**Welsh Rugby Finds New Hope in Teen Prodigy Carwyn Leggatt-Jones**
Amidst a challenging period for Welsh rugby, glimmers of hope often emerge from the nation’s revered player development pathways. The latest young talent drawing attention from coaches, experts and fans alike is 17-year-old Carwyn Leggatt-Jones. Touted as a future star, his performances at various youth levels have sparked excitement across Wales, suggesting that the nation’s so-called ‘outside-half factory’ remains alive and well.
Welsh rugby’s fortunes have faltered since the game turned professional, leading to an air of pessimism among supporters. Yet within the country’s development structures, the mood is far more optimistic. Many involved in the academy system believe that, in terms of both technical ability and physical attributes, the calibre of academy players has rarely been higher in recent memory.
Carwyn Leggatt-Jones is quickly becoming a household name among those following Welsh rugby closely. The Carmarthen native, currently studying at Llandovery College, distinguished himself in the WRU Schools & Colleges League final at the Principality Stadium last December. He made a particular impression with a spectacular long-range drop goal, drawing the attention of onlookers and coaches alike.
His impact wasn’t limited to college competitions. Last month, Leggatt-Jones starred for Wales U18s in the Six Nations Festival, steering his side to impressive victories against Ireland, Georgia and Italy. His kicking game was described as flawless, but it was his game management and calm under pressure that marked him out as a true prospect for the future.
Despite his tender age, Leggatt-Jones has already been invited to train with the Wales U20s squad ahead of this summer’s U20s World Cup. He is also part of the Scarlets’ senior academy, where coaches have spoken publicly about their excitement for his development. Scott Sneddon, defence coach for Wales U20s and also head of the Scarlets academy, said, “Carwyn is among the smartest young players I’ve encountered. His understanding of how to play the game is well beyond his years. At 17, his potential really is outstanding.”
Dwayne Peel, head coach at the Scarlets, is similarly enthusiastic. The plan is for Leggatt-Jones to get his first taste of senior rugby next season with Carmarthen Quins in Super Rygbi Cymru, while also training with the Scarlets’ senior group as opportunities allow. However, coaches and mentors alike urge patience, noting that the transition to senior rugby – with its faster pace and greater physicality – will be a significant step up for the youngster over the next few years.
What truly sets Leggatt-Jones apart, those familiar with his game say, is his creativity and resilience on the pitch. Nathan Thomas, director of rugby at Llandovery College and former Wales No 8, has praised the youngster’s freedom and maturity, observing, “He plays with an unburdened style, and doesn’t dwell on his errors. His decision-making and kicking repertoire are as impressive as any young player I’ve seen coming through the system.”
Leggatt-Jones himself remains grounded but ambitious. Speaking recently, he described himself as a ‘triple threat’ player, able to control the game while also having fun on the field. “I studied players like Damian McKenzie and Richie Mo’unga quite closely in school,” he explained. “I try to bring players onto me, put others in space, but also attack myself when gaps open up.”
Observers note that while Wales continue to search for solutions at senior international level, a new wave of talented outside-halves such as Math Jones, Lloyd Lucas, Harri Wilde and Harri Ford is emerging, with Leggatt-Jones at the forefront. Richard Whiffin, Wales U20s head coach, believes competition among these players will ultimately lift standards, but cautions that progress “takes time” and hard work.
The journey to full professional status is fraught with challenges, but early signs suggest Carwyn Leggatt-Jones has the temperament and skills to go far. As supporters look for reasons to be positive about Welsh rugby’s future, he offers a compelling argument that the tradition of developing world-class outside-halves very much endures.