Owen Young – 1st XV Captain

It’s an absolute privilege to be asked to captain Aberdare RFC once again this season. To be given the opportunity to continue in the role, especially with the new coaching team now in place, is something I’m incredibly proud of and never take for granted.

I’d like to thank the coaching staff for their faith in me and the players for their continued support. Leading this team is a real honour, and one I approach with great pride and responsibility. Every player gives everything for the badge, and that commitment and character is what makes this group so special.

We’ve built strong foundations over recent seasons, and together we’re determined to keep raising standards, developing as a squad, and building on the success we’ve achieved. We have a talented group with plenty of quality throughout the club, and I’m excited to lead the squad into the new season and see what we can accomplish together.

Jarrad Rees – 1st XV Vice Captain

I’m absolutely chuffed to be asked to continue as Vice Captain for the upcoming season alongside my good friend Owen, who once again takes on the role of Club Captain.

It’s a great honour to be trusted by the new coaching team and I’d like to thank them for placing their faith in me as part of the leadership group for the 1st XV. It’s a responsibility that I’m proud to take on, and one that I’ll give everything to.

The commitment, work ethic and togetherness within this squad are second to none. We’ve got a group of players who are willing to work hard for each other and for the club, and that creates a fantastic environment to be part of.

My role is to support Owen, the coaches and the players in any way I can, helping to drive standards both on and off the field. We have a talented squad with plenty of potential, and I’m excited to play my part in helping the team continue to grow and achieve success throughout the season ahead.

Ben Bowen – Athletic XV Captain

I am extremely proud to accept the role of Athletic captain for the upcoming season. It is not something I ever expected to happen at this stage of my career, but having had discussions with the coaches in recent weeks I am honoured to be offered the chance to lead this exciting group into the new season as we aim for more league and cup success. 

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the excellent work done by Steff Moseley and Ethan Wynne as captains of the team over the last few seasons and will be leaning heavily on them for support and leadership this year. 

The Athletic play a key role in developing players for the first team and providing others with the opportunity to represent the club with pride. I look forward to playing a part in the development of whole squad and contributing to the continued success of this great club.

Ethan Wynne – Athletic XV Vice Captain

It’s a great honour to once again be asked to be part of the Athletic XV leadership group as Vice Captain. The last couple of seasons have been hugely successful, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being part of the journey, so I’m delighted to continue in the role with this talented, young and exciting squad.

I’m really looking forward to working alongside Ben as he takes on the captaincy this season. Ben is a fantastic leader and someone who will do a great job leading the group both on and off the field.

I’d also like to acknowledge Steff Moseley, who has been an outstanding captain over the last few seasons. The standards he has set and the way he leads from the front every week have played a huge role in the success of the squad. While Ben takes over the captaincy, Steff’s experience, leadership and influence will remain a vital part of the group, and I know he will continue to play a key role alongside us throughout the season.

Our squad has a fantastic spirit, togetherness and work ethic. We challenge each other to improve every session, support one another on and off the field, and take great pride in representing Aberdare RFC. I’m excited for what lies ahead and look forward to helping drive the squad forward as we continue to develop and build on the success we’ve enjoyed in recent years.

Following discussions with the coaching team, I’m pleased to confirm our Captain Owen Young and Vice-Captain Jarrad Rees, along with Gary Williams, Daniel Lewis and Garyn Payne as the Senior Leadership Group for the season head.

Firstly, congratulations to those selected. These positions have been awarded based on the respect they have earned, the standards they set and the influence they have within the group.

Our Captain and Vice-Captain will lead the playing group on and off the field, while the Senior Leadership Group will provide support to both them and the wider squad. Their role is to support players, strengthen communication between the players and coaches, provide honest feedback and help create the environment we all want to be part of.

As Head Coach, I see huge value in having experienced people around me. These individuals bring not only rugby knowledge but also life experience, leadership and perspective as men. Having that trusted circle around the team will help us make better decisions, support one another and continue building strong connections throughout the club.

This isn’t about titles. It’s about responsibility, accountability and helping drive the standards that will move Aberdare RFC forward. I genuinely believe this group will add enormous value to both the players and coaching staff and will play a key role in building a culture that can become something really special.

Congratulations once again to those selected. Now the real work starts.

Andrew

Head Coach

I’m really pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Bowen as the Athletic team captain for the 26/27 season. Ben made a significant contribution to the team last season, both in his on-field performances and in his leadership off the pitch. His experience will help guide and support the younger players, helping the team to deliver the performances we have come to expect.

Vice-captain will again be Ethan Wynne, whose commitment and dedication to the team is second to none. He probably had his best season last year, with some outstanding performances, and is an inspiration to the group.

Finally, a massive thank you to Steff Moseley, who, unfortunately, due to work commitments, has had to step away from the captaincy role. He will continue to be a major part of the player group when available, and we all appreciate everything he did for the team over the last couple of years.

Everyone involved with the Athletic team is really looking forward to the start of next season, especially with a fresh influx of younger players joining the group from the youth ranks. It promises to be our best season yet, which is exciting for all involved. The future is bright; the future is Aberdare RFC!

Lee Bowditch

Athletic Coach