**Rising Welsh Rugby Prop Receives Mentorship from English Star as World Stage Beckons**
In the world of Welsh rugby, a new name is swiftly rising through the ranks, with expectations building around the promising talent of 19-year-old tighthead prop Sam Scott. As anticipation grows for his role in shaping the future of the sport in Wales, Scott is garnering attention not just for his raw power and tenacity on the pitch, but also for the unique support network guiding his development—a network which notably includes England international and British & Irish Lions front-row mainstay Ellis Genge.
Scott and Genge are both based at the Bristol Bears, where the seasoned England loosehead has taken the young Welshman under his wing. Despite their international rivalry, Genge has emerged as an unexpected mentor, offering advice and encouragement as Scott navigates the transition from youth to senior rugby. Genge famously referred to Scott as a “legend” on social media platform X earlier this year, describing him as a well-grounded youngster who has quickly won respect at Ashton Gate.
Speaking to WalesOnline, Scott expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with such an influential figure. “Being around someone like Ellis is fantastic. He’s achieved so much, and having his guidance in camp has really helped me progress,” Scott said. “He doesn’t hold back, and scrummaging against him, given I’m only 19, is a huge challenge. After every scrum, he’s there with advice on how I can improve. I definitely feel like I’ve grown as a player because of it.”
Scott’s rise comes at a time when the tighthead prop position has been something of a concern for Welsh rugby. The former Llantwit Fardre schoolboy, who tips the scales at 18st 8lb, has already caught the attention of national selectors, with previous coach Warren Gatland considering him for senior tours. His energetic approach sees him not only as a crucial presence in the scrum but also a workhorse around the park, with strong ball-carrying and defensive contributions.
The young prop was instrumental in Wales U20s’ recent Six Nations triumphs over their Irish and English counterparts, reinforcing his growing reputation. This summer, he takes centre stage once again as his team aims for glory at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy—a tournament where all eyes will be on whether this new generation can match their ambitions to their performances.
Scott is also supported by another significant figure in Welsh rugby, former Lions and Wales stalwart Adam Jones, now scrum coach for the senior team. Reflecting on this dual mentorship, Scott remarked, “It’s a great feeling knowing people like Adam are keeping track of my progress. We spoke after the Harlequins v Bristol game, and getting that recognition from someone I looked up to as a youngster is amazing. My main aim has always been to contribute both at the set-piece and in open play.”
From an early age, Scott was known for his direct running and ability to break tackles, attributes that he continues to make central to his playing style. “When I started playing, it was always ‘give the ball to Sam and watch him go.’ I pride myself on getting involved and not just being a passenger at the breakdown,” he said, highlighting his commitment to all areas of the game.
This ambitious mindset extends to his thoughts on the upcoming U20 World Cup, where Wales have been drawn into a challenging group featuring Argentina, France, and Spain. Despite the formidable opposition, Scott remains optimistic. “Internally, we’re aiming for the top four, but I feel we can go even further,” he declared. The recent Six Nations win over reigning champions England, Scott says, has given the squad invaluable belief in their potential to go all the way.
Looking beyond this summer, Scott has recently committed his immediate future to Bristol Bears by signing a new long-term contract, though his ambitions stretch far beyond club rugby. “Next season, my aim is to push as high as possible—whether in the Premiership Cup, the Premiership, or even breaking into the senior Wales squad. I have big goals, and I’m really happy at Bristol, but I know anything can happen in rugby.”
With guidance from both sides of the Severn Bridge and a steely determination to succeed, Sam Scott is fast emerging as one of Welsh rugby’s brightest prospects, and his journey on the international stage promises to be watched with keen interest by fans and selectors alike.