With this perfect cricket weather over recent weeks local rugby might seem a million miles off but clubs from Narberth to St Davids are back working on their fitness before getting down to the basic skills they need in their respective divisions.
 
Most clubs have sorted out their management roles but Tenby United and Pembroke Dock Harlequins have still to complete theirs – and although there are rumours abounding about player movement across the county there are still quite a few weeks to go.
 
But we thought we would give you an update in our inimitable style – and provide a detailed analysis two weeks before rugby gets under way for 2018/19!
 

Championship Division:

 

Narberth RFC

Narberth had a fantastic season in the Championship Division of Welsh Rugby as they finished second to Pontypool in a very tough section but The Otters know that they cannot afford to be complacent and director of rugby Sean Gale has been busy during the short closed season, linking with the likes of Dorian Phillips, Bill Ridge, Rob ‘Basher’ Lewis and others to utilise the current squad strength whilst recruiting other players.

One of the best pieces of news from The Lewis Lloyd Ground is that influential centre Jack Price is back, alongside Johnny and Matthew Morgan, plus Jake Baker, with others in the pipeline.

The influential Gale will have former player Deiniol Evans back in the fold as assistant coach after eight years with the Scarlets’ academy, alongside former director of coaching Jonathan Dodd as fitness coach, who will ensure the players are ready for action from the outset.

Also involved will be Chris ‘Cone’ James as team manager, back from his coaching role at Tenby with a decade of experience with The Otters as a previous captain and key player.

Alex Jenkins will again lead the team on the field as well as last season’s award winners Tom Powell (Players’ Player), Tom Slater (Coaches’ Player), Ianto Griffiths (Supporters’ player) and Ryan Banner (Most Improved Player).

“It is sure to be another exciting season’” coach Gale told us, “and it is already clear in training that everyone is eager for the forthcoming action.”

It is already clear that The Otters are going to be firing on all cylinders from the outset!

First four fixtures, starting on 2^nd September 2018:
Beddau (A); Newbridge (H); Rhydyfelin (A); Newcastle Emlyn (A)

 

PHOTO:
Sean Gale

 

Division One (West):

 

Crymych RFC

Crymych showed amazing character and commitment in the second half of last season to rise from almost-certain relegation to a healthy sixth place and coach Randall Williams will be eager to see his side start off positively in 2017/18.

This will be Williams’ second season at the helm and will use his immense experience as a key player at Whitland and Fishguard, where he also coached, alongside Carwyn Jones and former Welsh prop John Davies as respective backs and forwards’ coaches, whilst Iwan James continues as team manager and Adrian Howells is involved for the 24 season behind the scenes.

Rhys ‘Beaky’ Davies carries on as a very good captain but The Preseli Men know they face the perennial problem of losing players to clubs with more money: very frustrating after all the hard work on the conveyor belt from Ysgol y Preseli through the youth programme so successfully managed by Kevin Phillips and Tudor Harries.

“It is what it is,” admitted Williams, “and we just have to deal with it – we have started well in training and it is up to what is still a very able squad to produce the goods on the field now!”

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Tenby United (H); Aberystwyth (A); Whitland (A); Felinfoel (H)
 
 

Whitland RFC

After a terrific run last season The Borderers were worthy winners of Division Two (West) ahead of Yr Hendy and both now take on some very good sides, including Crymych and Tenby United in Division One (West) with appetising local derbies as an early highlight for local rugby fans to savour.

Understandably, it is very much a case of the status quo being maintained as Gareth Bennett and Daniel Mason continue as coaches and with former Narberth follower Gregg Morris as team manager and sure to be a good support.

"We know we face a tough new challenge," admitted coach Bennett, "but the club is on a solid footing and we look to build again so we are all looking forward to getting going now, in September.”

Marc Jones was an inspirational skipper last season and continues to lead the team from his berth as hooker, with almost all last year's squad being supplemented by the return of Zac France-Miller and Rhys Sivorney, with the prospect of some good Pembrokeshire players joining from the lower divisions it is all systems go at Parc Llwyn Ty Gwyn!

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Gorseinon (H); Tenby United (A); Crymych (H); Yr Hendy (A)

PHOTO:
Gareth Bennett

 

Tenby United RFC

 
Tenby United had 32 players at their first training session under the leadership of Jonathan Evans, Ossie Boswell, Jason Ronowitz and Henry Boot, so numbers bode well for the new campaign in Division One (West) but at the time of going to press there was no news as yet about who will take on the role of head coach at Heywood Lane.

A club spokesman said that after the stepping down of Chris James and Andrew Morgan there were several irons in the fire but with no decisions made as yet because The Seasiders want to make sure they get the right man.

Last season saw The Seasiders do well to fight off the spectre of relegation after at one time looking candidates for the ‘Dreaded Drop’ saw the club knows the importance of a better start to this campaign, especially with such difficult early fixtures that see them have two local derbies against Crymych and Whitland to start them off!

We will certainly let you know when we have more news!

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Crymych (A); Whitland (H); Hendy (A); Gowerton (H)
 
 

Division Two (West):

 

Fishguard & Goodwick RFC

After seven years as head coach at The Moors coach Huw Evans has decided it is time to stand down and Nathan Jenkins, his assistant of last year, will take over the head coach’s duties with Simon James also involved as a player coach in another year of Division Two (West) rugby.

Min Walsh steps down as team manager after doing such a great job last season and it is thought that James Morgans and Peter ‘Rocket’ will give Messrs Jenkins and James all the help they can in the shared role.

James will continue to set the example on the field and Jenkins, who is hugely respected by players, officials and supporters alike, will bring his own brand of common-sense commitment that he showed so well over many years as a second row with The Seagulls.

“We did well to avoid relegation last season in what is a tough division, finishing ninth out of 12 teams after looking likely relegation candidates for a while,” said a club spokesman – and coaches Jenkins and James will be hopeful that players of the calibre of Chris Shousha stay, and eager to have their squad really fit for a more positive start than last campaign.

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Loughor (A); Pembroke (H); Burry Port (H); Tumble (A)

PHOTO:
Nathan Jenkins

 
 

Pembroke RFC

It is very much a case of ‘as you were’ at Crickmarren and rightly so since last season was the most memorable in the Pembroke’s history as they comfortably won the Division Three (West) A title, came runners up in the KO Cup to Aberystwyth and, perhaps most memorable of all, played at the Principality Stadium in the Welsh Bowl Competition before an agonising last-kick defeat against Porthcawl.

Small wonder then that 150 guests attended their annual dinner and looked back on a campaign where Geraint Lewis did a brilliant job as coach and Scott Powell inspired the players as skipper – and this duo are again at the helm for the forthcoming season in the tough Division Two (West) section.

“I will never forget the season,” admitted coach Lewis, “but it’s in the past now and we want to get off to a good start in what is a tough section.”

Lewis will again have Kyle Davies as a very experienced forwards’ coach and Nick Shiels continues as team manager; and they are understandably delighted that all of last year’s players are again available – with more good news in the fact that powerhouse centre Mark ‘Pello’ Williams is going to be back in action after two years of studying for his M.A.

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
St Clears (H); Fishguard & Goodwick (A); Carmarthen Athletic (A); Tumble (A)

PHOTO:
Geraint Lewis

 

Division Three (West) A:

 

Haverfordwest RFC

After a disappointing 2016/17 season The Blues have enlisted former player Steve Barnett as new head coach and ‘Barney’ will be joined in the coaching set up by Simon Gardiner as forwards coach with Richard Brazell in charge of fitness.

Also involved will be Simon Lepetit as Assistant Forwards Coach and there is already an air of optimism as Pembroke Road because several players return to the fold.

These include Steve’s sons Craig and Jamie alongside the rejuvenated Matthew Clark, Jack Clancy and Jonathan Mason, plus Jamie Plumb, a 24 year old doctor just starting at Withybush Hospital, with Adam Clark also hoping to have a few games whenever he is at home.

“The players know that I will demand total commitment to the club and I have been delighted by the response in training because we have four fascinating fixtures to start us off.”

‘Barney’ is hugely respected across the county and with  all of last season’s players ready for training The Blues will hope to feature in the promotion race for this new campaign.

First four fixtures, starting on 1^st September 2018:
Llangwm (H); Milford Haven (A); Pembroke Dock Harlequins (H); St Davids (H)

PHOTO:
Steve Barnett

 

Milford Haven RFC

The Mariners threatened in the promotion race last season and will be looking to move up a section with new coaches but with the nucleus of last year's squad very much involved.

Back at The Observatory Field as head coach is Nathan 'Gully' Williams, who finally decided to step down as a regular player after an impressive rugby pedigree which included playing for Wales at all levels, plus the Wales Under 21s, Llanelli, Scarlets, Moseley, Newport Gwent Dragons before finishing off with Carmarthen Quins in the Welsh Premiership.

“I am eager to start well now that my family and I are back at home and I am delighted that Steve Martin has agreed to be my backs’ coach. Lee Riley has also said yes to being team manager despite carrying on playing at least for this campaign.”

The Mariners have already been training for a while in readiness for what looks like being a lively start and several players have already told us that Messrs Williams and Martin have really put them through their paces.

“I didn’t think we had really started yet and were just warming up,” said coach Williams with a chuckle!

First four fixtures, starting on 1^st September 2018:
Pembroke Dock Harlequins (A); Haverfordwest (H); St Davids (A); Laugharne (H)

 PHOTO:
Nathan Williams

 

Neyland RFC

Last season saw a number of very talented young players break into the All Blacks’ squad and they ended up in a creditable sixth place as reward for their excellent second half of the campaign under Steve Martin as player/coach.

But this year sees Graham Richards and Steve Evans in harness at the Athletic Ground with Richards as a hugely respected and experienced coach and Evans being responsible for the youth team coaching that has seen so many talented teenagers break through because of his expertise.

They will be joined by Peter ‘Jack’ Davies as team manager and two of those youngsters will be leading the All Blacks on the field in centre George Williams as captain and his co-centre Alex Codd as vice-captain. Mark James will be club captain after a number of years in charge on the field and if Neyland can play to their full potential this could be a rewarding season for them!

“We now have the basis of a very strong squad,” said Steve Evans, “with a blend of youth and experience, so if we get the hard work done in training we can carry on from our terrific run-in to last season.”





First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Tregaron (A); Pembroke Dock Harlequins (H); Llanybydder (H); Cardigan (A)



 

PHOTOS:
Graham Richards
Steve Evans

 

Llangwm RFC

It was a very tough season for Llangwm as they were unable to pick up a single victory from their league matches but still gave 100% every time and never once let their heads drop as Richard Scriven always made sure that they travelled with at least 15 players and helped create an air of camaraderie at Pill Parks which few clubs could better.

Scriven will be Hon Secretary this season but will be involved in doing anything he can to support coaches Bruce Evans and Robbie Neil, the former a hugely experienced coach who is sure to be an asset and the latter one of the most committed of Wasps’ players over a number of years.

New Zealand ‘import’ James ‘Kiwi’ Griffiths remains as a hard worker in the team manager’s post and hooker Gethin Lewis has been chosen as captain after playing most of last season’s matches despite having signed for Tenby.

“We are keen that the squad enjoys its rugby but are hoping for a few wins this season, with just a bit of luck,” admitted the chuckling Mr Scriven!

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Haverfordwest (A); St Davids (H); Laugharne (A); Aberaeron (H)

PHOTO:
Bruce Evans

 

St Davids RFC

Anyone who attended the recent St Davids dinner couldn’t help but be impressed by the huge camaraderie at the club which they hope will carry on to the pitch when The Saints go Marching in to this new campaign!

In 2017/18 they won two matches to ensure they didn’t take bottom spot and they will be hoping to add to that tally under new coach Ianto Davies, who was their top player again last season despite being far and away the oldest player in the squad.

Ianto will bring a sense of total commitment which will surely help The Saints as Rhys ‘Lossin’ Price will give him total support in his fifth successive season as captain, with ‘Old Warrior’ Jack Dudley continuing his role as team manager.

Also helping out in the coaching sessions when he can will be Fraser Watson – and a player returning to the club will be second row Dan Jenkins after a spell away from the city.

“Our first session was held on Whitesands Beach, dealing with fitness,” said skipper Price, “and next week sees us all popping across to Ramsey Island on my company’s boats to train there as a treat – so if any new players are about they would be welcome to join us!”

First four fixtures, starting on 1^st September 2018:
No game: Llangwm (A); Milford Haven (H); Haverfordwest (A)
 

PHOTO:
Ianto Davies 

 

Pembroke Dock Harlequins RFC

At the time of going to press it seems that the departure of Ossie Boswell has thrown a real spanner in the works at Bierspool because although Pembroke Dock Harlequins are considering their options coach-wise they have yet to appoint coaching staff.

It is a pity because Ossie brought on some very talented young players last season under the excellent leadership of Thomas Doyle but they often found it hard to raise anything like a full team for away games and it is to be hoped they find someone able to boost the fortunes of a terrific club, especially since they have such a challenging start to the season.

“As well as thinking of looking outside for experienced coaches we would love some of our former players to band together to pool their wealth of experience,” said a club spokesman, “and although it would need a lot of commitment it would be worthwhile for them and the club.”

So come on The Quins – let’s see you get back into the thick of things!

First four fixtures – starting on 1^st September 2018.
Milford Haven (H); Neyland (A); Haverfordwest (H); Llanybydder (H)

 

Cardigan RFC

Former outstanding back row forward Colin Davies will be in sole charge this season after previously sharing the duties with Matthew Moynahan and still managing to play in his share of what was a tough campaign for The Teifisiders.

But Davies was in bullish mood at the club’s annual dinner as he spoke passionately about what he wanted from the players in terms of hard training and commitment, as did new skipper John Lumb, who was outstanding in 2016/17.

“We have the talent now we need commitment,” Davies told us, and his view was echoed by skipper Lumb, who added, “sometimes we lost games we should have won and we cannot let that happen this year so it is up to us not to let our coaches down!”

Davies will have Neil Morris and Huw Davies as respective forwards and backs’ coaches, both already held in high esteem by the players, and it is hoped that they will be able to call on a stronger squad overall in  this season’s matches.

First four fixtures, starting on 1st September 2018:
Laugharne (A); Aberaeron (H); Tregaron (A); Neyland (H)

PHOTO:
Colin Davies