North Wales Regional Girls Rugby

New Faces

2011-02-11T10:08:00.001-08:00

Those who were at training on Wednesday have now met the new assistant coach for the U18s. Next season will see major changes with the retirement of the manager and head coach of the U18s plus new management/coaching staff for the U15s. The transition should run smoothly as the new manager is attending training and the remaining 2 regional matches so he can see how things run.

Postponement

2011-01-30T09:02:00.000-08:00

Sadly today's game was cancelled due to pitch conditions down in Swansea, though unfortunately we were not told until after we'd all got up really early (5am myself) and travelled over halfway there!
On a more positive note I have met up with the new manager who will be taking over my role next season and he seems really keen so hopefully that will inspire the girls to put in more effort.

Sunday

2011-01-28T16:04:00.000-08:00

Back to serious rugby now - the u18 game v Ospreys will take place at St Helen's RFC, Swansea on Sunday.

Back to business

2011-01-19T08:07:00.000-08:00

Back to normal training tonight.
Next game: Sunday 30 January (away) v Ospreys

Game v Scarlets

2010-11-26T05:00:00.001-08:00

Sunday's game at Llangefni has been cancelled due to the weather.

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Rain, rain, go away........

2010-10-30T09:39:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow's matches v Blues at Caernarfon RFC have now been postponed due to waterlogged pitches. These will be rescheduled at a later date.

Sunday's match

2010-10-28T11:24:00.000-07:00

Meet at Caernarfon RFC 12.30 on Sunday for the match v the Blues.
Captain for this match: Kaya Harding
Vice Captain: Eloise Dorey

Training

2010-10-26T12:29:00.001-07:00

Training 6pm tomorrow at Llandudno RFC.

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Training tomorrow

2010-10-19T12:47:00.001-07:00

Nice treat tomorrow girls - indoor training. No nasty weather to contend with.

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Dates

2010-10-15T05:32:00.001-07:00

With the postponement of Sunday's fixture, dates for regionals are as follows-
Sunday 31 October at Caernarfon RFC
Sunday 28 November at Llangefni RFC
Sunday 5 December - away - venue to be confirmed.
No excuses - if you have a Sunday job, arrange your time off NOW.

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Postponed

2010-10-15T00:07:00.001-07:00

Sundays fixture v the Ospreys has been postponed due to the lack of players available. This is very disappointing after all the hard work the coaches and manager have put in. The fixture dates have been known since the start of the season so there is no excuse for players making themselves unavailable. This is annoying for those committed players who attend regular training and are ready to play.

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RGC 1404 v Dragons

2010-10-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

RGC 1404 U18’s travelled to Machen RFC in Caerphilly for their first Regional fixture of the season, against the Dragons.
It was a disappointing start to the season for the management and the girls who turned out that 5 players expected to be there had withdrawn at the last minute.
Elin Royle captained the 15 girls who took to the field. Elin, and Kumari Tilakawardane, who is unable to play at present through injury but was present as part of the coaching team, are the two most senior players of the regional squad.

The long travel and the disorganisation resulting from the absence of key players might have led to the first minute try scored by the Dragons. The ball was won at the kick off and passed quickly down the line for Dragons to score in the corner.

The RGC girls however rallied and slowly began to get into their rhythm. The scrums felt the pressure of the heavier Dragons. The absence of key players hurt the RGC forwards who in their recent outings had held their own up front. However, Becca Broadway, in her first game as a Regional player, who was thrown in at the deep end after only one training session, proved that she was more than equal to the task, holding her own despite the scrum going back. Kaya Harding showed that she is blossoming into a fine 9, managing to extricate the ball quickly and efficiently from the withdrawing scrum and passing it to safety. Gwen Harries, playing at 10, time and again took the ball past the gain line. She sidestepped time and again, leaving the melee of Dragons in front of her clutching the wind blowing across the Machen RFC grounds. Eventually Gwen found herself clear of the fire of the Dragons and roared in under the post to score the first try for RGC 1404 this season.

A quick penalty taken by Rhian Owen in the RGC 22 saw her run past the defence taking play to the opposition 22. The pressure created resulted in a penalty, which was taken by Iona Evans.

The forwards too started finding their rhythm. Cara Hope, the forward’s captain, led by example, carrying the ball well into the opposition, breaking past the gain line. She was ably assisted by Eloise Dorey, playing her first season in competitive age level rugby, who was equal to the task of taking the ball past the feisty Dragons.
However, these forays did not result in the cohesive patterns of play that the RGC girls are capable of. This was in equal measure due to the dour defence of the Dragons as much as to the lack of organisation within the RGC ranks. The RGC backs did not find any rhythms throughout the game. However, superb individual efforts from Gwen Harries, Kaya Harding and Rhian Owen kept the hopes alive. The girls did not organise themselves well in defence also. The Dragons used this to advantage sending the ball out wide to lead by 18 points to 10 at the half time.

The RGC girls restarted with better mentality and played much better in the second half. The forwards carried the ball better, creating problems for the Dragons. Again, Cara Hope and Eloise Dorey were in the thick carrying the ball forward and setting the platform for attack. They had the support of Megan Parry and Non Owen amongst the forwards but still did not dominate the phases, allowing themselves to be stopped by the Dragons. The backs failed to find any cohesion. It was left to the individual efforts of Cara, Eloise, Gwen, Kaya and Eurgain Llwyd to take the ball forward. The continued enthusiastic onslaught by the RGC girls did bring them two more tries, another for Gwen and one for Sara Williams, also playing in her first regional match and showing that she is a player who has put a marker down to senior players that she is here to stay. One of the tries was converted by Cara Hope.

The RGC girls did front up in defence better in the second half. However this was more individual effort rather than a well organised defence. Alaw Hughes and Iona Evans tackled with aggression to stop the experienced Dragons centres from making headway and passing the ball down the line. The diminutive Eurgain at full back was equal to the task of both the long ball and the foraging heavier Dragons backs and played an excellent game in defence clearing the ball to safety may times. The backs were fortified in the second half as Captain Elin Royle reverted to her normal place in the back three having served her time as flank forward, making up for the missing players. She changed as the Dragons had to lose a forward due to injury and RGC dropped a forward to match numbers. She showed that she did belong in the backs and the back three, as she was deft under the high ball, fleet of foot and agile in attack taking the ball to safety.

The defence was better organised towards the end of the game and the RGC girls withstood a final onslaught from the Dragons who were unable to breach the defence in the last passage of play. The heroism in defence was highlighted by a try saving tackle from Eloise Dorey at the corner flag, comprehensively bundling a Dragon, ball and all, way past the touchline. She was rewarded for her efforts by a punch on her face and a Dragon player sent off with a red card.

The RGC girls tried to push the advantage to score and overturn the score but the effort was too little too late.

The final score Dragons - 27 RGC1404 – 20

The squad for this match:

Becca Broadway
Eloise Dorey
Megan Parry
Catrin Roberts
Non Owen
Elin Royle (captain)
Cara Hope
Kaya Harding
Gwen Harries
Rhian Owen
Iona Evans
Alaw Hughes
Rachael Edwards
Eurgain Llwyd
Sara Williams

Head Coach: Louis Tilakawardane
Coach: Tom Rogers
Coach: Kumari Tilakawardane
Manager: Ann Tilakawardane

RGC1404 Player of the Match had many contenders. Gwen with her running play and two tries, Cara with her fabulous ball carrying, Eloise and Becca who played beyond their maturity. However the Player of the Match is Kaya Harding, who played with tremendous skill and confidence in defence and attack.

RGC1404 v Dragons

2010-10-10T09:44:00.001-07:00

RGC u18s 20 - Dragons 27
Match report later.

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Training

2010-10-06T03:13:00.001-07:00

Important to be at training tonight as it's the last chance before the first regional. Also the new kit should be there tonight! The new polo shirts and hoodies have arrived for those who ordered on time.

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New season

2010-09-22T03:34:00.001-07:00

If you want a new polo shirt and hoody with the new logo I need £25 this week.

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Times passing

2010-09-04T08:04:00.001-07:00

The first dates for Regional games are fast approaching and we need to make a decision soon whether we will have a squad or not.

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Do we continue?

2010-08-20T01:37:00.000-07:00

Again there were only 6 girls at training last Wednesday. There is only a short time left before the matches start and we will simply not be ready to compete against teams who have trained together frequently. The coaches now have to make the hard decision about whether we withdraw the RGC1404 U18 girls from the regional competition and disband the team.
We cannot go on this way. For a start why should the coaches and manager give up their free time (and spend petrol money) to get to training to find that most of the team do not turn up nor have the courtesy to inform us they will not be there. We have done our best and given it our all but now it's up to the girls.

Sunday July 25

2010-07-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

The first of the summer development days took place yesterday at Ruthin RFC. There was a fairly good turnout from both U15 & U18 girls who were put through their paces by the RGC regional girls coaches.
Following the skills session the Regional presentations took place. The awards were presented by Nicola Smith, in her last visit to North Wales as Women's Community Rugby Manager - Nicola is taking up a different position within the WRU.
The first presentation was the club award - for the 4th year running this was presented to Colwyn Bay RFC's Mermaids. The award was accepted on behalf of the club by Bethan Lloyd Jones, who is leaving the squad to take up a place at university and will be sorely missed by both the Regional and club teams.
The Regional presentations then took place.
First of all the girls who had played Regional rugby last season stepped up to accept individual medals in recognition of their committment to the Regional team.
Player of the year for the RGC1404 U15 girls was Megan Parry
Player of the year for the RGC1404 U18 girls was Iona Evans
A surprise award was then made to Nicola Smith on behalf of the girls of North Wales to thank her for her support for the region.

Presentations

2010-07-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

The regional presentations will now take place at Ruthin on 25 July - you will all receive an invitation from the WRU.

First training

2010-07-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

The first session went well - apart from the weather - rain, thunder & lightning! 7 girls turned up - could have been more but not bad for the first session.

New season

2010-06-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Training for U18s begins Wednesday 14 July 6pm at Llandudno RFC. Try and be there girls - loads to tell you.

Pictures by Phil Rees Photography

2010-03-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

RGC 1404 U18 Girls 36 – 5 Winston Churchill High School Griffins

2010-03-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

RGC 1404 U18 Girls hosted a Canadian touring side at Parc Eirias on Sunday 28th March. The game had originally been scheduled as a Colwyn Bay game, but due to the club being made unavailable at short notice, Parc Eirias was fantastic in making their facilities available.
Unusually for the team, RGC had squad of 20 players, which meant a full-sided game with substitutes was played.
The first ten minutes showcased the skills of the Canadian girls, as they had the lion’s share of possession. However, solid and well-organised defence by RGC meant that play stayed around the half-way line.
Soon after this, RGC found their feet, and began to play the expansive game they are known for. After an intelligent kick which caught the Canadian defence unawares, Centre Alaw Hughes danced her way to the line 12 minutes in, but the referee deemed the try held up, resulting in a 5m scrum. Quick ball and good running by the backs allowed prop Amelia Stubbs to brush aside 6 would-be tacklers to power over the line for the first impressive try of the game. Flanker Cara Hope kicked a difficult conversion to give RGC a 7 point lead.
This was soon built upon, however, as a clever kick ahead from centre Iona Evans allowed incisive running from fly-half Gwen Harries. The resulting ruck set up an excellent platform for Stubbs again to blast through the Canadian defenders to score her second try.
In the dying stages of the first half scrum-half Kaya Harding scored a third try for RGC, darting through two defenders to touch down. Hope added the conversion to give the home side a 19-0 half-time lead.
In the second half RGC only grew stronger as rolling substitutions throughout the game saw the team try out various different combinations in preparation to compete next season. Inter-play between the backs and forwards throughout the match proved to be a strong component in the win, and in a decisive move the forwards set up the ball for Harries to seize and spot a gap to score in. Hope added the conversion.
A real team-try was scored by RGC front-row utility player Paige Davies, as phase after phase crept closer to the Canadian try line. Strong drives from Ellie Dorey, Chloe Dymond, Kumari Tilakawardane and Catrin Williams allowed Davies to drive over from a strong position.
In what was only fitting for their effort, the Griffins scored an excellent individual try through Shareen Kritzer, who seized upon a loose kick from RGC and used her speed to run in a try.
Not to be outdone, Harding, who kept the game running smoothly with her darting runs and quick service, out-ran the opposing wing player shortly after to run in a superb try in response under the posts.
In the end RGC were convincing 36-5 winners, but this did not stop the post-match festivities, as both teams enjoyed food provided by the home team players and supporters, whilst getting to know each other and learning quite a bit about the different cultures!
Many thanks to referee David Owen.
RGC 1404 U18 Girls would like to thank the Winston Churchill Griffins for an enjoyable experience and game on Sunday, and wish them the best of luck on the rest of their tour throughout Wales.
Many thanks to the management and staff at Parc Eirias for their support of girls rugby in North Wales.
Points:
RGC U18s: Amelia Stubbs – 2 tries, Kaya Harding – 2 tries, Gwen Harries – 1 try, Paige Davies – 1 try, Cara Hope – 3 conversions
Griffins: Shareen Kritzer – 1 try

Well played!

2010-03-30T00:47:00.000-07:00

RGC U18 girls - 36 WCHS Griffins - 5
Match report will be posted later.

Team List for Sunday 28 March

2010-03-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

Team list for Sunday's match V Winston Churchill High School

1 Amelia Stubbs - Gogledd Cymru
2 Paige Davies - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
3 Eloise Dorey - Blaenau
4 Catrin Roberts - Blaenau
5 Catrin Williams - Gogledd Cymru
6 Chloe Dymond - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
7 Cara Hope - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
8 Kumari Tilakawardane - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
9 Kaya Harding - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
10 Gwen Harries - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids - Captain
11 Rhian Pritchard - Gogledd Cymru
12 Iona Evans - Gogledd Cymru/Nant
13 Alaw Hughes - Gogledd Cymru/Caernarfon
14 Nicola Williams - Llangollen
15 Elin Royle - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
16 Swyn Lewis - Gogledd Cymru
17 Ellie Jones - Oswestry
18 Nicola Jones - Blaenau
19 Cari Hicks - Blaenau

Festival

2010-01-06T13:43:00.001-08:00

Sunday's festival at Colwyn Bay RFC has been postponed due to the weather.

Girls 7s Festival

2009-12-15T04:34:00.000-08:00

Rain, rain go away

2009-11-29T10:58:00.000-08:00

Due to the recent wet weather and pitch puddles the third and final game for the Gogledd Cymru U18s (V Blues) will now have to be postponed until the New Year. Training will continue - all U18 squad members will be informed if we need to relocate for Wednesday training.
The U15s were due to play their postponed game v Ospreys today at Bro Ffestiniog but this has been postponed again, this time due to the weather, so the U15s have 2 games to play.

No news

2009-11-25T05:49:00.000-08:00

Apologies for lack of recent information - computer problems - hopefully will be sorted soon.

Scarlets v Gogledd Cymru U18s

2009-10-27T09:48:00.001-07:00

The girls travelled down to Llanelli to Parc y Scarlets on Sunday 11 October. It was a long, long journey - starting at 6am and involved many windy roads and many nauseous people! By the time we arrived to a friendly warm welcome from Helen and the Scarlets officials the girls were not in the best shape for a game of rugby, not helped from having to warm up in the training barn, which was very warm and sticky.
The game was fast paced and the Gogledd girls played well for a first outing, with several inexperienced players, but were no match for the well drilled Scarlets girls who came away with a 34-0 win. The Scarlets players and many of the spectators felt the scoreline did not reflect the game and the Gogledd coaches were justly proud of the players as they never let their heads drop and carried on fighting until the final whistle.

Captain

2009-10-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

There will be different Captains and Vice Captains for the Gogledd Cymru U18s for each regional match.
The Captain for Sunday's match V Scarlets at Parc y Scarlets is Kumari Tilakawardane, the Vice captain is Gwen Harries.

Sunday - Parc y Scarlets

2009-10-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

Coach pick up times:

Bangor One stop - 06.00
Colwyn Bay RFC - 06.30
Llanwrst Police Station - 06.50
Bro Ffestiniog RFC - 07.15

Interesting website

2009-10-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

There is a new website dedicated to women's rugby - ScrumQueens - there is a link in the box below on the right.

Glossop - Sunday 4 October

2009-09-28T13:04:00.000-07:00

The coach will be leaving Colwyn Bay RFC at 10.30 - be there no later than 10.15.

Sunday training

2009-09-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Training at Colwyn Bay RFC Sunday 27 September - 2pm.

Sunday's match

2009-09-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

Match report on U18 Mermaids blog.

Top marks

2009-09-10T05:39:00.001-07:00

Well done to all those who attended training last night - almost a full house - only 1 potential squad member who has not yet attended training with the squad. There are only 2 practice matches before the regional matches begin - this Sunday at Sandbach and 4 October at Glossop.

Welcome

2009-09-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

We have heard today that girl's rugby is taking a short break at Bangor RFC but they hope to be re-starting soon. If any of the Bangor girls want to carry on training they are welcome to join us at Llandudno RFC on Wednesday evenings from 6 - 8pm or Colwyn Bay RFC on Thursdays 6.45 - 8.30pm. For further details contact: ann@colwynbayrugby.co.uk

Regional awards

2009-08-17T08:46:00.001-07:00

After the development day the annual regional awards were given out - the main ceremony had taken place some weeks previously in South Wales but due to exam pressures most of the Gogledd girls had been unable to attend so Nicola Smith, Women's Community Rugby Manager travelled down to Denbigh to present the awards.
Trophies were awarded to Colwyn Bay U18 & U15 Mermaids for being 'Club of the Year' and Ellen Jones was presented with her trophy as Gogledd Cymru U18 Player of the Year and Eurgain Llwyd received her trophy as U15 Player of the Year. The regional players who were present were then presented with a medal to commemorate their involvement with the regional side.
A surprise (at least to the recipient!) award was then announced - Ann Tilakawardane, Gogledd Cymru U18 girls manager, was presented with an award for 'Contribution to Women's Rugby 2008 - 2009'.

Some members of Gogledd Cymru U18s 2008-09 with their medals.

Some members of Gogledd Cymru U15s 2008-09 with their medals

Denbigh 16 August 2009

2009-08-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

The last of the summer development days took place at Denbigh Rugby Club on an almost sunny day. There was a mixed age range of girls - both U15 and U18 plus a couple of older players who came along for the awards ceremony and joined in the training, among them Wales U20 player Yasmin Leung, who was happy to share her expertise with the younger girls. The girls were coached in skills for the first half of the session but asked to play a game so a modified game was played, in view of the fact that the ages were mixed (though some of the younger players were more than able to challenge the older girls!)

The Gogledd Cymru coaches were able to add a few more players to the list of potential regional players after seeing the skills on offer.

Bro Ffestiniog RFC

2009-08-05T08:08:00.001-07:00

The second development day was held on Sunday 2 August in Bro Ffestionog RFC.

A large contingent of local girls were waiting - what some of them lacked in experience they made up for in enthusiasm! Several players from other clubs also made the journey to Bro.

With 4 experienced coaches available the girls were split into groups and while some were coached in game play, some concentrated on tackling and defence, with the groups rotating through the coaching stations so that all tried all areas.

Such enthusiasm was shown that most of the girls are planning to come to the regional training sessions held on Wednesdays at Llandudno RFC - these sessions are open to all who want to improve their rugby skills.

Mill Bank, Holyhead

2009-07-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

The first of the planned development days took place in cool, blustery conditions at Mill Bank, Holyhead on Sunday. The girls were introduced to the new assistant coach for the Gogledd Cymru U18 girls - Tom Rogers. The afternoon started with core skills before the coaches decided to challenge the girls to a game. This started as a casual, friendly skirmish before competitive instincts took over and all began to play to win - a very entertaining sight!

Development days

2009-07-22T10:46:00.000-07:00

The first of the planned development days is this Sunday at Mill Bank, Holyhead 12.30 - 4.30. Remember to bring a snack and a drink. Don't forget your gumshields as Louis is planning to do some contact training with the more experienced players.

No time to rest!

2009-06-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

I know the season has only just ended but we must press on ahead and start planning for next season as the first regional game is planned for October 11 (and it will be away) so training will begin as soon as possible. The 3 development days will be used for both training and looking for new recruits. There will be a number of vacancies in the U15s as several players will be moving up to U18 rugby in September. The age grading means that any girl who is between the ages of 12 and 15 on 1 September can play U15 rugby and girls between 15 and 18 (on 1 September) can play U18 rugby.

Gogledd Cymru U15 Player of the Year

2009-06-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

Eurgain Llwyd

Several players put their hands up this season for player of the year, showing commitment and dedication, however Eurgain Llwyd stood out above the rest. She constantly, whatever the weather, attended all the training session and never gave less than 100% effort. When challenged with a more technical skill Eurgain persisted with a smile on her face even when she found things difficult. The same attitude carried into the games and no matter how hard the opposition were, she got stuck in and played to the best of her ability. She has shown a very mature attitude this season and with continued coaching will develop into a very good player and I wish her well for the future.
Pete McLaughlin
Head Coach 2008 - 2009
Gogledd Cymru U15s

Gogledd Cymru U18 Player of the Year

2009-06-02T13:11:00.001-07:00

Ellen Jones

Ellen (known by most of us as Mwsh) is from Corwen and initially travelled to Nant Conwy to play her rugby. She was an outstanding player for Nant girls over the years and was for a few years one of the major thorns in the side of Colwyn Bay. With the demise of the Nant Conwy team last year Mwsh joined Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids. She added to the strengths of the squad and integrated well and easily with the girls, becoming quite a popular girl in the squad. She has been a regional player for a number of years and has a range of rugby skills that would complement any team. She played in the front row for both clubs and the regional squads but is also agile, fleet of foot and is able to kick the ball effortlessly. She has become the chief place kicker for Gogledd Cymru and the Mermaids.

She is a strong and committed player never shying away from a tackle or a rugby match. Her rugby skills and her ability to be a great team player willing to allow the interest of the team to be her paramount interest has made her the obvious nominee from the North Wales region.

Recently she has been invited to trial for Wales U20s and she will be a valuable player to the squad if she is selected and all of the North Wales rugby community wishes her well.

New beginnings

2009-05-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

The development days planned for the summer are starting to take shape. They are being held at different locations in the North Wales area to enable more girls to take part in the training. It is hoped that one or more of the dates/locations will suit all the rugby playing (and new recruits to rugby) girls in the Gogledd Cymru area.

Development Day

2009-05-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

A schools development day was held at Colwyn Bay rugby club today. Approximately 100 girls from several North Wales schools turned out for a day of rugby training and skills delivered by WRU coaches. The day started with the girls being given a specially designed Gogledd Cymru t-shirt. Then it was down to business.
There were 6 skill stations to complete before lunch. These consisted of an SAQ (Speed, Agility, Quickness) assault course, a modified game of 2 handed touch, passing the ball, footwork, modified game playing and decision making.
After a short lunch break the girls were divided according to ability, with some receiving coaching in areas such as tackling and introduction to contact and a training game for the more experienced players.
All the girls seemed to enjoy the day and the Gogledd Cymru coaches spotted a few potential new recruits to the regional squad so it was a well spent day for all.
It is hoped to hold several more development days in different clubs over the coming months to continue the renewed interest in girls rugby evident today.

New Season

2009-05-19T15:18:00.000-07:00

New regional appointments:

Gogledd Cymru U15 Girls:
Head Coach - Nia Ritchie
Ass Coach - to be appointed
Manager - to be appointed

Gogledd Cymru U18 Girls:
Head Coach - Louis Tilakawardane
Ass Coach - to be appointed
Manager - Ann Tilakawardane

under new management

2009-05-05T09:34:00.001-07:00

The WRU have asked all regional coaches and managers to reapply for the posts they currently hold to ensure the best people are in place. Watch this space for further news.

Today

2009-04-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

The skills session run by Jason Lewis was fairly well attended today - I hope all who attended feel that they learned something. Hopefully the WRU will hold a few skills sessions during the summer in North Wales.
Well done to those U18s who acted as ball girls for the international - you did a great job (and looked very fetching in the lurid fluorescent vests).

Wales V England

2009-04-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Those of you who have been selected to be ball girls for the international on Tuesday - I will phone you with final details but remember the skills session with Jason Lewis will run from 10 - 12 before the match.

Match

2009-04-02T14:23:00.001-07:00

For those Gogledd Cymru players who want to play at Colwyn Bay RFC on Sunday, meet at the club at 12.15. Bring your black polo shirts to wear after the match.

Training today

2009-03-29T07:48:00.000-07:00

Good training session today at Bangor RFC - many thanks to Alwyn Bevan for the use of the facilities. Nice to see some new faces there. Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids have a game next Sunday (5 April) - any Gogledd Cymru U18s are welcome to come along and we will make sure everyone gets some time on the pitch. Details: KO 2pm - meet in changing room at 12.30 at Colwyn Bay RFC.
Email me if you need any more details.

Training

2009-03-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

We are holding a training session for the U18 Gogledd Cymru girls at Bangor RFC on Sunday 29 March at 12.

Esher V Colwyn Bay Mermaids/Gogledd Cymru U18s

2009-03-18T10:25:00.000-07:00

Match now confirmed for Sunday April 5 at 2pm at Colwyn Bay RFC. We would like to play all the Gogledd Cymru U18s who are available.

Match

2009-03-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

I have been asked to arrange a match to play Esher U18s, possibly at CBRFC, on Sunday 5 April. The Esher coach would like us to field the regional team so all regional U18s please let me know asap if you can play.

Girls rugby in North Wales

2009-01-26T14:20:00.000-08:00

I have just returned from a meeting of the Development Sub-Committee of the North Wales Rugby Union Council where I represent girls and women's rugby in North Wales and the committee are very enthusiastic about helping us to develop girls rugby. There will be a special meeting on Tuesday 17 February at 7.30pm to discuss girls and women's rugby. Anyone interested in the subject is welcome - if you want to come along or just pass on any ideas, please contact me.

Next match

2009-01-20T15:20:00.000-08:00

I urgently need to know who is or isn't available for a possible match on Saturday 7 February. Please let me know asap.

Gogledd Cymru V Blues

2009-01-18T13:03:00.001-08:00

Gogledd Cymru U18 at Bangor RFC 30.11.08

Gogledd Cymru V Cardiff Blues U18s

2009-01-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

Score: Gogledd 0 Blues 22

Sorry for delay in posting score but I have been dealing with family bereavements. Match report will follow in near future.

Next match

2008-11-23T06:49:00.000-08:00

U18s - You are playing the Blues next Sunday (30 November). Make sure you get to training either on Wednesday (Bangor RFC) or Thursday (Colwyn Bay RFC). Confirm with Anna if you are playing asap.

U18 Hoodies

2008-11-14T10:09:00.001-08:00

U18s - your hoodies have arrived and they are very nice. Make sure you have paid or you will not get your hoody.

New hoodies

2008-10-30T09:37:00.001-07:00

U18s - your hoodies will be ready next week so make sure you hand over the money asap as you will not get your hoody until you have paid.
U15s - get your order in to June asap so she can order your hoodies.

Games postponed

2008-10-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

The next two planned fixtures have been postponed until the New Year due to squad injuries. The match on 30 November against the Blues will go ahead as planned at Bangor RFC. This means that there will be more time to plan and prepare for our away matches.

Gogledd Cymru U15 V U15 Scarlets

2008-10-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

Gogledd Cymru U15s- 5 Scarlets U15s -52
Gogledd Cymru girls u15’s welcomed the Scarlets to Colwyn Bay Rugby Club for their first game of the season. The girls have only been together for five weeks but put on a great show against a strong Scarlets side.
Alaw Hughes did a superb kick towards the Scarlets try line allowing for Kaya Harding to score a try. Despite the score line the girls gave an outstanding performance with Gwen Harries gaining the Maid of the Match. There were excellent performances from Captain Amelia Stubbs, who led well from the front, matching the Scarlets scrums with the help of her fellow forwards. Hayley Ellis showed off her talent in the line outs, stealing some of the ball from the opposition as well as outstanding performances from Corinna Owen, Elinor Isaac and Cara Hope.
The coaches were proud of all the girls and were impressed with how they handled themselves against a side that were well drilled and undefeated from the previous season. The coaches went on to say that they believe that the Gogledd Cymru girls have the makings of a great team who will be more than ready to challenge the four regions. The next game is away to the Ospreys on the 2nd November.

Gogledd Cymru U18 - 0 U18 Scarlets - 34

2008-10-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

Gogledd Cymru U18’s had their first match against the Scarlets at Colwyn Bay on Sunday 19th October 2008.

The date is a landmark for the region and the team.

For the region, this was the first time that the household South Wales regional teams have come up this far north. There was much expected from them. They did not disappoint.

For the Gogledd team this was their first outing for the season. 4 weeks ago there was no squad. Over the last three weeks girls from 3 clubs – Bangor, Pwllheli and Colwyn Bay - have stepped forward to take up the challenge and carry forward the flag and the fortunes of the new region of Gogledd Cymru. They have had just two training sessions and many organisational issues to contend with. They have dealt with this very well. They have come together as a squad and are ready to face up to the more organised, experienced regions of the south.

The Scarlets were the better organised team. They had the apparel and the appearance of an organised, well structured outfit. Their rugby reflected the appearance. They played well and to an effective game plan. There is much that we can learn from this first encounter.

The first quarter and the first half saw a hard fought game. In this period of play the Gogledd girls dealt with the power and the skills of the Scarlets well. They tackled well in defence preventing the larger, more powerful Scarlets from dominating them. It was well into the first half that the Scarlets relentless pressure finally broke through the Gogledd defence. This was followed by another long period of hard physical rugby before the Scarlets were able to score again. With gale force winds in their faces, it was a creditable performance by Gogledd to keep the Scarlets to just two tries at half time.

The second half saw the Scarlets dominate the game and begin to pull away. Gogledd were unable to use the conditions to their advantage. The pressure of a limited squad size became visible when injuries carried away the players from the field at crucial periods. The loss of two second rows Jade Mills and Kumari Tilakawardane in quick succession and the absence of sufficient forward substitutes on the bench caused the scrums to creak. Despite this, fast efficient hooking by Sarah Johnston for Gogledd gave them enough possession from the scrums. However, they were unable to make use of this, partly due to the good defence of the Scarlets but mostly due to handling errors. They lost scrum half Charlotte Pirie to an eye injury and for most part of the second half there were just 14 Gogledd girls on the field. This caused them to leak three tries despite the valiant effort by the remaining girls.

However, they ended on a high, attacking the Scarlets try line in the final five minutes. This came from a break by Jane Owen playing at 13 on one of the rare occasions that the ball moved down the line. Gogledd played their best attacking rugby in this period, putting together three to four phases of play. However, the Scarlets put up a determined defence to stop Ellen Jones and Joely Benton trying to barge over. Eventually it was time that prevented Gogledd from scoring despite being parked on the try line with repeated attacks on the right hand corner.

The final score was Gogledd Cymru - 0 Scarlets 34

Gogledd come away from this fixture with a mixed bag of fortunes. The positives are the valour of the girls who put up a creditable performance on their first outing. The team has had its first taste of regional rugby. They have come together quite creditably in the little time they have been given. They have weathered the initial pressure that was heaped on them by the delay in getting management structures, training and pitches organised. In parts they showed what the team could do. Their defence was determined with few missed tackles; they were effective clearing out at the rucks and contested the ball well at the breakdown; the few times that the backs got hold of the ball they did venture into the opposition half. However, they lacked the skills to finish the moves off and the experience to make use of conditions and play for position. With time the girls should be able to do better.

The problems they have to contend with are that most of the other matches this year will be played away, in the south. This will cause further pressures on the limited resources they have been given, squad size and the inevitable geographical spread of the region. After this one match, they already have three forwards out of a possible10 nursing long term injuries which will possibly prevent them playing the full match on the 2 November away at Swansea. Injuries to others will also erode the time they will be able to train together as a squad.

How could they be helped?

The clubs in the region could help by scouting and encouraging the players that are in their area to come forward for training. The management are aware of the difficulties for them to travel to training locations and have in place flexible and innovative ideas in overcoming this obstacle. The squad size is small. This has to be improved. There are more girls who could play than are being put forward by the clubs to play for the region. They could be encouraged to enjoy playing the game and the social life around it.

They need to be given the experience of playing 15 a side rugby more often. There should be positive moves towards playing 15 a side rugby at club level. Too often club loyalties have prevented girls from joining forces to play 15 a side rugby at club level. This causes the experience gap that is being seen at regional level.

The away matches to come are going to arduous and a test for the team. As a region, support, both in spectator numbers and with finances, is essential. Ideally, it would be nice to have time for rest from travel and training before the matches. For a squad that has limited time together this may be the crucial factor helping them to perform better.

Above all the girls need your support. The travelling support for the Scarlets far outnumbered the local support at Colwyn Bay. The girls are doing their best and will do better knowing and seeing the support of North Wales around them.

At then end, the momentous day was decided by differences between organisation and experience of the two teams. The Scarlets got the result. We hope Gogledd benefited by the experience.

For Gogledd Emma Beaumont shone with a display belying her late calling to the No 7 Jersey. The Scarlets too recognised her efforts nominating her as the Player of the Match for Gogledd. Ffion Evans stood out among several players for the Scarlets and was nominated by the Gogledd girls as their Player of the Match. The drinking contest at the end of the day between these two ended with another Scarlet win!

The day ended in great spirits and the enjoyment of all present within the warmth of Colwyn Bay club house. All went away agreeing to continue the enjoyment at a future date.

Sunday

2008-10-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

The WRU want the U18 match to be filmed as they are looking for potential new Wales U20 players. We have been promised the camera will be delivered tomorrow and June has found a volunteer to do the filming.
Wyn Isaac - some of you may remember him - he was one of the U17 North Wales coaches last year - is coming to watch and he is bringing a couple of U18 girls who are keen to play so maybe we can stop worrying about numbers.
The U15s won't be officially filmed but I am sure a few keen parents might have their cameras out - if anyone does film the U15 match, I am sure Pete would be interested in having a copy of the film for match analysis and training purposes.

Update

2008-10-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

We have ordered polo shirts for all the squad with the Gogledd Cymru crest on - they will probably not arrive before Sunday's game so please bring along black trousers and a black t-shirt or polo to wear after the match.
The socks still haven't arrived - in case they don't appear please bring your club socks to wear.
Kick off was originally planned for 2pm but may have to be put back to 2.30 or 3, depending on when the Scarlets roll into town.
Meet at Colwyn Bay RFC at 12ish for team talk and warm up. Early night Saturday girls.

Training

2008-10-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

U15s are training at Bangor RFC on Wednesday (tomorrow) at 7pm.
U18s training on Thursday at CBRFC at 6.45 this week - will be at Bangor next Wednesday (22 October).

Sunday's match

2008-10-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

I have today been told the the game on Sunday will now be played at Colwyn Bay Rugby Club. Final training on Thursday at 6.45pm at CBRFC.

Today's match

2008-10-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

Most of the Gogledd Cymru U18 squad got together today for a warm up match ahead of the first regional game next week. Today's opponents were Waterloo, who gave the girls a run for their money. The final score was Mermaids 54 - Waterloo 7.

Latest news

2008-10-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

Possible change of venue for the first match - the Scarlets don't want to travel to ColwynBay so we may have to travel to our 'home' match to meet them halfway. More news as soon as we hear.
Final training on Wednesday at Bangor RFC at 7pm.

Training

2008-10-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Following next Sunday's practice match at Colwyn Bay the final training before facing the Scarlets on the 19th will be at Bangor RFC next Wednesday (15th) from 7pm to 8.30pm.
Many thanks to Alwyn at Bangor for allowing us to use the club.

New kit

2008-10-09T13:34:00.001-07:00

The new kit has arrived - well at least the shirts and shorts - still waiting for the socks and training tops. At least you'll have something to play in on 19th when you meet the Scarlets.

Update

2008-10-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

The first matches are fast approaching - against the Scarlets on October 19. The match venue will probably be Colwyn Bay RFC. We will be taking the squad photographs on the day so all squad members need to be there.
We may be organising some extra training sessions before the match - all chosen girls will be notified.
The U18 squad members are invited to join Colwyn Bay Mermaids in their match against Waterloo next Sunday - this will give Louis & Ben a chance to see the Gogledd Cymru U18 squad play together for the first time and will serve as a useful training session.
Please contact us if you have any problems.

Gogledd Cymru girls

2008-09-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

The Gogledd Cymru girls teams at U15 & U18 will hopefully be selected on Sunday at Eirias Arena. Even if you have not managed to get along to training yet, if you want to try out for the squad, come along to the arena on Sunday between 10.30 - 3pm and speak to one of the coaches.

Training update

2008-09-20T11:02:00.001-07:00

No training next Friday as we'll all be saving our energy for Sunday 28th at Eirias Arena for the rugby fun day. Training for the Gogledd Cymru U18s will take place on Thursdays at 6.45 alongside Mermaid training until further notice. U15s will be told by Pete on 28th where and when they will be training. It is hoped that the Gogledd Cymru U15 & U18 squads will be selected on 28th at Eirias Arena ready for the first match of the season, which is planned for 19 October v Scarlets.

U14 Player of the Year North Wales 2007 - 2008

2008-09-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Amelia Stubbs (Colwyn Bay RFC)- seen here receiving the Player of the Year award for North Wales U14s 2007 - 2008 from Rowland Phillips.

Regional awards

2008-09-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

Just back from the National 10s in Llandovery.
Congratulations to all the girls from last season's North Wales squads.
Special congratulations to Amelia Stubbs (Colwyn Bay) for being named Regional Player of the Year for North Wales U14s 2007 - 2008 and Sian Williams (Caernarfon) for being named as Regional Player of the Year - North Wales U17s 2007 - 2008.

Message from coaches for U18s

2008-09-13T03:53:00.000-07:00

I am speaking for the coaches, Ben & myself.
I understand that some girls have problems with either date - i.e. Friday - or the venue being too far. The dates and venues can be up for discussion and Ben and I are happy to accomodate. The practices are currently scheduled weekly but once we have the squad formalised to a managable number and skill levels established, the practices for the North Wales team are likely to be fortnightly or monthly. However, this would mean that the girls are expected to have regular matches, club or school, and training. Ben and I are quite happy to come to the clubs or go on recommendations of club coaches about fitness to play.
If there are better ideas to develop the U18 squad, contact any of the team, Ann, Ben or myself anytime. However, it is imperative that this is done ASAP certainly before the end of September.
Louis

First training

2008-09-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

First training tonight. Disappointing turn out, especially the U18s. I know a lot of girls have part time jobs now so it can be difficult getting everyone together in the same place at the same time. Nice to see some familiar faces from last year's squad. Hopefully even more will come next week.

Gogledd Cymru training

2008-09-06T13:14:00.000-07:00

Training starts on Friday 12 september at 6.30pm at Colwyn Bay RFC. If anyone needs directions or more info please contact Ann or June - contact details below.
We are looking for new squad members so if you think you are capable of playing at regional level, come along and speak to the coaches.

Free rugby fun day

2008-09-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

There will be a free rugby fun day at Eirias Arena on Sunday 28 September. It's free to join in and lunch will be provided. Come along and register in the Norwest Holtz suite at Eirias Leisure Centre, Colwyn Bay on 28 september at 10 - 10.30am. The day is open to all players, whether experienced or brand new to the game and the Gogledd Cymru coaches will be looking for potential new members to join the regional squad. They will also be sending any likely girls for trials for Wales U20s. For more details or if you want to pre-register contact ann@colwynbayrugby.co.uk (U18s) or june.gogleddu15@hotmail.com (U15s).

Latest news

2008-08-31T15:32:00.000-07:00

It is hoped that training will start on Friday 12 September at 6.30pm at Colwyn Bay RFC. Many thanks to Bryan Roberts, Chairman at CBRFC for his generosity in allowing us to use the club facilities. All interested players are welcome to come along and train. A development day to attract more girls will hopefully be held later in the month - details will be given as soon as they are finalised - watch this space.

Contacts

2008-08-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

For all enquires -
U18 players: ann@colwynbayrugby.co.uk
U15 players: june.gogleddu15@hotmail.com

Update

2008-08-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

Meeting tonight of all the Gogledd Cymru training and management squad with Austin Thomas, Regional Rugby Manager, to sort out details for the forthcoming season. We are all determined that this season will be much more organised and the coaches are hoping that they can fire up the squad with enthusiasm. Issy Jones, Wales U20 player, who is just back from Wales' tour of Canada, has joined the training squad to assist the coaches and offer help and advice to the girls. New kit has been ordered for the whole squad and it is hoped that some home games can be played much more locally than previously (though I am sure that you will all miss travelling to Llanidloes!).The first big event on the calendar is planned for September 28. Venue and exact details are still to be finalised but we are hoping to hold a rugby experience day so that all interested girls in the region can get together and new girls can try out the game alongside more experienced players - more details will follow.

2008 - 2009 season

2008-08-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

Coaches and managers have now been confirmed by the WRU for the forthcoming season for the Gogledd Cymru U15 and U18 girls squads.

U15 - Manager: June Morris
Head coach: Pete McLaughlin
Assistant coaches: George Morris and Cameron McMullen

U18 - Manager: Ann Tilakawardane
Head Coach: Louis Tilakawardane
Coach: Ben Coxon
Details of training and squad selection will follow as soon as details have been sorted.

North Wales girls rugby 2008 - 2009

2008-08-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

The start of a new season with new regional teams - Gogledd Cymru (us), Scarlets, Ospreys, Blues and Dragons - more teams, more games. Let's hope this will be the most successful season yet.

North Wales U14s 2006-2007