff (14:00)
ROUND 3
Friday, 12 February
Pool A: Newport v Gael Force (19:30)
Pool C: Aberavon v Moseley (19:30), Llanelli v Ulster (19:15)
Saturday, 13 February
Pool A: Exeter Chiefs v Leinster (15:00), Plymouth Albion v Cornish Pirates (15:00)
Pool B: Munster v Nottingham
Pool C: London Welsh v Bedford Blues (14:00)
Pool D: Ayr v Birmingham & Solihull, Rotherham Titans v Pontypridd (14:00)
Sunday, 14 February
Pool B: Heriots FP v Neath (14:00), Bristol Rugby v Coventry (13:00)
Pool D: Doncaster Knights v Cardiff (15:00)
ROUND 4
Friday, 26 February
Pool A: Leinster v Newport (15:00), Gael Force v Plymouth Albion (19:00)
Pool C: Ulster v London Welsh (19:30)
Saturday, 27 February
Pool B: Neath v Munster (14:00)
Pool C: Bedford Blues v Aberavon (14:00), Llanelli v Moseley (14:30)
Pool D: Ayr v Pontypridd (15:00), Cardiff v Rotherham Titans (14:30)
Sunday, 28 February
Pool A: Cornish Pirates v Exeter Chiefs (14:00)
Pool B: Bristol Rugby v Heriots FP (15:00), Nottingham v Coventry (15:00)
Pool D: Doncaster Knights v Birmingham & Solihull
ROUND 5
Friday, 5 March
Pool C: Moseley v Bedford Blues (19:30)
Saturday, 6 March
Pool A: Plymouth Albion v Exeter Chiefs (15:00)
Pool B: Munster v Heriots FP, Neath v Coventry (14:30)
Pool D: Birmingham & Solihull v Pontypridd (15:00), Cardiff v Ayr (14:30), Rotherham Titans v Doncaster Knights (14:00)
Sunday, 7 March
Pool A: Cornish Pirates v Newport (15:00), Gael Force v Leinster (19:00)
Pool B: Nottingham v Bristol Rugby (15:00)
Pool C: London Welsh v Llanelli (14:00)
Friday, 12 March
Pool C: Ulster v Aberavon (19:30)
Semi-Finals: 24 April; Final: 15 May
THE CONCEPT
24 Teams
-12 English Championship clubs (Bedford, Birmingham & Solihull, Bristol Rugby, Cornish Pirates, Coventry, Doncaster Knights, Exeter Chiefs, London Welsh, Moseley, Nottingham, Plymouth Albion, Rotherham Titans)
- top 6 Welsh Principality Premiership clubs (Aberavon, Cardiff, Llanelli, Neath, Newport, Pontypridd)
- 3 Irish provinces (Munster, Leinster, Ulster)
- 3 Scottish teams - top two finishers in Scottish Hydro Electric Premiership Division 1 (champions Ayr and runners-up Heriot's) and the Gael Force, a team drawn from Edinburgh and Glasgow and members of Scottish Rugby's National Academy
Pool Stages
- 4 Pools of 6 playing once (5 matches)
- Pools based on travel/geography with the aim of maximising local interest and minimising cost to teams and supporters
- 4 points for a win, 2 for a draw, 1 bonus point for either a) scoring 4 or more tries or b) losing by 7 points or less
- Pool matches scheduled for November 27 and 28, February 13, February 27, March 13 (all dates to be confirmed)
- Pool winners progress to knockout stage
Semi Finals and Final
- 4 Pool winners progress to semi finals and final
- Semi finals scheduled for April 24, final for May 15
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
13.11.09
13.11.09 NEW GRASS SURFACE INSTALLED AT MILLENNIUM STADIUM
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 13 November 2009
NEW GRASS SURFACE INSTALLED AT MILLENNIUM STADIUM
A new turf surface is to be laid at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff to replace the existing pitch before the Invesco Perpetual Series match between Wales and Argentina which takes place on Saturday, 21 November.
Independent consultants examined the turf during the week and confirmed it has been contaminated by Bibionidae fly infestation which cases damage to root growth and the surface grass coverage.
The Millennium Stadium Manager, Gerry Toms, today (Friday) confirmed that a decision has been made to replace the pitch now to avoid the consequences of grass and root erosion which could take place before the remaining Invesco Perpetual Autumn series internationals.
The games against Argentina on Saturday 21 November and Australia on Saturday 28 November will now be played on new turf which will be delivered from County Turf in Lincolnshire and laid over the weekend.
The new grass surface will be laid on the existing pallet and soil foundation will consist of 1.2metre by 15 metre lengths of turf which will have been maturing and developing root growth for 18 months.
Bibionidae fly infestation was discovered when the independent experts were called in as a precaution to check the pitch after excessive rainfall had affected the surface prior to the international match against New Zealand.
Advice from experts has indicated that quality of the pitch at its current level cannot be guaranteed while the Bibiondae fly infestation is still active.
In the ten year history of the Stadium more than 25 pitches have been laid and this is the second occasion when an infestation has resulted in a decision to immediately change the pitch.
Millennium Stadium Manager, Gerry Toms, said: "We have decided to avoid any risk of the infestation causing further erosion over the weeks ahead by deciding to replace the surface now.
"Obviously our major concern was how much damage might take place between now and the Australia match which will take place at the end of November.
"By installing a brand new surface we effectively remove any question mark over the stability of the surface because the turf delivered will have healthy root and grass growth.
"The important issue is that we have carried out the correct checks and acted decisively on the information before us.
"The pitch tonight was not to the standard we require which, combined with the unknown factor of the potential erosion over the next two weeks has prompted us to act now instead of waiting for any further assessments in the days ahead."
The pitch was tested by the STRI, Sports Turf Research Institute and following their initial findings independent experts were consulted separately to confirm the condition of the pitch and advise on treatment or replacement options.
Mr Toms explained that the WRU had been advised that the Bibiondae fly infestation cannot be treated effectively to destroy the microscopic insects.
Agronomist Mr John Lockyer, one of the independent experts called in separately to advise on the condition of the pitch, said: "We have confirmed the presence of this infestation and I agree with the decision to take positive action now to replace the surface.
The insects which consume the grass thatch and root material can multiply during the current weather conditions.
In October 2008 Root Knot Nematodes which causes gradual deterioration of the grass quality, was discovered in the Millennium Stadium pitch and the turf was replaced.
For further information contact John Williams tel 07824 357083 / Gemma James tel 07725 828498 / Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / Simon Rimmer tel 07825 981128
Ends
Issued: 13 November 2009
NEW GRASS SURFACE INSTALLED AT MILLENNIUM STADIUM
A new turf surface is to be laid at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff to replace the existing pitch before the Invesco Perpetual Series match between Wales and Argentina which takes place on Saturday, 21 November.
Independent consultants examined the turf during the week and confirmed it has been contaminated by Bibionidae fly infestation which cases damage to root growth and the surface grass coverage.
The Millennium Stadium Manager, Gerry Toms, today (Friday) confirmed that a decision has been made to replace the pitch now to avoid the consequences of grass and root erosion which could take place before the remaining Invesco Perpetual Autumn series internationals.
The games against Argentina on Saturday 21 November and Australia on Saturday 28 November will now be played on new turf which will be delivered from County Turf in Lincolnshire and laid over the weekend.
The new grass surface will be laid on the existing pallet and soil foundation will consist of 1.2metre by 15 metre lengths of turf which will have been maturing and developing root growth for 18 months.
Bibionidae fly infestation was discovered when the independent experts were called in as a precaution to check the pitch after excessive rainfall had affected the surface prior to the international match against New Zealand.
Advice from experts has indicated that quality of the pitch at its current level cannot be guaranteed while the Bibiondae fly infestation is still active.
In the ten year history of the Stadium more than 25 pitches have been laid and this is the second occasion when an infestation has resulted in a decision to immediately change the pitch.
Millennium Stadium Manager, Gerry Toms, said: "We have decided to avoid any risk of the infestation causing further erosion over the weeks ahead by deciding to replace the surface now.
"Obviously our major concern was how much damage might take place between now and the Australia match which will take place at the end of November.
"By installing a brand new surface we effectively remove any question mark over the stability of the surface because the turf delivered will have healthy root and grass growth.
"The important issue is that we have carried out the correct checks and acted decisively on the information before us.
"The pitch tonight was not to the standard we require which, combined with the unknown factor of the potential erosion over the next two weeks has prompted us to act now instead of waiting for any further assessments in the days ahead."
The pitch was tested by the STRI, Sports Turf Research Institute and following their initial findings independent experts were consulted separately to confirm the condition of the pitch and advise on treatment or replacement options.
Mr Toms explained that the WRU had been advised that the Bibiondae fly infestation cannot be treated effectively to destroy the microscopic insects.
Agronomist Mr John Lockyer, one of the independent experts called in separately to advise on the condition of the pitch, said: "We have confirmed the presence of this infestation and I agree with the decision to take positive action now to replace the surface.
The insects which consume the grass thatch and root material can multiply during the current weather conditions.
In October 2008 Root Knot Nematodes which causes gradual deterioration of the grass quality, was discovered in the Millennium Stadium pitch and the turf was replaced.
For further information contact John Williams tel 07824 357083 / Gemma James tel 07725 828498 / Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / Simon Rimmer tel 07825 981128
Ends
12.11.09
12.11.09 WORLD CUP WINNING RUGBY COACH SCOOPS TOP GONG
12.11.09 WORLD CUP WINNING RUGBY COACH SCOOPS TOP GONG
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 12 November 2009
WORLD CUP WINNING RUGBY COACH SCOOPS TOP GONG
The man at the helm of Welsh Rugby Sevens - Paul John - was awarded the prestigious Sports Council for Wales 'Coach of the Year' accolade today (Thursday 12 November), along with High Performance Coach of the Year, at a glittering ceremony at Cardiff's Welsh Institute of Sport.
The former PE teacher's contribution to rugby in Wales over the past 12 months undoubtedly put him in prime position on the podium, after he became the first Welsh coach to lead a team to World Cup victory in any sport.
For Pontyclun-born John, rugby has clearly been in his blood from an early age. First pulling on his boots for local side Llantwit Fardre, the scrum half went on to play and captain Pontypridd RFC and earn ten caps for his country.
Taking on the role of National Sevens Coach in October 2008, just five months later John was leading his first choice squad out to the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai. Having knocked out the tournament favourites, New Zealand, in an earlier round, Wales went on to beat Argentina 19-12 and be crowned Rugby World Cup Sevens Champions.
Nominated by John Schropfer, WRU National Coach Development Manager, the 39 year-old former-Wales international player dedicates every spare second developing his squad.
John Schropfer explains:
"Paul's attributes make him an ideal role model for the young players aspiring to become professional players. His empowering style of coaching has seen his charges develop considerably this last year. He is the first Welsh rugby coach who can say that he has won the World Cup for Sevens. This was an incredible achievement."
And coaching must be in the blood for father, Dennis, led Pontypridd to triumph in the Welsh Cup in 1996 and was responsible for their Championship crown accomplishment in 1997. He then took over as Wales's caretaker coach in 1998 before the appointment of Graham Henry.
Chair of the Sports Council for Wales, Philip Carling said:
"Paul John has made a massive contribution to Welsh sport, in particular, rugby and we have certainly enjoyed the fruits of his labour this year with a World Cup victory. Good coaches inspire, motivate and encourage and it's vital that we recognise their work.
"The awards also demonstrate that coaches at local level are just as vital as those who work with elite athletes. It is their industrious contribution that encourages youngsters into sport, keeps them motivated and active at a young age and instils the core values of hard work, accountability, belief and - above all - enjoyment."
And Paul John wasn't the only coach to go home with a pat on the back from the Sports Council for Wales. Malcolm Arnold, a man who's coaching career spans over 40 years was recognised for his continued contribution to sport.
Arnold, who has helped shape the careers of many high profile athletes, including Wales' own Colin Jackson, had his dedication rewarded by taking home the Lifetime Achievement award.
National Coach for Wales from 1974 - 1994, Arnold led Jackson to an Olympic Silver medal, World, European and Commonwealth Games gold medals and a world record in the 110m hurdles.
Now Senior Performance Coach for UK Athletics, Arnold continues to play a key role in developing Olympic hopefuls; guiding Swansea Harrier, Dai Greene to the World Championship final and a string of personal bests in 2009 and bringing Rhys Williams back from injury to qualify for the Berlin World Championships.
The Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said:
"I would like to warmly congratulate each one of the winners and in particular Paul John. He deserves great credit for the performances of Wales's rugby Sevens squad and to steer the team to a richly-deserved triumph in the Sevens World Cup makes him a worthy winner of this prestigious award."
"Behind each one of the award winners, there seems to be a truly inspiring story of sporting commitment. I hope that other coaches, at all levels of sport in Wales, are inspired by their examples and carry on their good work. It is vital we recognise the crucial importance of their work, without which sport in Wales would not exist."
Other coaches collecting their accolades today included:
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
ROY COURT, JUDO Cardiff
• Roy is the Welsh Judo Association's Liaison Officer for Special Needs and has been involved with Welsh disability judo for more than 25 years.
• He assisted the British Judo Association Inclusion Commission to form a grading system for Disabled Athletes.
• Roy has taken teams from Wales and the UK to competitions in Germany, Finland, Sweden, Belgium and France.
• In 2000 he organised the first European special needs judo event, in Cardiff, with 12 countries participating and over 200 competitors.
• Roy was instrumental, together with a Dutch coach, in setting up and delivering the Special Olympics Sports Rules for judo.
• He has designed and put together a Disability Awareness Course specifically for judo, delivered in Wales and many areas of England and Scotland. To this end he wrote a Judo Manual for coaches, judoka, referees, officials and volunteers.
• Over the past ten years, he has also mentored students from UWIC, who attend sessions for practical experience in working with special needs students, as part of their degree courses, including international students from around the world.
CLUB COACH
Sponsored by sports coach UK
JOHN BELL, CRICKET Wrexham
• John has coached cricket for more than 25 years and is currently the Head Coach at Gresford Cricket Club and a coach to the North East Wales Under 14s.
• John's passion for the sport has helped expand a small youth section into four youth teams with around 120 players.
• An active member of the Gresford Cricket Club for 40 years, John not only coaches but he also coordinates youth teams, plays in various leagues and is even the groundsman, club secretary, transport coordinator and first aid officer.
• 2009 has seen many of his players be selected for national and regional squads and a number of players from the U13s and U15s have progressed into the senior second team, helping the team secure promotion from the fifth division to the fourth.
COACH TO DISABLED SPORTSPEOPLE
Sponsored by Mo Motors
TIM HAZELL, ARCHERY Newbridge, Gwent
• Team Coach of the GB Paralympic team and Wales' able bodied team, development squads and the GB Talent Identification Programme, Tim has been coaching for 10 years.
• Tim has a first-class track record and in 2008, his team picked up the highest number of medals ever won by a Paralympic archery team at a Paralympic Games.
• Tim has been responsible for building a coaching structure within Paralympic archery. The current team us the most successful team ever in GB archery in all disciplines - able bodies and disabled - with two Paralympic champions, world record holders and world champions in both team and individual events.
• 2009 has seen Tim help the GB Paralympic women's compound team (which includes Pippa Britton - originally from Cowbridge, now based in Newport) win gold at the World Championships and scoop two world records.
• Tim also travelled to Arizona in 2009 for one of the most important able bodied events in the archery calendar - the women's team came home with silver, while the men's compound team won bronze and the men's recurve team completed the hat-trick with yet another bronze.
YOUNG COACH/LEADER
Sponsored by University of Wales Institute of Cardiff (UWIC)
NIA THOMAS, RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS Llanelli
• Nia has gone from competitor to taking control of the Elite Squad in Llanelli Academy and the Welsh Prep and Advanced Squads.
• Under her guidance the squads are climbing the ranks both in Britain and internationally. She has consistently produced British champions and medal winners, across several age categories.
• Nia has taken the Welsh National Squad gymnasts to compete in Poland, America, Portugal and Finland.
• She balances her coaching role with a full time job working as a 5x60 Officer in Swansea and also coaches at Llanelli Academy for 18 hours a week and six hours at the Welsh Institute of Sport in Cardiff.
FEMALE COACH OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by SkillsActive
PAM RICHARDS, HOCKEY Wrexham
• As Senior Women's Head Coach, Pam has propelled the team to winning bronze at the Euro National Trophy in Rome.
• For the first time since 1998, the women's team has qualified to compete at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi 2010. The team have also made the grade to compete at World Cup qualifiers in 2010.
• She has coached for 15 years and is a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader at Glyndwr University.
For further information about how you can get involved in coaching at all levels, visit the Coaching Wales website at www.coachingwales.com or contact 0845 045 0904 / email: coachingwales@scw.org.uk
For photographs of the award ceremony, contact Jane Williams at the Sports Council for Wales on 029 2033 8274 / jane.williams@scw.org.uk
[Ends]
NOTES TO EDITORS
• The Sports Council for Wales is the national organisation responsible for developing and promoting sport and active lifestyles. It is the main adviser on sporting matters to the Welsh Assembly Government and is responsible for distributing funds from the National Lottery to sport in Wales.
Ends
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 12 November 2009
WORLD CUP WINNING RUGBY COACH SCOOPS TOP GONG
The man at the helm of Welsh Rugby Sevens - Paul John - was awarded the prestigious Sports Council for Wales 'Coach of the Year' accolade today (Thursday 12 November), along with High Performance Coach of the Year, at a glittering ceremony at Cardiff's Welsh Institute of Sport.
The former PE teacher's contribution to rugby in Wales over the past 12 months undoubtedly put him in prime position on the podium, after he became the first Welsh coach to lead a team to World Cup victory in any sport.
For Pontyclun-born John, rugby has clearly been in his blood from an early age. First pulling on his boots for local side Llantwit Fardre, the scrum half went on to play and captain Pontypridd RFC and earn ten caps for his country.
Taking on the role of National Sevens Coach in October 2008, just five months later John was leading his first choice squad out to the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai. Having knocked out the tournament favourites, New Zealand, in an earlier round, Wales went on to beat Argentina 19-12 and be crowned Rugby World Cup Sevens Champions.
Nominated by John Schropfer, WRU National Coach Development Manager, the 39 year-old former-Wales international player dedicates every spare second developing his squad.
John Schropfer explains:
"Paul's attributes make him an ideal role model for the young players aspiring to become professional players. His empowering style of coaching has seen his charges develop considerably this last year. He is the first Welsh rugby coach who can say that he has won the World Cup for Sevens. This was an incredible achievement."
And coaching must be in the blood for father, Dennis, led Pontypridd to triumph in the Welsh Cup in 1996 and was responsible for their Championship crown accomplishment in 1997. He then took over as Wales's caretaker coach in 1998 before the appointment of Graham Henry.
Chair of the Sports Council for Wales, Philip Carling said:
"Paul John has made a massive contribution to Welsh sport, in particular, rugby and we have certainly enjoyed the fruits of his labour this year with a World Cup victory. Good coaches inspire, motivate and encourage and it's vital that we recognise their work.
"The awards also demonstrate that coaches at local level are just as vital as those who work with elite athletes. It is their industrious contribution that encourages youngsters into sport, keeps them motivated and active at a young age and instils the core values of hard work, accountability, belief and - above all - enjoyment."
And Paul John wasn't the only coach to go home with a pat on the back from the Sports Council for Wales. Malcolm Arnold, a man who's coaching career spans over 40 years was recognised for his continued contribution to sport.
Arnold, who has helped shape the careers of many high profile athletes, including Wales' own Colin Jackson, had his dedication rewarded by taking home the Lifetime Achievement award.
National Coach for Wales from 1974 - 1994, Arnold led Jackson to an Olympic Silver medal, World, European and Commonwealth Games gold medals and a world record in the 110m hurdles.
Now Senior Performance Coach for UK Athletics, Arnold continues to play a key role in developing Olympic hopefuls; guiding Swansea Harrier, Dai Greene to the World Championship final and a string of personal bests in 2009 and bringing Rhys Williams back from injury to qualify for the Berlin World Championships.
The Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said:
"I would like to warmly congratulate each one of the winners and in particular Paul John. He deserves great credit for the performances of Wales's rugby Sevens squad and to steer the team to a richly-deserved triumph in the Sevens World Cup makes him a worthy winner of this prestigious award."
"Behind each one of the award winners, there seems to be a truly inspiring story of sporting commitment. I hope that other coaches, at all levels of sport in Wales, are inspired by their examples and carry on their good work. It is vital we recognise the crucial importance of their work, without which sport in Wales would not exist."
Other coaches collecting their accolades today included:
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
ROY COURT, JUDO Cardiff
• Roy is the Welsh Judo Association's Liaison Officer for Special Needs and has been involved with Welsh disability judo for more than 25 years.
• He assisted the British Judo Association Inclusion Commission to form a grading system for Disabled Athletes.
• Roy has taken teams from Wales and the UK to competitions in Germany, Finland, Sweden, Belgium and France.
• In 2000 he organised the first European special needs judo event, in Cardiff, with 12 countries participating and over 200 competitors.
• Roy was instrumental, together with a Dutch coach, in setting up and delivering the Special Olympics Sports Rules for judo.
• He has designed and put together a Disability Awareness Course specifically for judo, delivered in Wales and many areas of England and Scotland. To this end he wrote a Judo Manual for coaches, judoka, referees, officials and volunteers.
• Over the past ten years, he has also mentored students from UWIC, who attend sessions for practical experience in working with special needs students, as part of their degree courses, including international students from around the world.
CLUB COACH
Sponsored by sports coach UK
JOHN BELL, CRICKET Wrexham
• John has coached cricket for more than 25 years and is currently the Head Coach at Gresford Cricket Club and a coach to the North East Wales Under 14s.
• John's passion for the sport has helped expand a small youth section into four youth teams with around 120 players.
• An active member of the Gresford Cricket Club for 40 years, John not only coaches but he also coordinates youth teams, plays in various leagues and is even the groundsman, club secretary, transport coordinator and first aid officer.
• 2009 has seen many of his players be selected for national and regional squads and a number of players from the U13s and U15s have progressed into the senior second team, helping the team secure promotion from the fifth division to the fourth.
COACH TO DISABLED SPORTSPEOPLE
Sponsored by Mo Motors
TIM HAZELL, ARCHERY Newbridge, Gwent
• Team Coach of the GB Paralympic team and Wales' able bodied team, development squads and the GB Talent Identification Programme, Tim has been coaching for 10 years.
• Tim has a first-class track record and in 2008, his team picked up the highest number of medals ever won by a Paralympic archery team at a Paralympic Games.
• Tim has been responsible for building a coaching structure within Paralympic archery. The current team us the most successful team ever in GB archery in all disciplines - able bodies and disabled - with two Paralympic champions, world record holders and world champions in both team and individual events.
• 2009 has seen Tim help the GB Paralympic women's compound team (which includes Pippa Britton - originally from Cowbridge, now based in Newport) win gold at the World Championships and scoop two world records.
• Tim also travelled to Arizona in 2009 for one of the most important able bodied events in the archery calendar - the women's team came home with silver, while the men's compound team won bronze and the men's recurve team completed the hat-trick with yet another bronze.
YOUNG COACH/LEADER
Sponsored by University of Wales Institute of Cardiff (UWIC)
NIA THOMAS, RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS Llanelli
• Nia has gone from competitor to taking control of the Elite Squad in Llanelli Academy and the Welsh Prep and Advanced Squads.
• Under her guidance the squads are climbing the ranks both in Britain and internationally. She has consistently produced British champions and medal winners, across several age categories.
• Nia has taken the Welsh National Squad gymnasts to compete in Poland, America, Portugal and Finland.
• She balances her coaching role with a full time job working as a 5x60 Officer in Swansea and also coaches at Llanelli Academy for 18 hours a week and six hours at the Welsh Institute of Sport in Cardiff.
FEMALE COACH OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by SkillsActive
PAM RICHARDS, HOCKEY Wrexham
• As Senior Women's Head Coach, Pam has propelled the team to winning bronze at the Euro National Trophy in Rome.
• For the first time since 1998, the women's team has qualified to compete at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi 2010. The team have also made the grade to compete at World Cup qualifiers in 2010.
• She has coached for 15 years and is a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader at Glyndwr University.
For further information about how you can get involved in coaching at all levels, visit the Coaching Wales website at www.coachingwales.com or contact 0845 045 0904 / email: coachingwales@scw.org.uk
For photographs of the award ceremony, contact Jane Williams at the Sports Council for Wales on 029 2033 8274 / jane.williams@scw.org.uk
[Ends]
NOTES TO EDITORS
• The Sports Council for Wales is the national organisation responsible for developing and promoting sport and active lifestyles. It is the main adviser on sporting matters to the Welsh Assembly Government and is responsible for distributing funds from the National Lottery to sport in Wales.
Ends
10.11.09
10.11.09 FIVE CHANGES FOR WALES
10.11.09 FIVE CHANGES FOR WALES
Wales have made five changes to the starting line-up who faced New Zealand last Saturday for the visit of Samoa to the Millennium Stadium in the Invesco Perpetual 09 Series clash on Friday night (Kick-off 7.30pm).
Ospreys fly-half Dan Biggar wins his fourth cap when he starts at half back with Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks), who will be playing in his 70th international for his country.
Biggar made his debut against Canada in 2008 when both he and Peel joined the game from the bench and he figured twice on Wales' recent summer tour to North America, where he partnered the Blues' Gareth Cooper in the win over Canada and again came on as a replacement alongside Peel against USA.
In the third back division change, Blues wing Tom James replaces Shane Williams.
Up front Huw Bennett (Ospreys) starts at hooker with Matthew Rees (Scarlets) moving to the bench and Blues back row Sam Warburton comes in for regional team-mate Martyn Williams.
Stephen Jones, Cooper and Shane and Martyn Williams miss-out all together with the Scarlets trio of Martin Roberts, Jonathan Davies and Morgan Stoddart providing cover for the backs from the replacements bench.
Front row cover is supplied by Rees and Ospreys prop Craig Mitchell, whilst fellow Osprey Jonathan Thomas and Blues second row Bradley Davies are also included.
"We've named a strong side and shown the maximum amount of respect to Samoa," said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.
"They have proved to be a difficult side for Welsh teams in the past and we don't expect the standard to be any different on Friday night.
"They are a tough physical team with players featuring for some of Europe's top sides and there is no question of us under-estimating what we are up against.
"Dan Biggar is a bright prospect and his performances at the Ospreys this season mean he fully deserves his opportunity. Dan is surrounded by experience with Dwayne Peel and Jamie Roberts on either side of him which should help further smooth his transition to international rugby.
"Tom James has another chance to show us what he can do and Sam Warburton has been knocking on the door for some time after impressing the coaches on tour to North America this summer.
"But elsewhere we have maintained a consistency in selection and we will be looking to put a performance in on Friday night that will help create the momentum to finish of this series with wins and build on what we achieved for large parts of the game against New Zealand."
WALES: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Tom Shanklin, Jamie Roberts, Tom James, Dan Biggar, Dwayne Peel; Gethin Jenkins, Huw Bennett, Paul James, Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Andy Powell, Sam Warburton, Ryan Jones (Capt)
Replacements: Matthew Rees, Craig Mitchell, Bradley Davies, Jonathan Thomas, Martin Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Morgan Stoddart
WALES
15 James HOOK (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,047)
DoB: 27.06.85. 6'0" / 1.83m. 14st 12lbs / 94kgs
International record: 34 caps (W 14, L 19, D 1; 209 pts - 6T,34C,35PG,2DG)
14 Leigh HALFPENNY (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,060)
DoB: 22.12.88. 5'10" / 1.77m. 13st 1lb / 83kgs
International record: 7 caps (W 3, L 4; 26 pts - 4T, 2PG)
13 Tom SHANKLIN (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 993)
DoB: 24.11.79. 6'2" / 1.88m. 15st 9lbs / 99kgs
International record: 64 caps (W 30, L 33, D 1; 100 pts - 20T)
12 Jamie ROBERTS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,057)
DoB: 08.11.86. 6'4" / 1.93m. 16st 10lbs / 107kgs
International record: 13 caps (W 6, L 7; 5 pts - 1T)
11 Tom JAMES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,055)
DoB: 17.04.87. 6'2" / 1.88m. 15st 1lb / 96kgs
International record: 5 caps (W 2, L 3; 10 pts - 2T)
10 Dan BIGGAR (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,063)
DoB: 16.10.89. 6'2" / 1.88m. 13st 9lbs / 87kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 3; 35 pts - 7C, 7PG)
9 Dwayne PEEL (SALE SHARKS - Cap No 994)
DoB: 31.08.81. 5'9" / 1.76m. 13st 8lbs / 86kgs
International record: 69 caps (W 32, L 35, D 2; 25 pts - 5T)
1 Gethin JENKINS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,006)
DoB: 17.11.80. 6'2" / 1.88m. 18st 13lbs / 120kgs
International record: 69 caps (W 29, L 38, D 2; 15 pts - 3T)
2 Huw BENNETT (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,017)
DoB: 11.06.83. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 0lbs / 108kgs
International record: 24 caps (W 14, L 10)
3 Paul JAMES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,021)
DoB: 13.05.82. 6'1" / 1.86m. 17st 7lbs / 111kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 1, L 1)
4 Alun-Wyn JONES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,046)
DoB: 19.09.85. 6'5" / 1.96m. 19st 1lbs / 121kgs
International record: 32 caps (W 13, L 19; 20 pts - 4T)
5 Luke CHARTERIS (NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS - Cap No 1,030)
DoB: 09.03.83. 6'9" / 2.06m. 19st 9lbs / 125kgs
International record: 15 caps (W 8, L 7)
6 Andy POWELL (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,061)
DoB: 23.08.81. 6'4" / 1.94m. 17st 6lbs / 111kgs
International record: 9 caps (W 5, L 4)
7 Sam WARBURTON (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,070)
DoB: 05.10.88. 1.88m / 6'2". 15st 9lbs / 99kgs
International record: 1 cap (W 1)
8 Ryan JONES (OSPREYS, CAPTAIN - Cap No 1,029)
DoB: 13.03.81. 6'5" / 1.96m. 18st 0lbs / 114kgs
International record: 34 caps (W 19, L 14, D 1; 5 pts - 1T)
REPLACEMENTS
16 Matthew REES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,033)
DoB: 09.12.80. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 1lbs / 108kgs
International record: 31 caps (W 14, L 16, D 1; 10 pts - 2T)
17 Craig MITCHELL (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,068)
DoB: 03.05.86. 6'1" / 1.85m. 17st 2lbs / 109kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 2)
18 Bradley DAVIES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,065)
DoB: 09.01.87. 6'6" / 1.98m. 18st 1lb / 115kgs
International record: 4 caps (W 3, L 1)
19 Jonathan THOMAS (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,013)
DoB: 27.12.82. 6'5" / 1.96m. 17st 5lbs / 110kgs
International record: 47 caps (W 23, L 22, D 2; 35 pts - 7T)
20 Martin ROBERTS (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,062)
DoB: 06.06.86. 5'9" / 1.76m. 12st 1lb / 77kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 1, L 1)
21 Jonathan DAVIES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,066)
DoB: 05.04.88. 6'1" / 1.86m. 16st 3lbs / 103kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 2; 10 pts - 2T)
22 Morgan STODDART (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,056)
DoB: 23.09.84. 6'1" / 1.86m. 14st 13lbs / 95kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 1, L 2; 10 pts - 2T)
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
Wales have made five changes to the starting line-up who faced New Zealand last Saturday for the visit of Samoa to the Millennium Stadium in the Invesco Perpetual 09 Series clash on Friday night (Kick-off 7.30pm).
Ospreys fly-half Dan Biggar wins his fourth cap when he starts at half back with Dwayne Peel (Sale Sharks), who will be playing in his 70th international for his country.
Biggar made his debut against Canada in 2008 when both he and Peel joined the game from the bench and he figured twice on Wales' recent summer tour to North America, where he partnered the Blues' Gareth Cooper in the win over Canada and again came on as a replacement alongside Peel against USA.
In the third back division change, Blues wing Tom James replaces Shane Williams.
Up front Huw Bennett (Ospreys) starts at hooker with Matthew Rees (Scarlets) moving to the bench and Blues back row Sam Warburton comes in for regional team-mate Martyn Williams.
Stephen Jones, Cooper and Shane and Martyn Williams miss-out all together with the Scarlets trio of Martin Roberts, Jonathan Davies and Morgan Stoddart providing cover for the backs from the replacements bench.
Front row cover is supplied by Rees and Ospreys prop Craig Mitchell, whilst fellow Osprey Jonathan Thomas and Blues second row Bradley Davies are also included.
"We've named a strong side and shown the maximum amount of respect to Samoa," said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.
"They have proved to be a difficult side for Welsh teams in the past and we don't expect the standard to be any different on Friday night.
"They are a tough physical team with players featuring for some of Europe's top sides and there is no question of us under-estimating what we are up against.
"Dan Biggar is a bright prospect and his performances at the Ospreys this season mean he fully deserves his opportunity. Dan is surrounded by experience with Dwayne Peel and Jamie Roberts on either side of him which should help further smooth his transition to international rugby.
"Tom James has another chance to show us what he can do and Sam Warburton has been knocking on the door for some time after impressing the coaches on tour to North America this summer.
"But elsewhere we have maintained a consistency in selection and we will be looking to put a performance in on Friday night that will help create the momentum to finish of this series with wins and build on what we achieved for large parts of the game against New Zealand."
WALES: James Hook; Leigh Halfpenny, Tom Shanklin, Jamie Roberts, Tom James, Dan Biggar, Dwayne Peel; Gethin Jenkins, Huw Bennett, Paul James, Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Andy Powell, Sam Warburton, Ryan Jones (Capt)
Replacements: Matthew Rees, Craig Mitchell, Bradley Davies, Jonathan Thomas, Martin Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Morgan Stoddart
WALES
15 James HOOK (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,047)
DoB: 27.06.85. 6'0" / 1.83m. 14st 12lbs / 94kgs
International record: 34 caps (W 14, L 19, D 1; 209 pts - 6T,34C,35PG,2DG)
14 Leigh HALFPENNY (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,060)
DoB: 22.12.88. 5'10" / 1.77m. 13st 1lb / 83kgs
International record: 7 caps (W 3, L 4; 26 pts - 4T, 2PG)
13 Tom SHANKLIN (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 993)
DoB: 24.11.79. 6'2" / 1.88m. 15st 9lbs / 99kgs
International record: 64 caps (W 30, L 33, D 1; 100 pts - 20T)
12 Jamie ROBERTS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,057)
DoB: 08.11.86. 6'4" / 1.93m. 16st 10lbs / 107kgs
International record: 13 caps (W 6, L 7; 5 pts - 1T)
11 Tom JAMES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,055)
DoB: 17.04.87. 6'2" / 1.88m. 15st 1lb / 96kgs
International record: 5 caps (W 2, L 3; 10 pts - 2T)
10 Dan BIGGAR (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,063)
DoB: 16.10.89. 6'2" / 1.88m. 13st 9lbs / 87kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 3; 35 pts - 7C, 7PG)
9 Dwayne PEEL (SALE SHARKS - Cap No 994)
DoB: 31.08.81. 5'9" / 1.76m. 13st 8lbs / 86kgs
International record: 69 caps (W 32, L 35, D 2; 25 pts - 5T)
1 Gethin JENKINS (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,006)
DoB: 17.11.80. 6'2" / 1.88m. 18st 13lbs / 120kgs
International record: 69 caps (W 29, L 38, D 2; 15 pts - 3T)
2 Huw BENNETT (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,017)
DoB: 11.06.83. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 0lbs / 108kgs
International record: 24 caps (W 14, L 10)
3 Paul JAMES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,021)
DoB: 13.05.82. 6'1" / 1.86m. 17st 7lbs / 111kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 1, L 1)
4 Alun-Wyn JONES (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,046)
DoB: 19.09.85. 6'5" / 1.96m. 19st 1lbs / 121kgs
International record: 32 caps (W 13, L 19; 20 pts - 4T)
5 Luke CHARTERIS (NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS - Cap No 1,030)
DoB: 09.03.83. 6'9" / 2.06m. 19st 9lbs / 125kgs
International record: 15 caps (W 8, L 7)
6 Andy POWELL (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,061)
DoB: 23.08.81. 6'4" / 1.94m. 17st 6lbs / 111kgs
International record: 9 caps (W 5, L 4)
7 Sam WARBURTON (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,070)
DoB: 05.10.88. 1.88m / 6'2". 15st 9lbs / 99kgs
International record: 1 cap (W 1)
8 Ryan JONES (OSPREYS, CAPTAIN - Cap No 1,029)
DoB: 13.03.81. 6'5" / 1.96m. 18st 0lbs / 114kgs
International record: 34 caps (W 19, L 14, D 1; 5 pts - 1T)
REPLACEMENTS
16 Matthew REES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,033)
DoB: 09.12.80. 6'0" / 1.83m. 17st 1lbs / 108kgs
International record: 31 caps (W 14, L 16, D 1; 10 pts - 2T)
17 Craig MITCHELL (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,068)
DoB: 03.05.86. 6'1" / 1.85m. 17st 2lbs / 109kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 2)
18 Bradley DAVIES (CARDIFF BLUES - Cap No 1,065)
DoB: 09.01.87. 6'6" / 1.98m. 18st 1lb / 115kgs
International record: 4 caps (W 3, L 1)
19 Jonathan THOMAS (OSPREYS - Cap No 1,013)
DoB: 27.12.82. 6'5" / 1.96m. 17st 5lbs / 110kgs
International record: 47 caps (W 23, L 22, D 2; 35 pts - 7T)
20 Martin ROBERTS (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,062)
DoB: 06.06.86. 5'9" / 1.76m. 12st 1lb / 77kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 1, L 1)
21 Jonathan DAVIES (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,066)
DoB: 05.04.88. 6'1" / 1.86m. 16st 3lbs / 103kgs
International record: 2 caps (W 2; 10 pts - 2T)
22 Morgan STODDART (SCARLETS - Cap No 1,056)
DoB: 23.09.84. 6'1" / 1.86m. 14st 13lbs / 95kgs
International record: 3 caps (W 1, L 2; 10 pts - 2T)
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
9.11.09
09.11.09 WRU UNVEIL PERMANENT TRIBUTE TO RAY GRAVELL
09.11.09 WRU UNVEIL PERMANENT TRIBUTE TO RAY GRAVELL
*Pictures available from Huw Evans Agency (02920 764311)
A permanent tribute to the rugby international and renowned broadcaster, Ray Gravell, has been unveiled at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff by the WRU.
The press conference suite, where journalists, photographers and cameramen gather to interview coaches and players, has been renamed 'The Ray Gravell Room' in his honour.
The tribute has been bestowed to signify the unique way he crossed the well trodden divide from player to broadcaster and added to the reputation of Wales and our national sport.
The WRU decided the press conference room, where the worlds of rugby and journalism meet, was the ideal location for a tribute to the former Scarlet who died in 2007 aged 56.
Thousands of visitors to the Millennium Stadium will visit the room as part of the official guided tours which take place throughout each year.
Ray's widow Mari and their daughters Manon and Gwenan visited the Ray Gravell Room today (Saturday 7 November) to unveil the refurbished facility.
The room was formally opened by the Welsh Rugby Union President, Dennis Gethin, who headed up a WRU committee to plan the tribute. The Ray Gravell Room contains fourteen different wall mounted photographs of his life as a player for Llanelli, Wales and the British and Irish Lions along with his work as a broadcaster in English and Welsh.
Dennis Gethin said: "We are proud to be able to honour a man who gave so much to Wales and its people during his lifetime. He epitomised the true meaning of the word, ambassador, and championed the story of Wales, its culture, its heritage and its sporting traditions wherever he went.
"His success was based on his humanity and the standards of respect and honour he epitomised throughout his life and within all his endeavours. His memory deserves special recognition because he earned himself an important place in the social history of modern Wales as a true voice of the nation.
"Like so many people I am proud to have been able to call him a friend and I am delighted that Mari and their daughters, Manon and Gwenan, are able to join in this celebration of a wonderful man."
Ray Gravell won 23 Welsh caps and played in four British and Irish Lions test matches during a playing career in which he was also the youngest player in the Llanelli team which defeated the New Zealand All Blacks, 9-3, in 1972.
After retiring from the game in 1985 he became a broadcaster working mainly in sport but he also developed as an actor in films such as Rebecca's Daughter which starred Peter O'Toole and Damage with Jeremy Irons.
Mari Gravell said: "As a family we are proud and delighted that the Welsh Rugby Union is honouring Ray in this way.
"He was passionate about his support for rugby and he was extremely proud of the links he maintained with the sport through his work as a broadcaster. It is lovely to think that Ray's memory will live on in this formal way within the stadium where he spent so much of his working life and enjoyed being part of so many wonderful rugby moments."
The Chairman of the Welsh Rugby Union, David Pickering, said: "The naming of a room after Ray at the Millennium Stadium is a fitting tribute to a wonderful man. I played alongside him for Llanelli and I was just 19 when he appointed me as his vice captain of that side. I also played in the same Llanelli team as Ray against Graham Mourie's All Blacks in 1980 so I have many fond memories of him as a wonderful friend and teammate.
"So many people share pleasant and positive memories of Ray and I think much of that is because he was such a genuine human being who possessed all the qualities which go to make a special person. He made his mark on sport in Wales, on the world of broadcasting and he certainly won over and impressed whoever he met around the world." "
The Group Chief Executive of the Welsh Rugby Union, Roger Lewis, added: "Ray Gravell played significant roles in two fields of expertise which feature powerfully in the story of this Millennium Stadium.
"He was part of its fabric throughout its ten year life and has written his own chapter in its iconic history. The values he epitomised were a virtual mirror of the values which are enshrined in our national sport.
"I am pleased that through this tribute to Ray future generations will learn valid lessons of the importance of remaining true to the values which dignify us all."
For further information, audio and pictures please contact Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James: gjames@wru.co.uk/ 07725828498.
*Pictures available from Huw Evans Agency (02920 764311)
A permanent tribute to the rugby international and renowned broadcaster, Ray Gravell, has been unveiled at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff by the WRU.
The press conference suite, where journalists, photographers and cameramen gather to interview coaches and players, has been renamed 'The Ray Gravell Room' in his honour.
The tribute has been bestowed to signify the unique way he crossed the well trodden divide from player to broadcaster and added to the reputation of Wales and our national sport.
The WRU decided the press conference room, where the worlds of rugby and journalism meet, was the ideal location for a tribute to the former Scarlet who died in 2007 aged 56.
Thousands of visitors to the Millennium Stadium will visit the room as part of the official guided tours which take place throughout each year.
Ray's widow Mari and their daughters Manon and Gwenan visited the Ray Gravell Room today (Saturday 7 November) to unveil the refurbished facility.
The room was formally opened by the Welsh Rugby Union President, Dennis Gethin, who headed up a WRU committee to plan the tribute. The Ray Gravell Room contains fourteen different wall mounted photographs of his life as a player for Llanelli, Wales and the British and Irish Lions along with his work as a broadcaster in English and Welsh.
Dennis Gethin said: "We are proud to be able to honour a man who gave so much to Wales and its people during his lifetime. He epitomised the true meaning of the word, ambassador, and championed the story of Wales, its culture, its heritage and its sporting traditions wherever he went.
"His success was based on his humanity and the standards of respect and honour he epitomised throughout his life and within all his endeavours. His memory deserves special recognition because he earned himself an important place in the social history of modern Wales as a true voice of the nation.
"Like so many people I am proud to have been able to call him a friend and I am delighted that Mari and their daughters, Manon and Gwenan, are able to join in this celebration of a wonderful man."
Ray Gravell won 23 Welsh caps and played in four British and Irish Lions test matches during a playing career in which he was also the youngest player in the Llanelli team which defeated the New Zealand All Blacks, 9-3, in 1972.
After retiring from the game in 1985 he became a broadcaster working mainly in sport but he also developed as an actor in films such as Rebecca's Daughter which starred Peter O'Toole and Damage with Jeremy Irons.
Mari Gravell said: "As a family we are proud and delighted that the Welsh Rugby Union is honouring Ray in this way.
"He was passionate about his support for rugby and he was extremely proud of the links he maintained with the sport through his work as a broadcaster. It is lovely to think that Ray's memory will live on in this formal way within the stadium where he spent so much of his working life and enjoyed being part of so many wonderful rugby moments."
The Chairman of the Welsh Rugby Union, David Pickering, said: "The naming of a room after Ray at the Millennium Stadium is a fitting tribute to a wonderful man. I played alongside him for Llanelli and I was just 19 when he appointed me as his vice captain of that side. I also played in the same Llanelli team as Ray against Graham Mourie's All Blacks in 1980 so I have many fond memories of him as a wonderful friend and teammate.
"So many people share pleasant and positive memories of Ray and I think much of that is because he was such a genuine human being who possessed all the qualities which go to make a special person. He made his mark on sport in Wales, on the world of broadcasting and he certainly won over and impressed whoever he met around the world." "
The Group Chief Executive of the Welsh Rugby Union, Roger Lewis, added: "Ray Gravell played significant roles in two fields of expertise which feature powerfully in the story of this Millennium Stadium.
"He was part of its fabric throughout its ten year life and has written his own chapter in its iconic history. The values he epitomised were a virtual mirror of the values which are enshrined in our national sport.
"I am pleased that through this tribute to Ray future generations will learn valid lessons of the importance of remaining true to the values which dignify us all."
For further information, audio and pictures please contact Millennium Stadium communications manager Gemma James: gjames@wru.co.uk/ 07725828498.
5.11.09
05.11.09 Three now becomes FIVE! GOGS making it big!
I see that the Ospreys as well as having James King in their squad to play Northampton tonight also have Cai Griffiths starting.
That means 5 North Walians playing regional Rugby this weekend.
That means 5 North Walians playing regional Rugby this weekend.
05.11.09 THE CARDIFF ARMS
Issued: 05 November, 2009
GATLAND OPENS NEW CITY GATEWAY TO WRU - THE CARDIFF ARMS
Wales coach Warren Gatland today officially opened the new WRU store, bar and cafe at No 8 Westgate Street - now to be known as The Cardiff Arms.
The name is synonymous with Welsh rugby as the original Cardiff Arms Hotel, which resided on the site of the current Angel Hotel at the Castle end of Westgate Street, famously lent its name to Wales' greatest sporting venue which was to become home to the Welsh rugby team from 1884.
The National Ground, and now the Millennium Stadium, were both built on the Cardiff Arms Park site, which was an area of land bequeathed to the city of Cardiff for sports and recreation by the Marquis of Bute. In using the name Cardiff Arms - the hotel was demolished in 1882 - the WRU is ensuring the name will remain at the heart of Welsh rugby.
The new Cardiff Arms store, bar and cafe will be the gateway to the Millennium Stadium and the WRU's head offices. It will also allow the WRU to bring the unique Millennium Stadium match and event-day experiences even closer to the City.
The venue will officially open to the public tomorrow (Friday, 6 November) at 10.00am, ahead of the first Test in the four-match Invesco Perpetual Series, between Wales and New Zealand.
For the opening weekend, the WRU have launched a brand new hospitality service in the cafe/bar area upstairs, with tickets available for the match against New Zealand (£199 pp).
The package for the All Blacks game this weekend includes a premium location match ticket, complimentary bar of beer, wine and soft drinks, limited edition gift and match programme and the internationally renowned rugby star Jonathan Davies as guest speaker.
The fully licensed bar, which has a capacity of 300, will open from 10.30am to 11.00pm on Thursdays and Fridays for the first month and when Wales clash with Argentina on Saturday 21 November and Australia on Saturday 28 November.
The general opening hours for the WRU store, the new base for Millennium Stadium tours, will be 10.00am until 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10.00am until 4.30pm on Sunday.
"This building is alongside the Millennium Stadium and really puts the Welsh Rugby Union right at the hub of the Cardiff City Centre," said WRU Group Finance Director Steve Phillips.
"The WRU will have a significant presence within the hustle and bustle of day-to-day City life with our fully stocked shop offering the entire range of our official merchandise and a bar/cafe which we hope will be a real 'must visit location' for City dwellers and visitors alike.
"The building is impressive, it is in a prime location and should become a thriving venue in a busy part of Cardiff by the week and on event days we also have great expectations of the match experience we will be able to offer."
The listed building, originally known as Jackson's racket club in the 1800s, has been leased on a long term basis. It has been completely renovated and will become a focal point for the many visitors - up to a thousand a week - who visit the Millennium Stadium.
An ever-changing array of rugby memorabilia will also be on display and the new 'public face' of Welsh rugby will be free to enter on non-event days, with the store area remaining open all year round.
"The first big match customers for the new building will be those fans who take up hospitality packages for the New Zealand game, which cost as little as £199 (excl. VAT) and guarantee premium tickets complimentary bar and the full Millennium Stadium experience," added Mr Phillips.
"Only a limited number of places are left for what is the last remaining official outlet for match tickets for the All Blacks fixture and the end of series clash with the Wallabies, with general tickets to both matches sold-out."
Hospitality packages are being sold this year, for the first time, on an individual basis with customers being offered the opportunity to share boxes, and, with extra tickets now available due to the opening of this new venue, fans have a unique opportunity to see history made when Warren Gatland's Wales take on the All Blacks, and receive VIP treatment at the same time.
If you are interested in purchasing hospitality for all games including this new venue, please call the hospitality team on: 08443 722722 or www.millenniumstadium.com/hospitality.
Remaining tickets for the Samoa and Argentina matches in the Series are available from www.wru.co.uk. Tickets for Wales v Samoa on Friday 13 November are priced at £15 for adults and £10 for children and tickets for Wales v Argentina on Saturday 21 November are available at £35, £45, £50 and £55.
For further information, contact WRU Communications Team:
Gemma James tel 07725 828498 / gjames@wru.co.uk
Simon Rimmer tel 07825981128 / srimmer@wru.co.uk
Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / llizjones@wru.co.uk
John Williams tel 07824 357083 / jwilliams@wru.co.uk
ends
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
© 2009 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use
GATLAND OPENS NEW CITY GATEWAY TO WRU - THE CARDIFF ARMS
Wales coach Warren Gatland today officially opened the new WRU store, bar and cafe at No 8 Westgate Street - now to be known as The Cardiff Arms.
The name is synonymous with Welsh rugby as the original Cardiff Arms Hotel, which resided on the site of the current Angel Hotel at the Castle end of Westgate Street, famously lent its name to Wales' greatest sporting venue which was to become home to the Welsh rugby team from 1884.
The National Ground, and now the Millennium Stadium, were both built on the Cardiff Arms Park site, which was an area of land bequeathed to the city of Cardiff for sports and recreation by the Marquis of Bute. In using the name Cardiff Arms - the hotel was demolished in 1882 - the WRU is ensuring the name will remain at the heart of Welsh rugby.
The new Cardiff Arms store, bar and cafe will be the gateway to the Millennium Stadium and the WRU's head offices. It will also allow the WRU to bring the unique Millennium Stadium match and event-day experiences even closer to the City.
The venue will officially open to the public tomorrow (Friday, 6 November) at 10.00am, ahead of the first Test in the four-match Invesco Perpetual Series, between Wales and New Zealand.
For the opening weekend, the WRU have launched a brand new hospitality service in the cafe/bar area upstairs, with tickets available for the match against New Zealand (£199 pp).
The package for the All Blacks game this weekend includes a premium location match ticket, complimentary bar of beer, wine and soft drinks, limited edition gift and match programme and the internationally renowned rugby star Jonathan Davies as guest speaker.
The fully licensed bar, which has a capacity of 300, will open from 10.30am to 11.00pm on Thursdays and Fridays for the first month and when Wales clash with Argentina on Saturday 21 November and Australia on Saturday 28 November.
The general opening hours for the WRU store, the new base for Millennium Stadium tours, will be 10.00am until 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10.00am until 4.30pm on Sunday.
"This building is alongside the Millennium Stadium and really puts the Welsh Rugby Union right at the hub of the Cardiff City Centre," said WRU Group Finance Director Steve Phillips.
"The WRU will have a significant presence within the hustle and bustle of day-to-day City life with our fully stocked shop offering the entire range of our official merchandise and a bar/cafe which we hope will be a real 'must visit location' for City dwellers and visitors alike.
"The building is impressive, it is in a prime location and should become a thriving venue in a busy part of Cardiff by the week and on event days we also have great expectations of the match experience we will be able to offer."
The listed building, originally known as Jackson's racket club in the 1800s, has been leased on a long term basis. It has been completely renovated and will become a focal point for the many visitors - up to a thousand a week - who visit the Millennium Stadium.
An ever-changing array of rugby memorabilia will also be on display and the new 'public face' of Welsh rugby will be free to enter on non-event days, with the store area remaining open all year round.
"The first big match customers for the new building will be those fans who take up hospitality packages for the New Zealand game, which cost as little as £199 (excl. VAT) and guarantee premium tickets complimentary bar and the full Millennium Stadium experience," added Mr Phillips.
"Only a limited number of places are left for what is the last remaining official outlet for match tickets for the All Blacks fixture and the end of series clash with the Wallabies, with general tickets to both matches sold-out."
Hospitality packages are being sold this year, for the first time, on an individual basis with customers being offered the opportunity to share boxes, and, with extra tickets now available due to the opening of this new venue, fans have a unique opportunity to see history made when Warren Gatland's Wales take on the All Blacks, and receive VIP treatment at the same time.
If you are interested in purchasing hospitality for all games including this new venue, please call the hospitality team on: 08443 722722 or www.millenniumstadium.com/hospitality.
Remaining tickets for the Samoa and Argentina matches in the Series are available from www.wru.co.uk. Tickets for Wales v Samoa on Friday 13 November are priced at £15 for adults and £10 for children and tickets for Wales v Argentina on Saturday 21 November are available at £35, £45, £50 and £55.
For further information, contact WRU Communications Team:
Gemma James tel 07725 828498 / gjames@wru.co.uk
Simon Rimmer tel 07825981128 / srimmer@wru.co.uk
Liz Jones tel 07736 056669 / llizjones@wru.co.uk
John Williams tel 07824 357083 / jwilliams@wru.co.uk
ends
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
© 2009 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use
05.11.09 New Coach for WALES
WRU PRESS RELEASE
Issued: 05 November 2009
(To listen to audio with Adam Beard follow this link http://www.wru.co.uk/22548.php for the audio file and/or relevant picture please request to srimmer@wru.co.uk)
NEW COACH FOR WALES RUGBY
The Wales national rugby team has unveiled its latest signing - National squad strength and conditioning coach Adam Beard, who first reported for duty at the WRU National Centre of Excellence training camp last week.
Beard joins Wales from the institute of sport in Qatar. He has a background in elite sport in Australia, including working at the prestigious Australian institute of sport, rugby league and Aussie Rules Football.
He also spent 2 years with English Institute of Sport / UK Athletics working on strength and conditioning for the GB team athletes at the 2004 Athens Olympics
National squad physical performance manager, Craig White, has appointed Beard, an integral member of his department, in time to aid preparations for Wales' Invesco Perpetual Series opener against New Zealand on Saturday.
The Australian born fitness expert said he is impressed by the facilities at WRU headquarters as well as the general attitude of Wales' rugby stars.
Beard said: "The players here have been very receptive and they work hard, there is no arrogance there, they know that it is only hard work and listening to the expert advice that will get them where they want to go.
"I've fitted in really well already, but the next step is to see where I can add to things. Strength and conditioning needs to be more and more individualised all the time, it's not just about a relentless obsession to keep fit, but about improving in key areas."
Beard has been a consultant to South African rugby as well as working for the sports institutes in both Australia and England, but most recently has been involved in a national sports programme in Qatar.
"I've been working for a national programme called Aspire in the middle east mainly on strength and conditioning in the areas of track and field, but I have a background in Australia in rugby league, with the Western Reds and in Aussie rules football with the Fremantle Dockers," added Beard.
"In 2003 I worked with the English institute and then later for UK Athletics, working through to Athens with the Great Britain Athletics team.
"I think one of the key things I can bring to this team, and I suspect what Craig White was looking for when he interviewed for this position, is a different skill set to compliment what is already here.
"I'm going to be looking very much at the mechanics of the athletes we have here and how can make them even more efficient and even faster on the pitch."
WRU national squad performance manager Craig White added:
"I'm delighted to welcome Adam on board. He is an extremely well respected practitioner in his field and brings with him an invaluable amount of expertise in coaching strength and conditioning in top class athletes.
"Rugby is something of a hybrid sport with an array of skill sets necessary and competing demands on the body. Adam's knowledge of athletics, track and field and his extensive back ground in a variety of other sports will be an asset to Welsh rugby."
For further information please contact:
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
Ends.
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
© 2009 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use
Issued: 05 November 2009
(To listen to audio with Adam Beard follow this link http://www.wru.co.uk/22548.php for the audio file and/or relevant picture please request to srimmer@wru.co.uk)
NEW COACH FOR WALES RUGBY
The Wales national rugby team has unveiled its latest signing - National squad strength and conditioning coach Adam Beard, who first reported for duty at the WRU National Centre of Excellence training camp last week.
Beard joins Wales from the institute of sport in Qatar. He has a background in elite sport in Australia, including working at the prestigious Australian institute of sport, rugby league and Aussie Rules Football.
He also spent 2 years with English Institute of Sport / UK Athletics working on strength and conditioning for the GB team athletes at the 2004 Athens Olympics
National squad physical performance manager, Craig White, has appointed Beard, an integral member of his department, in time to aid preparations for Wales' Invesco Perpetual Series opener against New Zealand on Saturday.
The Australian born fitness expert said he is impressed by the facilities at WRU headquarters as well as the general attitude of Wales' rugby stars.
Beard said: "The players here have been very receptive and they work hard, there is no arrogance there, they know that it is only hard work and listening to the expert advice that will get them where they want to go.
"I've fitted in really well already, but the next step is to see where I can add to things. Strength and conditioning needs to be more and more individualised all the time, it's not just about a relentless obsession to keep fit, but about improving in key areas."
Beard has been a consultant to South African rugby as well as working for the sports institutes in both Australia and England, but most recently has been involved in a national sports programme in Qatar.
"I've been working for a national programme called Aspire in the middle east mainly on strength and conditioning in the areas of track and field, but I have a background in Australia in rugby league, with the Western Reds and in Aussie rules football with the Fremantle Dockers," added Beard.
"In 2003 I worked with the English institute and then later for UK Athletics, working through to Athens with the Great Britain Athletics team.
"I think one of the key things I can bring to this team, and I suspect what Craig White was looking for when he interviewed for this position, is a different skill set to compliment what is already here.
"I'm going to be looking very much at the mechanics of the athletes we have here and how can make them even more efficient and even faster on the pitch."
WRU national squad performance manager Craig White added:
"I'm delighted to welcome Adam on board. He is an extremely well respected practitioner in his field and brings with him an invaluable amount of expertise in coaching strength and conditioning in top class athletes.
"Rugby is something of a hybrid sport with an array of skill sets necessary and competing demands on the body. Adam's knowledge of athletics, track and field and his extensive back ground in a variety of other sports will be an asset to Welsh rugby."
For further information please contact:
Simon Rimmer
Wales National Squad Communications Manager
WRU Group, Millennium Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
Email (inc blackberry): srimmer@wru.co.uk
M: 07825 981 128
Tel (switchboard): 02920 822000
Ends.
This press release was produced by Sotic Ltd.
© Copyright Welsh Rugby Union. All rights reserved.
© 2009 Microsoft Privacy Terms of use
05.11.09 Autumn Series Update
SEE ATTACHED FILE FOR FURTHER STORIES
THE INVESCO PERPETUAL SERIES '09 KICKS-OFF ON SATURDAY WITH WALES' CLASH WITH THE ALL BLACKS.
SAMOA ARE NEXT ON THE LIST AND IN THE THIRD UPDATE FROM THE WRU WE LOOK BACK AT A BRUISING ENCOUNTER IN 1991 AND ASSESS THE CURRENT SQUAD.
APOLLO MISSION WRECKS WALES' 1991 WORLD CUP
Sunday, 6 October, 1991 - A never-to-be-forgotten day in Samoan rugby history. Conversely, a day of high cost to Welsh rugby both on and off the pitch.
It was the day when Welsh rugby fans were told that it was just as well Wales hadn't been playing the whole of Samoa as Peter Fatialofa's men came to Cardiff and produced a stunning 16-13 Rugby World Cup victory at the National Ground, Cardiff Arms Park.
It was a seismic result and one which not only put Samoan rugby on the world map, but which also propelled a few of their players into the lime light.
What a team 'Fats' had under his control. Brian Lima, Frank Bunce and Stephen Bachop were in the back line and up front were Pat Lam and Apollo Perelini.
Lam, Bachop and Lima would return to haunt and taunt Wales further at the 1999 World Cup.
But on the day, it was the one man wrecking machine that was Perelini that did the most damage as he sent three Welsh players to hospital.
The youngest of eight children, Perelini was actually christened Apollo 11 by his parents because he was born on the same day as the launch of the famous American space craft that took the first men to the moon in 1969. Since then he has earned a living by putting opponents into orbit as one of the world's most feared tacklers in both codes of rugby.
On that sunny Sunday afternoon in 1991 he left a lasting impression on Ieuan Evans' side as he:
• Broke the shoulder of lock Phil May when the Welshman ran straight into him and put him out of the rest of the tournament
• Wrenched the shoulder of Richie Collins in another head on tackle that ended the flanker's World Cup
• Bruised full back Tony Clement from head to toe in one of the most ferocious tackles ever seen at the Arms Park and forced him to miss the next game
"Samoans are built for running and built for tackling. We are solidly built in the upper body and we like to use that strength," said Perelini, now head of sport at a school in Dubai.
"We aren't built for tactical things and perhaps that is why we are so direct in our play. We thrive on hurting people in the tackle and we love to show our physical superiority in that way - we don't fear anyone.
"We are physically tough and we love contact sports. To go out there and make a big hit means you are making a big impression on the opposition.
"When we beat Wales in the 1991 World Cup it was the highlight of my union career. The response from the Welsh crowd and people to us during our stay
was incredible."
Most of the Welsh fans were stunned by the ferocity of the Samoan tackling and the impact it had on their opponents. Here is Perelini's account of his three K-O's in that game.
"I always feel good about myself when I put in a big tackle. It is a significant contribution to a game," he said.
"I suppose the tackle on Anthony Clement was my best ever in international rugby. I'm not a dirty player and when I hurt someone I always show concern.
"As soon as I had got up from hitting him I looked down and asked if he was OK. I could see he was hurt because he was clutching his ribs.
"I was running down the touchline and I could see that Wales had an overlap. Clement was carrying the ball, I could see him but I don't think he spotted me.
"I went in to meet him as hard as I could and he was going at 100 mph - it was some collision. I got up and he didn't."
In fact Clement had to be helped of the field during the half-time interval with bruises to his leg, hip and shoulder. It was almost three days before he could walk properly and he missed the match against Argentina.
It was even worse for May and Collins. Their World Cup dreams were shattered by the Samoan's shoulders.
"I was always taught in Samoa to tackle with the shoulder and a lot of guys get hurt because they don't go in properly. With May and Collins I just hit them as hard as I could with my shoulder," he added.
"May was carrying the ball and I hit him as he dipped into me and bust his shoulder. Collins also came into me and I just hit him straight on and did his shoulder as well."
Wales 13 Western Samoa 16 - HT: 3-3 Attendance: 45,000
Wales: T Clement; I Evans [capt], S Gibbs, M Hall, A Emyr; M Ring, R Jones;
M Griffiths, K Waters, L Delaney, P May, K Moseley, E Lewis, P Davies,
R Collins
Replacements: M Rayer for T Clement; M Morris for P May; G Jenkins for R Collins.
Scorers: Tries: I Evans, A Emyr; Con: M Ring; Pen: M Ring
Western Samoa: P Schutte; B Lima, T Vaega, F Bunce, T Tagaloa; S Bachop, M Vaea; P Fatialofa [capt], S To'omalatai, V Alalatoa, M Birtwhistle, M Keenan, S Vaifale, P Lam, A Perelini
Scorers: Tries: T Vaega, S Vaifale; Con: M Vaea; Pens: M Vaea (2)
Referee: Patrick Robin (France)
TICKET UPDATE .... TICKET UPDATE .... TICKET UPDATE ....
Over 40,000 tickets have been sold for Wales v Samoa and over 50,000 for Wales v Argentina.
Tickets for Samoa are just £15 for adults and £10 for juniors. Tickets available by calling 08444 777888 or by going to www.wru.co.uk/tickets, from Ticketline on Westgate Street, Cardiff (02920 230130), and check the WRU website for information on how to purchase tickets on match day.
ENDS
THE INVESCO PERPETUAL SERIES '09 KICKS-OFF ON SATURDAY WITH WALES' CLASH WITH THE ALL BLACKS.
SAMOA ARE NEXT ON THE LIST AND IN THE THIRD UPDATE FROM THE WRU WE LOOK BACK AT A BRUISING ENCOUNTER IN 1991 AND ASSESS THE CURRENT SQUAD.
APOLLO MISSION WRECKS WALES' 1991 WORLD CUP
Sunday, 6 October, 1991 - A never-to-be-forgotten day in Samoan rugby history. Conversely, a day of high cost to Welsh rugby both on and off the pitch.
It was the day when Welsh rugby fans were told that it was just as well Wales hadn't been playing the whole of Samoa as Peter Fatialofa's men came to Cardiff and produced a stunning 16-13 Rugby World Cup victory at the National Ground, Cardiff Arms Park.
It was a seismic result and one which not only put Samoan rugby on the world map, but which also propelled a few of their players into the lime light.
What a team 'Fats' had under his control. Brian Lima, Frank Bunce and Stephen Bachop were in the back line and up front were Pat Lam and Apollo Perelini.
Lam, Bachop and Lima would return to haunt and taunt Wales further at the 1999 World Cup.
But on the day, it was the one man wrecking machine that was Perelini that did the most damage as he sent three Welsh players to hospital.
The youngest of eight children, Perelini was actually christened Apollo 11 by his parents because he was born on the same day as the launch of the famous American space craft that took the first men to the moon in 1969. Since then he has earned a living by putting opponents into orbit as one of the world's most feared tacklers in both codes of rugby.
On that sunny Sunday afternoon in 1991 he left a lasting impression on Ieuan Evans' side as he:
• Broke the shoulder of lock Phil May when the Welshman ran straight into him and put him out of the rest of the tournament
• Wrenched the shoulder of Richie Collins in another head on tackle that ended the flanker's World Cup
• Bruised full back Tony Clement from head to toe in one of the most ferocious tackles ever seen at the Arms Park and forced him to miss the next game
"Samoans are built for running and built for tackling. We are solidly built in the upper body and we like to use that strength," said Perelini, now head of sport at a school in Dubai.
"We aren't built for tactical things and perhaps that is why we are so direct in our play. We thrive on hurting people in the tackle and we love to show our physical superiority in that way - we don't fear anyone.
"We are physically tough and we love contact sports. To go out there and make a big hit means you are making a big impression on the opposition.
"When we beat Wales in the 1991 World Cup it was the highlight of my union career. The response from the Welsh crowd and people to us during our stay
was incredible."
Most of the Welsh fans were stunned by the ferocity of the Samoan tackling and the impact it had on their opponents. Here is Perelini's account of his three K-O's in that game.
"I always feel good about myself when I put in a big tackle. It is a significant contribution to a game," he said.
"I suppose the tackle on Anthony Clement was my best ever in international rugby. I'm not a dirty player and when I hurt someone I always show concern.
"As soon as I had got up from hitting him I looked down and asked if he was OK. I could see he was hurt because he was clutching his ribs.
"I was running down the touchline and I could see that Wales had an overlap. Clement was carrying the ball, I could see him but I don't think he spotted me.
"I went in to meet him as hard as I could and he was going at 100 mph - it was some collision. I got up and he didn't."
In fact Clement had to be helped of the field during the half-time interval with bruises to his leg, hip and shoulder. It was almost three days before he could walk properly and he missed the match against Argentina.
It was even worse for May and Collins. Their World Cup dreams were shattered by the Samoan's shoulders.
"I was always taught in Samoa to tackle with the shoulder and a lot of guys get hurt because they don't go in properly. With May and Collins I just hit them as hard as I could with my shoulder," he added.
"May was carrying the ball and I hit him as he dipped into me and bust his shoulder. Collins also came into me and I just hit him straight on and did his shoulder as well."
Wales 13 Western Samoa 16 - HT: 3-3 Attendance: 45,000
Wales: T Clement; I Evans [capt], S Gibbs, M Hall, A Emyr; M Ring, R Jones;
M Griffiths, K Waters, L Delaney, P May, K Moseley, E Lewis, P Davies,
R Collins
Replacements: M Rayer for T Clement; M Morris for P May; G Jenkins for R Collins.
Scorers: Tries: I Evans, A Emyr; Con: M Ring; Pen: M Ring
Western Samoa: P Schutte; B Lima, T Vaega, F Bunce, T Tagaloa; S Bachop, M Vaea; P Fatialofa [capt], S To'omalatai, V Alalatoa, M Birtwhistle, M Keenan, S Vaifale, P Lam, A Perelini
Scorers: Tries: T Vaega, S Vaifale; Con: M Vaea; Pens: M Vaea (2)
Referee: Patrick Robin (France)
TICKET UPDATE .... TICKET UPDATE .... TICKET UPDATE ....
Over 40,000 tickets have been sold for Wales v Samoa and over 50,000 for Wales v Argentina.
Tickets for Samoa are just £15 for adults and £10 for juniors. Tickets available by calling 08444 777888 or by going to www.wru.co.uk/tickets, from Ticketline on Westgate Street, Cardiff (02920 230130), and check the WRU website for information on how to purchase tickets on match day.
ENDS
4.11.09
04.11.09 SWALEC Plate and Bowl Draws
SWALEC Bowl and Plate draws
3 November 2009, 5:09 pm
By WRU
The draw for the third round of the SWALEC Bowl and the draw for the second round of the SWALEC Bowl are as follows:
SWALEC BOWL 2009-2010
ROUND 3
To be played the weekend of 12th December 2009
1. Beaufort RFC v Bethesda RFC
2. Machynlleth RFC v Newtown RFC
3. Monmouth RFC v Crickhowell RFC
4. Tregaron RFC v Bala RFC
5. Amman Utd RFC v Blaenau RFC
6. Pembroke RFC v Fishguard & Goodwick RFC
7. Llangadog RFC v Llandybie RFC
8. Milford Haven RFC v Llansawel & District RFC
9. Pontarddulais RFC v Penygroes RFC
10. New Dock Stars RFC v Cwmgwrach RFC
11. Cwmtwrch RFC v Trebanos RFC
12. Birchgrove RFC v Penlan RFC
13. Vardre RFC v Glyncorrwg RFC
14. Crynant RFC v Pontardawe RFC
15. Bryncethin RFC v Maesteg Celtic RFC
16. Pyle RFC v Taibach RFC
17. Glyncoch RFC v Porthcawl RFC
18. Cambrian Welfare RFC v Penygraig RFC
19. Cefn Coed RFC v Bridgend Sports RFC
20. Porth RFC v Wattstown RFC
21. Senghenydd RFC v Old Penarthians RFC
22. Cardiff University RFC v Taffs Well RFC
23. Caerau Ely RFC v St Josephs RFC
24. Llanrumney RFC v Barry RFC
25. Risca RFC v Oakdale RFC
26. RTB Ebbw Vale RFC v Abercarn RFC
27. Abertillery BG RFC v Blackwood Stars RFC
28. Hafodyrynys RFC v Trinant RFC
29. Whiteheads RFC v Bettws (Newport) RFC
30. New Tredegar RFC v Chepstow RFC
31. Caerleon RFC v Talywain RFC
32. Ynysddu RFC v Blaenavon RFC
SWALEC PLATE 2009-2010
ROUND 2
To be played the weekend of 12th December 2009
1. Haverfordwest RFC v Laugharne RFC
2. Aberystwyth RFC v Llanybydder RFC
3. Newcastle Emlyn RFC v Kidwelly RFC
4. Crymych RFC v Lampeter RFC
5. Denbigh RFC v Llandudno RFC
6. Nant Conwy RFC v Mold RFC
7. Ruthin RFC v Pwllheli RFC
8. Caernarvon RFC v Bro Ffestiniog RFC
9. Penclawdd RFC v Mumbles RFC
10. Ammanford RFC v Morriston RFC
11. Pontyberem RFC v Loughor RFC
12. Waunarlwydd RFC v Dunvant RFC
13. Aberavon Quins RFC v Brynamman RFC
14. Bryncoch RFC v Cwmavon RFC
15. Ystalyfera RFC v Skewen RFC
16. Glynneath RFC v BP Llandarcy RFC
17. Maesteg Quins RFC v Treorchy RFC
18. Treherbert RFC v Kenfig Hill RFC
19. Tondu RFC v Nantyffyllon RFC
20. Maesteg RFC v Llantrisant RFC
21. Pentyrch RFC v Fairwater RFC
22. Heol y Cyw RFC v Llandaff North RFC
23. Tylorstown RFC v Gilfach Goch RFC
24. Mountain Ash RFC v Llantwit Fardre RFC
25. Penarth RFC v St Peters RFC
26. Penallta RFC v Llanishen RFC
27. Ynysybwl RFC v Rhydyfelin RFC
28. Aberdare RFC v Rhymney RFC
29. Brynmawr RFC v Cwmbran RFC
30. Garndiffaith RFC v Abergavenny RFC
31. Tredegar Ironsides RFC v Croesyceiliog RFC
32. Gwernyfed RFC v Newport HSOB RFC
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3 November 2009, 5:09 pm
By WRU
The draw for the third round of the SWALEC Bowl and the draw for the second round of the SWALEC Bowl are as follows:
SWALEC BOWL 2009-2010
ROUND 3
To be played the weekend of 12th December 2009
1. Beaufort RFC v Bethesda RFC
2. Machynlleth RFC v Newtown RFC
3. Monmouth RFC v Crickhowell RFC
4. Tregaron RFC v Bala RFC
5. Amman Utd RFC v Blaenau RFC
6. Pembroke RFC v Fishguard & Goodwick RFC
7. Llangadog RFC v Llandybie RFC
8. Milford Haven RFC v Llansawel & District RFC
9. Pontarddulais RFC v Penygroes RFC
10. New Dock Stars RFC v Cwmgwrach RFC
11. Cwmtwrch RFC v Trebanos RFC
12. Birchgrove RFC v Penlan RFC
13. Vardre RFC v Glyncorrwg RFC
14. Crynant RFC v Pontardawe RFC
15. Bryncethin RFC v Maesteg Celtic RFC
16. Pyle RFC v Taibach RFC
17. Glyncoch RFC v Porthcawl RFC
18. Cambrian Welfare RFC v Penygraig RFC
19. Cefn Coed RFC v Bridgend Sports RFC
20. Porth RFC v Wattstown RFC
21. Senghenydd RFC v Old Penarthians RFC
22. Cardiff University RFC v Taffs Well RFC
23. Caerau Ely RFC v St Josephs RFC
24. Llanrumney RFC v Barry RFC
25. Risca RFC v Oakdale RFC
26. RTB Ebbw Vale RFC v Abercarn RFC
27. Abertillery BG RFC v Blackwood Stars RFC
28. Hafodyrynys RFC v Trinant RFC
29. Whiteheads RFC v Bettws (Newport) RFC
30. New Tredegar RFC v Chepstow RFC
31. Caerleon RFC v Talywain RFC
32. Ynysddu RFC v Blaenavon RFC
SWALEC PLATE 2009-2010
ROUND 2
To be played the weekend of 12th December 2009
1. Haverfordwest RFC v Laugharne RFC
2. Aberystwyth RFC v Llanybydder RFC
3. Newcastle Emlyn RFC v Kidwelly RFC
4. Crymych RFC v Lampeter RFC
5. Denbigh RFC v Llandudno RFC
6. Nant Conwy RFC v Mold RFC
7. Ruthin RFC v Pwllheli RFC
8. Caernarvon RFC v Bro Ffestiniog RFC
9. Penclawdd RFC v Mumbles RFC
10. Ammanford RFC v Morriston RFC
11. Pontyberem RFC v Loughor RFC
12. Waunarlwydd RFC v Dunvant RFC
13. Aberavon Quins RFC v Brynamman RFC
14. Bryncoch RFC v Cwmavon RFC
15. Ystalyfera RFC v Skewen RFC
16. Glynneath RFC v BP Llandarcy RFC
17. Maesteg Quins RFC v Treorchy RFC
18. Treherbert RFC v Kenfig Hill RFC
19. Tondu RFC v Nantyffyllon RFC
20. Maesteg RFC v Llantrisant RFC
21. Pentyrch RFC v Fairwater RFC
22. Heol y Cyw RFC v Llandaff North RFC
23. Tylorstown RFC v Gilfach Goch RFC
24. Mountain Ash RFC v Llantwit Fardre RFC
25. Penarth RFC v St Peters RFC
26. Penallta RFC v Llanishen RFC
27. Ynysybwl RFC v Rhydyfelin RFC
28. Aberdare RFC v Rhymney RFC
29. Brynmawr RFC v Cwmbran RFC
30. Garndiffaith RFC v Abergavenny RFC
31. Tredegar Ironsides RFC v Croesyceiliog RFC
32. Gwernyfed RFC v Newport HSOB RFC
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