Page 9 - GRFC_2021

Getting back on the field and giving everything for the badge.
Dai Roberts
Head Coach, Gwernyfed RFC
It’s been a much longer road than anyone thought to get back to this - competitive local rugby. After trudging up to the club after a hard fought victory against Old Penarthians on that cold, wet Febuary Saturday in 2020 no one could have predicted our next fixture would have been linedupfor Summer2021!
With multiple false starts and ever-changing restrictions, consistent training has been difficult to maintain - yet there have been silver linings. The squad has managed to keep ‘ball in hand training’ going and have been able to focus on handling skills for prolonged periods without the usual scrummaging, line-out and ruck sessions. The flip side to this was when the rules relaxed enough to allow contact to return, it certainly returned with gusto and built to a high intensity and "enthusiasm" from players who've clearly missed that aspect of the game.
Due to the change of the WRU rules meaning 18 years are no longer youth players - there have been a number of the squad who've missed their final year of youth but have relished the chance to step up to senior rugby. To aid their development we'll also be looking to play some U23/U20 games where we can match fixtures.
The enforced break has allowed several players a bit of recuperation to battle weary bodies, as well as allowing a mental refocus on the love of the game. Off field, the committee and directors have continued their hard work to allow the onfield activities to progress for which all players and supporters are massively thankful.
How the rest of the season pans out with the new structures and leagues is an unknown, but I know our players will meet any challenge as they always do, head on with 100% effort. All the squad are now chomping at the bit to pull on the Green, White and Black jersey, get on the field and give everything for the badge.
Then enjoy one biggest reasons that players lace up their boots, to head to the club with our sponsors, committee and supporters and enjoy a well-earned pint.
O‘R TOP
FROM THE TOP
for the latest news in green, white and black go to
www.gwernyfedrfc.co.uk