**Wales U20s Star Evan Minto Shines After Overcoming Career Doubts**
Promising Welsh rugby talent Evan Minto has been hailed as one to watch for the future after an impressive season for both club and country, despite almost stepping away from the sport altogether just a few years ago. The 19-year-old, who plays across the back-row, has caught the attention of coaches and supporters alike, with many suggesting he may have flown ‘under the radar’ during this year’s Six Nations campaign.
Minto, who currently plays for the Dragons, has experienced a remarkable turnaround in his rugby journey. After missing out on selection for the Wales U18 squad, the Newport-born forward was close to quitting the game that had consumed much of his teenage years. However, through perseverance and self-reflection, Minto has bounced back, not only making his senior debut for the Dragons but also becoming a key figure in the Wales U20s set-up.
Speaking about Minto’s season, Wales U20s head coach Richard Whiffin was quick to praise the youngster’s contribution. “Evan was brilliant and maybe went under the radar a bit,” Whiffin noted. “He had a high output on both sides of the ball and I was really impressed with his running lines.” Whiffin continued by highlighting Minto’s tactical intelligence and leadership qualities, saying, “He has a ‘follow me’ type of attitude and is very good technically, playing a lot bigger than his weight, which will naturally develop as he gets older.”
This season has proved busy for Minto, who has taken to the field not only for the Dragons but also spent time on loan at Hartpury and appeared for Pontypool in the Super Rygbi Cymru. Such diverse experiences have helped shape his game and allowed him to demonstrate his versatility across all back-row positions.
Significantly, Whiffin stressed that Minto’s adaptable skillset means he is not limited to a single position—a quality highly valued in the modern game. “He’s a good lineout forward, can jackal and carry well, so there is no need to pigeonhole him,” said Whiffin. “It’s great for a back row forward’s career to be comfortable in all three positions; Evan is highly selectable and that can be a real asset for coaches.”
Looking ahead, Minto will be keen to seize more opportunities at senior level with the Dragons during the coming season. He will also be joined by Wales U20s captain Harry Beddall at Rodney Parade, forming an exciting partnership in the back row that will surely interest both club and national selectors.
Reflecting on his journey, Minto spoke candidly about his previous struggles. In a conversation earlier in the season, he revealed: “I did my second year in college but didn’t get into Wales U18s that year. That was a poor season for me and by the end of it, I almost quit rugby all together. I was really frustrated and felt like I wasn’t enjoying playing rugby anymore. I’d had a poor pre-season that season where I ended up losing 10 kilos.”
Minto credits taking a break from the sport as a pivotal moment. “I sat down with my mum and said ‘I’m not sure I want to play rugby anymore’. The Dragons told me to take some time off and see how I felt. As soon as I stepped away, I realised how much I missed rugby. After three months off, I couldn’t wait to get back into training because I missed it so much.”
His story now stands as an encouraging reminder to many young athletes facing adversity. Rather than giving up, Minto’s willingness to confront his challenges and rediscover his passion for the game has helped propel him to new heights—both mentally and physically.
Evan Minto’s resurgence offers hope to others facing sporting setbacks, underscoring the importance of perseverance, support, and taking time when needed. As the new season dawns, all eyes will be on the young Dragon as he seeks to build on his breakthrough campaign and establish himself as a mainstay of Welsh rugby’s future.