Power, Patience and Progress: Barnaby Waddell’s Story
Image Credit: Leighton Davies
“I’ve been involved with rugby for a long time now, so it’s become a big part of my life. It gives me discipline and routine, while also allowing me to be physical on the pitch. I don’t feel like myself if I’m not playing and keeping fit.” This is Barnaby Waddell talking about his love for rugby. The Canadian international has had an interesting path in a game for which he has a steadfast passion.
Start
From an early age, Waddell’s power and skill were clear to see. In Devon, rugby was more than a game; it was a way of life. His first steps came at Okehampton RFC, where the foundations of his journey were laid. Clubs like Okehampton are vital because they allow players to get their first taste of rugby. Waddell talks about his first club.
“Okehampton RFC will always be a special place to me, as it is where I started my rugby journey when Wayne and Bobby (my coaches) first picked me out of school to play. In a way, I may not have gotten into rugby had it not been for them and Okehampton RFC.”
After spending time in the Exeter Chiefs academy, he continued to develop but faced injury setbacks. As time passed, he found himself heading to Cyncoed Campus.
Cardiff Met
The pitches of Cyncoed Campus have become an elite proving ground for talented rugby players looking to make their mark. Throughout his time at Cardiff Met, Waddell competed in BUCS Super Rugby and played in the Welsh domestic leagues. His performances were very notable, as evidenced by his selection for England Universities, where he took on France Universities. Waddell also caught the Ospreys’ eye and trained with the region. His time at Cardiff Met helped him develop his game. Waddell talks about his time at the university.
“When I first came to Cardiff Met, I was still recovering from a big shoulder operation, and COVID had hit, so it was a slow start. But I definitely developed significantly playing in the BUCS Super Rugby team and managed to get capped for England Unis against France Unis in my last year. This was a big achievement for me at the time.”
Following graduation with a Master’s degree, Waddell took his talents to the iconic Brewery Field.
Bridgend Ravens
Waddell arrived at the Bridgend Ravens with power and purpose; his physicality and dominance at the set piece quickly made him a constant figure. A regular name on the team sheet, Waddell has played against historic teams and on iconic grounds. He started with a memorable 38–10 win over Swansea last season. The Ravens have a coaching staff with a wealth of knowledge. Waddell elaborates on his time in Bridgend and what he has learnt.
“I’ve learnt a lot of things at Bridgend and have worked with some ex-Welsh internationals. Taking control of the line-out and motivating the forwards has always been my role, and I want to keep progressing that wherever I go next.”
Those hard-earned minutes with Bridgend turned into something magical. For Waddell, it was the realisation of a dream shared by every rugby player.
International career
International rugby is the pinnacle of the sport. Every player, from the first time they pick up a ball, dreams of competing on the international stage. Waddell is eligible to represent Canada through his grandmother. After spending time around the set-up, he earned a senior call-up in 2025. The 64th minute in a match-up against Romania marked his international debut. He made an impact on debut, scoring in the closing moments of the contest. Later in the campaign, Waddell earned his first start against Georgia. The lock spoke about the emotions of representing Canada.
“It was surreal. Obviously, I was pumped up and nervous before the games, but once you’re out there on the pitch, you just can’t stop grinning and enjoying every second. Putting on the jersey for the first time will forever be the best day of my career, and I can’t wait for the next opportunity to put it on again and make my family proud.”
A competitor who has already achieved a lot, it will be fascinating to see what the future holds for him.
“My future ambitions include taking my rugby to the highest level possible, wherever that may be.”
Those words reflect a mindset built on ambition and honesty. For Waddell, rugby is about pushing limits, demanding excellence, and performing at the highest level possible.
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