Rugby
Last updated: 15 December 2008
The big teams might be in south Wales, but that doesn't mean the oval ball's not popular up here too. Whether you're a beginner, interested in finding a women's rugby team or want to check out your nearest club, read on.
North West Walians do make it to the top - read about our very own Robin McBryde's Grand Slam experiences ...
Club rugby
Most teams from north west Wales play in either Division 4 (North) or Division 5 (North) of the Welsh Rugby Union. All have at least a first and second team who generally play on a Saturday afternoon, with mid-week training.
Check out local rugby club websites.
In addition, Gogledd Cymru, a north Wales regional team, will be established at Eirias Park, Colwyn Bay. There is a possibility that this team will, in the future, become semi-professional and play in the Wales Premiership against sides such as Cardiff RFC, Swansea and Neath.
Youth
Each of NW Wales' counties have rugby development officers who promote rugby for the under 20s.
A great way to get involved in the game is mini rugby, for children between 8-11.
As well as taking part in activities at local clubs, juniors (11-16) have the chance to play for Eryri or North East counties schools. North Wales under 16s and under 18s also now play in the DRAG (Domestic Regional Age Group) against the other four regions of Wales
There is also an under 20s team which seek fixtures over the border in northern England.
Wheelchair rugby
Although there isn't a wheelchair rugby team here yet, the Welsh Wheelchair Rugby Association would be happy to support anyone who'd like to set up a team by offering coaching and equipment (See External Links).
More on rugby in North West Wales.
your comments
Holyhead RUFC
Come and visit us on Facebook.
Thu Jun 4 14:21:57 2009
Holyhead RFC
Thank you Shayne. We had a great day at the sevens. The club is moving forward and we have some new promising players. We are also trying very hard to develop a youth side. Please come and say hello to the lads on Facebook.
Fri Oct 24 15:46:08 2008
Shane Williams, Aberystwyth
Not "the" Shane Williams, but I was very impressed with the Holyhead rugby crowd at the recent rugby sevens tournament. I was impressed with their attitude and it looks like the future is bright for them. tTey had a number of great players with talent on show, including a very good outside half. Keep up the good work!
Wed Jun 25 14:42:23 2008
David Evans, Bangor
I'd like to draw your attention to a Rugby club that is developing well. Benllech Rugby Club!! gr8 facilities, exellent fields. I'm well impressed with the changes taken place over the last yr or so.
Fri May 30 09:41:54 2008
Holyhead RFC
Holyhead are looking for new players young and old at any level of experience. We now play at the valley pitch by Looms. Coming from valley pass looms on your left, pass the bus stop on your right and take a right turn up the lane. Wednesday nights at 1900 hrs. Contact us on Facebook under Holyhead rugby club for further information.
Tue Apr 1 09:35:44 2008
jeff from wrecsam
my son has spent 3 years down south playing rugby league and union, he more than held his own, once a north wales elite player he was suprised by comments of similar south players on the amount of money and support given down south. just like the assembly the north are given just scraps!
Fri Jan 5 09:38:13 2007
Bill Garth Jones, Benllech
fully agree with comments re Llangefni and Rhuthun, sure they and N.Wales rugby in general would benefit from fixtures v N. England clubs. It seems that as far as rugby is concerned as with so many other things we just don't exist up here !
Fri Dec 8 14:19:06 2006
Chris and Wez, Llandudno
The North wales teams have a hard time getting recognised by the major south wales clubs.the only way you can really make your mark is to beat one of these teams. even when we do it the clubs just use any excuse. what do we have to do to get noticed up here. i can promise that the north has just as much talent as the south (if not more).
Tue Oct 3 10:02:31 2006