Rugby Club Issue 73 | Page 9

Newcastle Emlyn Youth “To be honest, without the mini, junior and youth section, this club would not be where it is today, and for the club to be a success in the future, this part of the set up needs to be a success or the club will not survive. This is evident in the current 1st team, with over twenty of the squad having played all the way through the age grades at the club. We try our best to make the transition into senior rugby as easy as possible by ensuring that the Youth Team trains with the 1st/2nd Team at numerous times during every season in order to get young players familiarised with the patterns of play before they are 18 years old. This scenario is very evident during every pre-season with playing members from the 1st team, 2nd team and Youth training regularly together during the first phase of pre-season training.” Progression “We as a club are very proud of the fact that we have produced players of the highest quality, with five of our past junior players currently playing rugby on a full-time basis with the Welsh Regions. Three of these players have already gained Full International Welsh Honours. Scott Williams - Scarlets – Wales International Gareth Davies – Scarlets – Wales International - British Lions (first ever Newcastle Emlyn RFC player to gain this honour) Josh Turnbull – Cardiff Blues – Wales International Gareth Thomas – Ospreys – Under 20s Cap – Welsh Senior Squad Member Steffan Thomas – Scarlets – Currently representing Wales at the Under 20s World Cup It was Peter Evans father who allowed Newcastle Emlyn RFC to play their first game back in 1977. In the past Peter has been a Director of Rugby at the club and is a current sponsor with his business Peter Evans Funeral Director. He told Rugby Club Magazine, “The committee, coaches and players have performed a marvellous job for the club. To have finished 5th in the Championship is some achievement. I would like to congratulate everyone associated with the club on their 40th year and wish them all the very best of continued success.” www.rugbyclubmag.com 9