### The Unstoppable Rise of Pontyclun’s Exceptional Teenage Rugby Teams
Pontyclun RFC’s youth teams are becoming synonymous with success, consistently achieving extraordinary results on both the local and regional stage. The Welsh club’s winning mentality and deep-rooted sense of community have catapulted their age-grade squads into the limelight, earning admiration far beyond their home village.
Last weekend saw a remarkable feat at the iconic Cardiff Arms Park, with three out of Pontyclun’s four junior sides emerging victorious in the highly competitive Cardiff Rugby Cup finals. It’s an accomplishment that underscores the club’s commitment to nurturing talent and has drawn the interest of rugby fans across Wales. The under-15s side stood out in particular, their dominance reflecting a culture of excellence that has developed over several seasons.
The U15s, a squad with a formidable reputation, are no strangers to making history. More than 90 per cent of the side are also part of the Y Pant school rugby team, which itself recently secured the Welsh Cup for a third consecutive year—an unprecedented achievement. Their ability to transfer such success seamlessly from school to club highlights the strength of their unity and their collective drive. This group has now clinched the Cardiff Rugby Cup for the fourth year running, a rare regional record.
This group of players has lost just once all season—a narrow defeat to an older Baglan U16s side, who went on to reach their own district final. Otherwise, their record is almost spotless, with only one other loss since they began competitive rugby at under-nine level. The consistency and quality of their play speak volumes about the club’s coaching, ethos, and the close camaraderie among teammates.
Pontyclun’s success certainly doesn’t stop with the U15s. The U12s, U13s, and U14s all reached their respective finals, demonstrating the depth of talent and commitment across the club. Although the U14s were narrowly beaten after a brave effort, the achievement of bringing four teams to cup finals in a single season is noteworthy and a testament to the club’s thriving junior setup.
Ben Barclay, head coach of the U15s, expressed the immense pride he and his colleagues feel. “Seeing the boys win the Cardiff Cup for a fourth year in a row is an incredibly rare and rewarding experience. Their consistent efforts, discipline, and development over the years have really paid off, and it certainly reflects on us as coaches,” Barclay stated. He also highlighted the electric atmosphere inside the Arms Park, describing it as “an absolutely superb feat” for the club and a moment when the whole village came together in support.
The club places much of its recent triumph down to the dedication of its coaches, many of whom have played for Pontyclun since childhood. This affinity with the club, according to Barclay, fosters camaraderie and helps instil club values in young players from an early age. The support extends to coaching staff with impressive credentials, including ex-professionals like Scott Morgan, Darren Walters, Lee Thomas, and current Ospreys flanker Harri Deaves, all of whom lend their knowledge and inspiration to the next generation.
Coach Tom Dean spoke about the importance of success at the older age groups, as it sets clear standards for younger players and coaches to aspire to. He specifically praised the U13s, who secured back-to-back Cardiff Cup victories and have a history of success at both school and club level.
For the U14s, the loss in their final was a bitter pill, but coach Jason Tucker pointed out the quality of opposition and the high level of rugby being played locally. Despite the disappointment, there is a palpable sense of optimism for the future, with the entire club determined to go one better next season.
The role of community cannot be underestimated in Pontyclun’s success story. As Barclay explained, “The support from the village has been fantastic. A strong community club rugby section is invaluable not only for our teams but also for parents looking to introduce their children to the game.” The celebrations back at the clubhouse following the finals were heartfelt and spirited—a fitting tribute to a club that embodies the enduring spirit of Welsh rugby.
Looking ahead, Pontyclun RFC’s youth system stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, teamwork, and a passionate community. As the players develop, the hope is that this generation will inspire many more to lace up their boots and continue the club’s legacy of excellence on and off the field.