Youths play for country (From Free Press Series)

Youths play for country

YOUNGSTERS from Cwmbran RFC will be travelling to Ireland next month to embark on their first ever international rugby tour.

The festival, in Cork, sees Cwmbran under-14s representing the whole of Wales as they take on clubs from Scotland, England and hosts Ireland. But as team coach Gareth Gould explains, the cash-strapped club is keen to attract sponsors to help keep tour costs down.

He said: "We need to raise around £4,000 just to pay for the 21 players travelling and their accommodation. Any persons or business that could donate or sponsor this team would be very much appreciated."

Gareth's brother Jeff has been coaching the current crop of teenagers since they came together as an under-8s side. Gareth himself joined the coaching team two seasons ago. The pair are both ex-Cwmbran RFC senior players with over 60 years of rugby experience between them.

The juniors side, meanwhile, boasts a proud history of producing Gwent district players - including five in the current under-14s squad: Sam Gould, Mitch Walters, Joe Pengelly, Ross Paul and captain Rhys Cantelo.

In the last two years the boys have progressed to the District cup finals and are now entering a period of rebuilding; with an emphasis on development and coaching. For more information, including how to sponsor the Ireland tour, contact Gareth Gould on 01633 863233 or 07901 507129.