Trusting the Work: Catching Up with Bridgend College Rugby
Bridgend College Rugby’s promotion story, told through Craig Warlow and Simon Norris, highlighting patience, process and the people behind the success.
Image Credit: Phil Roeder
“Finally learned the hard way that all good things take time, my friend.” In Highway Boy, Zach Bryan gives voice to patience, persistence, and quiet belief. That line is true because it speaks a simple truth: hope rewards those who keep showing up and doing the work. You must walk forward, even when no one is clapping. Throughout this conversation with Craig Warlow and Simon Norris, you will get insight into Bridgend College rugby’s pathway. It is a set-up that is all about finding the magic in detail, as they discuss the side’s promotion into the Colleges A League.
A rewarding year
Over the decades, many sensational people have called Bridgend home. Often, they shape their craft at iconic clubs. Furthermore, schools like Brynteg and Cynffig Comprehensive School have been graced by an abundance of talented individuals. 2005 marked the beginning of a cradle for the county’s rugby talent. Founded by Gareth Nicholas and Paul Adams, the Bridgend College would go on to help nurture young players on their journey. Players such as Harri Deaves, Owen Watkin, and Scott Baldwin all once called the establishment home. There have been many good years along the way, but this one feels different. As Warlow reflects, the reward comes not just from results but from the journey it took to get here.
“For me, it’s been particularly rewarding. I’ve been here a long time now, and we’ve seen the ups and we’ve seen the downs. When you’ve experienced the downs, you really appreciate the ups.”
They went on to talk about the side’s team spirit. Norris elaborated on how the team came together.
“The boys have really driven it themselves. Behind the scenes, they have become a really tight group, and that says a lot. When you get on together, you can make good things happen, and they did.”
When you have a team that gives everything for each other, strong performances are bound to come. Bridgend College’s season has proven that to be true.
Strong performances
To have a successful campaign, in any sport, consistency is vital. Maintaining a level of performance throughout a season can be defining. Bridgend College did just that. Norris discusses this season’s performance and highlights a game in Brecon.
“I actually think we played better before the final than in the final itself, in terms of cohesion. Finals are about big moments and handling pressure.
“One of the first times I realised we had a good group was away at Brecon. We were 26–5 down at half-time, but we came back and scored four unanswered tries in the second half.
“We gave them clear, simple instructions at half-time, and they listened and implemented them. That told us a lot. They did not panic. They executed.”
As stated before, it’s not just one performance that wins trophies; it’s doing it week in, week out.
Preparing for League A
After victory over Gower College secured promotion into League A, attention will turn to making an impact in a new league. Bridgend College will be taking on historic teams such as Llandovery College and Cardiff and Vale College. Warlow talks about preparing for the new league but says it’s business as usual and about a wider mission.
“Nothing much is going to change. We talk a lot about the one per cent gains. If you do those little things consistently, just a little better, you give yourself a chance to fulfil your potential.
“Our job is to help players become the best version of themselves. The working week will not change much, and neither will the way we go about our business.
“We are hoping the calibre of player coming through the doors continues to improve, but fundamentally we are about providing opportunities for local players at a local college, supporting their rugby dreams and the wider rugby community.”
It’s not just about results on the pitch, but growing off it.
The people
Across the nation, you will find many colleges helping nurture the next generation of the game, full of people ready to impart knowledge. Warlow and Norris talk about the people at Bridgend College.
“What makes the difference is the people.
“Players know what is good and what is bad. They know they need to get up early, eat well, pay attention in meetings, and concentrate during matches.
“What we try to do is remove barriers and support people through good times and bad. If, after 30 games in an elite environment, they have learned important life and rugby lessons, then we have done our job.”
Bridgend College will look to do big things. It will be fascinating to see what the future holds for them.
In conversation with Craig and Simon, the heart of the programme is clear. It’s the people, their values, and their shared purpose that define it.
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Power, Patience and Progress: Barnaby Waddell’s Story
Explore Barnaby Waddell’s rise from club rugby in Devon to representing Canada on the international stage, driven by power, patience and progress.
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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Ben Burnell: Playing, Learning, and Loving the Game
Fly-half Ben Burnell discusses what rugby means to him, his development through Welsh rugby, and enjoying every moment of the game.
Image credit: Leighton Davies
“Rugby means a lot to me. I think I’d be pretty bored if I didn’t play or coach rugby at the moment! I’ve played it and been involved in it for as long as I can remember, so it would be pretty weird if I were to stop playing! Dad would take me to all his games when I was younger, so I didn’t have a choice, really!”
This is Ben Burnell on what rugby means to him. In a short time, the fly-half has built a wealth of experience. Burnell has a fitting story; let’s explore.
Llantwit Fardre
A rugby player’s journey doesn’t begin in grand stadiums, but on cold Sunday mornings at local rugby clubs around the nation. Growing up around Pontypridd and Llantwit Fardre, rugby was never far away. Introduced to the game through his father, Justin, a respected figure in Welsh rugby circles, the foundations were laid early. It’s at establishments like Llantwit Fardre where a young player learns the game and forges relationships that will last a lifetime. Burnell elaborates on his first club.
“Llantwit Fardre is a great club. I started playing there when I was around six years old, I think, all the way up to youth rugby, and I got my mini & juniors cap at 16 for playing in every age group. I remember not wanting to play tag rugby because all I wanted to do was tackle, which is quite ironic because I’m the complete opposite now! But no, I’ve made some of my best friends through the club, and it was where I was first introduced to rugby.”
Burnell’s talent was evident from a young age, leading him to run out for some iconic clubs.
Cardiff
Burnell joined the Cardiff Rugby Academy, training in a professional environment. He would only run out for the region in a pre-season match-up against Bristol. The fly-half’s potential was clear to see. His talent was rewarded with call-ups for Wales U18s and U20s. Being in that set-up was bound to help Burnell’s development. He credits his time in the Welsh capital with improving his game at a young age.
“Cardiff Rugby played a huge part in my development. I was signed straight after U16s, so to be in a full-time environment from the age of 16 was massively beneficial to me. I was lucky enough to earn my Wales U18s & U20s caps with the region, and I don’t think that would’ve happened if I hadn’t been in that full-time programme. I always wanted to play for Cardiff when I was growing up and was fortunate to play one game for the first team against Bristol, so I’m happy I managed to get that. Unfortunately, I was injured a fair bit over my four years there and probably didn’t kick on as much as I would’ve liked, but I still managed to learn and develop a lot as a player during my time there.”
Earlier on in his rugby journey, another famous club was vital in his development.
Pontypridd
Throughout his time at the academy, he got his first taste of regular senior rugby at Sardis Road. At 18, Burnell made his Pontypridd debut. Coached by his father, he made quite an impression at the iconic club. Burnell’s time in a Pontypridd jersey was defined by big moments. From a famous comeback against Merthyr to delivering 14 points in a tense quarter-final clash with Aberavon, he repeatedly rose to the occasion. It must be special to run out for the club, but it meant so much to Burnell.
“Whilst attached to the academy, all my rugby came from playing for Pontypridd in the Premiership, which was again massive for my development. I made my debut when I was 18 in the season straight after COVID, and I loved every minute there! My dad has been coaching Pontypridd since I was 14, so I’d grown up watching and training with players, and then to pull on the same jersey as the same boys whom I’d been training with since I was young was pretty cool!”
After time in Cardiff and Pontypridd, it was time for a fresh chapter, which led to a move to Jersey.
Jersey
Heading to the Championship, he was 20 years old and signed with the Jersey Reds, a competition that flies under the radar but is fierce. There was consistent competition for places, which is sure to sharpen one’s game. The Welshman made appearances against Caldy and Richmond and was part of the squad that won the 2022/23 title. That period shaped more than just his rugby. His time in the Championship helped mould him as both a player and a person. He reflects on his time in Jersey.
“Jersey was another great club to play for. I moved there when I was 20, and it was my first time living away from home, so it was a really good life experience and taught me how to cook after almost burning the house down a couple of times. I ended up signing a three-year contract there, but unfortunately, the club went bust in 2023. It was still a great experience and was also awesome to win the championship in my first season there!”
After leaving Jersey, Burnell headed home and eventually found himself at the Brewery Field.
Bridgend Ravens
Once returning from Jersey, Burnell regained match fitness with Pontypridd. In June 2024, he signed for the Bridgend Ravens ahead of the launch of the Super Rugby Cymru league. He quickly became a consistent figure in the team. From setting up a Ryan Wilkins try with a beautiful grubber to playing a role in big play-offs, Burnell has also enjoyed some fruitful moments at the Brewery Field. He talks about joining the club.
“I’m really enjoying my time at Bridgend! I joined last season for the SRC’s first season and came with about six others from Pontypridd, which made things easier. The coaches give us a licence to go out and express ourselves and play expansive rugby, which definitely suits me. We’ve had a bit of a slow start to the season in terms of results, but we’ve been playing some great rugby in patches. We need to stay consistent in games and not switch off at key moments. We’ve got a great playing squad and coaching staff, so I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before results start to come our way.”
Already having some great experiences, including a summer in Australia, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for Burnell.
“I haven’t really got a plan for the future in terms of rugby, just enjoy myself at Bridgend and see what happens. I would definitely consider the opportunity to play professionally again, but I also enjoy the freedom of playing semi-professionally. For example, I had the chance over the summer to play for the Manly Marlins in the Shute Shield in Sydney, which I absolutely loved and would 100% do again. It was an excellent standard of rugby and also a great standard of living, so that was a cool experience. So future ambitions are really to have a good time and see what happens!”
Those words say everything about Burnell’s relationship with the game. Rugby, for him, is about joy, presence, and squeezing every last moment from his time on the pitch.
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More Than a Game: Lloyd Wilkins and a Life in Rugby
Lloyd Wilkins reflects on his rugby journey from Pontyclun to Bridgend Ravens, overcoming injury setbacks and playing for the love of the game.
Image credit: Leighton Davies
“Rugby has always been a massive part of my life. I’ve been playing for as long as I can remember, and it’s something that runs deep in my family. My dad played a big role in helping me fall in love with the game, especially getting to share that journey with my brother.
“For me, rugby is my release: those 80 minutes where I don’t think about anything else. I’ve had my setbacks with injuries, including two ACL reconstructions and shattering my fibula twice, but those challenges have only made me hungrier to come back stronger and keep enjoying the game I love.”
That was Lloyd Wilkins talking about the game he loves. From the quote above, you can tell Wilkins has a steadfast commitment to the game.
The start
Wilkins’ skills with a rugby ball were evident from an early age. It was with his local side that his rugby journey started. Pontyclun was more than just a club; it was a home that nurtured his growth both on and off the pitch. There, he developed not only as a rugby player but as a person. Wilkins speaks so fondly of his first club.
“Pontyclun RFC is incredibly special to me. It’s the only minis-and-juniors club I ever played for. I captained the side from U12s through to youth, which is something I’m really proud of.
“I still spend a couple of nights a week down there, whether it’s playing darts or just socialising with my mates. The club has an unbelievable mini and junior section, and the future is definitely bright. Pontyclun will always be a huge part of who I am.”
He attended Coleg y Cymoedd, where he had a memorable performance against Coleg Sir Gâr, crossing the try line to help his team retain the league title. Throughout this time, Wilkins was also linked with Cardiff Rugby and the Ospreys age-grade set-up.
When it was time for senior rugby, an opportunity with Pontypridd RFC arose.
Pontypridd RFC
Few names resonate in Welsh rugby quite like Pontypridd, a club that sits proudly among the game’s icons. It was at Sardis Road where Wilkins gained valuable experience and got his first taste of the Welsh Premiership. He talks about his time with Pontypridd.
“Playing for Pontypridd was special. It was my first senior club, and it gave me the chance to play alongside some top-quality players.
“Even though I was young and my game time was limited, I learned so much from being in that environment. It was an important stepping stone in my rugby journey.”
Pursuing more minutes, Wilkins made the move to Bedwas.
Bedwas
Whilst playing at Bedwas, Wilkins got regular time on the pitch, mostly at fly-half. He put in many fantastic displays for the club, and his influence on the pitch was clear. A decisive try against Narberth stands as one of the defining moments of his time in a Bedwas shirt. Going into the flickering embers of the contest, Bedwas was trailing until Wilkins crossed the try line to give his side victory.
His time at Bedwas went a long way in shaping the player he would become, and Wilkins looks back fondly at his time at the club.
“Bedwas was massive for my development, and I honestly can’t thank them enough. After recovering from my second ACL reconstruction, they took a chance on me when not many others would.
“From the moment I walked through the door, the coaches, players, and staff made me feel like part of a family. It wasn’t just about rugby; it was about belonging. That environment gave me the confidence and support I needed at a crucial point in my career.
“Getting to 50 caps for the club was really special, and last season I was lucky enough to play 24 games, scoring 22 tries and finishing with 337 points. But more than the stats, what I’ll always remember is how that group welcomed me, backed me, and helped me get my love for the game back.”
After impressing at Bedwas, Wilkins made the move to the Brewery Field.
Bridgend Ravens
Following some strong displays on permit last season, Wilkins joined Bridgend ahead of the 2025/26 season. Since his arrival, he has been a consistent presence, featuring at both fly-half and full-back. He will be pursuing wins and a strong finish to the season. Making several strong contributions, Wilkins has been enjoying his time at the Brewery Field. He talks about the club.
“I’m really enjoying my time with Bridgend. We’ve got a great coaching staff who share valuable knowledge, and it’s brilliant being able to play alongside some of my best friends, especially my brother.
“The highlight of my rugby career so far has definitely been making my debut for Bridgend alongside him. There’s a lot of potential in this squad, and I truly believe we can achieve great things.”
Wilkins has been in great form, and it will be fascinating to see what the future holds for him. As well as 15s, Wilkins has played 7s and has represented the UK.
“My main ambition is simple: to keep enjoying my rugby. As long as I’m enjoying it, I feel like I’m playing well. I just want to keep my head down, work hard, and make the most of every opportunity.
“I love both 15s and 7s. Playing for Preseli Babas was a great experience. We had a really successful summer in the London International 7s Series. I was also lucky enough to represent the UK 7s Select in Kenya, which was an unbelievable opportunity.
“At the end of the day, as long as I’m enjoying my rugby, that’s what matters most to me.”
For Wilkins, rugby has been about joy and living in the moment. Every time he steps onto the pitch, that love for the game shines through.
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From Llantwit Major to the Brewery Field: Edd Howley’s Story
Edd Howley reflects on identity, community, and a life shaped by Welsh rugby, from Llantwit Major to the Brewery Field.
Image credit: Leighton Davies
“When I'm back in Chicago, I feel it: another version of me, I was in it.” Djo’s End of Beginning makes me think about how different situations bring out unique versions of ourselves. Expression takes many forms. For rugby players, it lives in movement, collision, and creativity on the pitch. For Edd Howley, the sport has been a constant throughout his life. He has a fitting story to tell. Let’s dive in.
Beginning
“Rugby, for me, is all about the buzz of playing and the people you share it with. It’s competitive, sure, but it’s also about the laughs and the teamwork. You learn a lot without even realising it: how to keep going when things get tough and how much you can rely on others. And off the pitch, it’s the stories, the banter, and the friendships that make it special. That mix of challenge and fun is what rugby means to me.”
With rugby, like anything else, before you begin to blossom, a foundation must be built. Wales is blessed to have an abundance of historic rugby clubs, where the game’s next generation fall in love with rugby — not just the rules of the game, but the values within it. Llantwit Major was the birthplace of his story, but Pontyclun also had a huge influence on a young Howley.
“Pontyclun became a really important part of my rugby journey when I joined at under-11s. My hometown club, Llantwit Major, had disbanded for my age group, and while playing district schools rugby, I noticed a lot of the boys were with Pontyclun, so joining them felt like the natural choice. I stayed with the club right through to youth rugby, and I’ve only got good things to say about it. The clubhouse is fantastic, and from what I’ve seen, it’s a real hub for the local community.”
His journey beyond Pontyclun took him through Maesteg RFC and a short stint at Newport, early steps in senior rugby. But it was at Neath where his performances truly caught the eye, and his reputation started to grow.
Neath
Howley joined Neath ahead of the 2016/17 season. It didn’t take long for him to make an impression, garnering a reputation for his fierce counterattacking ability. His performances with Neath were notable, evidenced by his selection for the Ospreys Premiership Select and being named Principality Premiership Player of the Month in December 2016. January 2017 delivered one of the finest performances of his time at the Gnoll, as he produced a stunning 26-point display against Narberth. A hat-trick of tries, matched with flawless conversions, underlined a stunning performance to remember. He talks about his time at Neath whilst paying tribute to Maesteg.
“I joined Neath when I was 19, which was my first Welsh Premiership side, as it was called back then. I had a season with Maesteg RFC beforehand, which was my first taste of senior rugby, so it put me in good standing. Although we never had the greatest campaign with Neath over my three seasons, I learnt a lot, whether that be through older players in the squad or just playing against more experienced players in the league. But I have only fond memories of playing in front of the vocal Neath supporters and am still close to a few of the people I played with today.”
In 2018, it was time to turn the page and start a fresh chapter. Howley made his way to the capital.
Cardiff RFC
Arriving in the capital in 2018, he lit up the iconic Arms Park, scoring 19 tries in 22 matches. It was with Cardiff RFC that Howley got his first silverware, as he was part of the team that won the WRU National Cup in 2019, beating a strong Merthyr side. Throughout this time he also represented Cardiff Blues “A”. It was a fruitful period for Howley; he talks about his time with Cardiff.
“I made the move to Cardiff RFC due to ownership issues at Neath, where we had a really strong squad. In my first season, we went on to lift the Welsh Cup in the Principality, beating another strong team back then, Merthyr RFC. Going into my second season, I think we had lost one game in 15 matches and were through to another semi-final of the cup before Covid hit. Then the season and all competitions got cancelled, which was a shame, as this was probably when I was playing my best rugby. But it was an uncontrollable situation. Overall, though, I really enjoyed my time at Cardiff RFC.”
The move to the Brewery Field in 2020 felt like destiny for Howley, bringing him to familiar ground after his formative years at Bridgend College.
The Brewery Field
At Bridgend, Howley has truly become a consistent figure within the team, making over 100 appearances for the club. From scoring an infamous try against Swansea to being named Players’ Player and Supporters’ Player of the Season for 2023/24, his impact has been clear. However, if you wind the clock back, Howley was playing at Bridgend College, a place that has built a stellar reputation for nurturing talent. Howley talks about what it means to play for the Ravens and how much Bridgend College means to him.
“Playing for Bridgend over the past five seasons has been the most enjoyable part of my rugby career so far. On the field, results have been a mixed bag at times, but there’s so much talent and commitment within the club that success feels inevitable. Recently, I hit a milestone with my 100th appearance, and after 11 years in this league, I’d like to think I’ve picked up a fair bit of experience along the way.
“Off the field, the camaraderie is second to none. The changing room and medical room are honestly two of the best parts of turning up every week: the banter, the laughs, and that unique ability to give stick and take it back in equal measure.
“My journey with Bridgend actually started back in college as a 17-year-old in the Academy under Gareth Nicholas and Craig Warlow. Those two years were invaluable, not just for rugby but also for life lessons. Gareth Nicholas remains the best mentor I’ve ever had, and I still bump into him regularly. College gave me friendships that will last a lifetime; those really were the best days.
“Coming back to Bridgend Ravens now feels like a full-circle moment. From starting out in the College Academy to pulling on the jersey again, I’m genuinely content and still loving every minute of playing here.”
It’s clear that Bridgend means a lot to him, and when it comes to his future, his intentions are clear.
“Rugby-wise, the plan is simple: keep playing for Bridgend until my body gives up... or the club decides they’ve had enough of me. Either way, whichever comes first.”
Howley has made an impact wherever he’s gone. From one team to the next, his journey has been shaped by challenge and commitment. Through it all, his love for the game remains steadfast.
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Evan Yardley and the Game That helped Shape Him
A long-form rugby feature exploring Evan Yardley’s career, Welsh rugby pathways, and what it means to return home to Bridgend.
Image Credit: Leighton Davies
“Let me tell you that I love you and think about you all the time. Caledonia, you’re calling me, and now I’m going home. If I should become a stranger, you know that it would make me more than sad. Caledonia’s been everything I’ve ever had.”
Dougie MacLean’s Caledonia moves you whether you belong to its hills or not, because everyone knows the pull of home. There is something timeless, unshakeable, about where you come from. For me, that’s Bridgend. A hometown is more than just a place. It’s your start. It’s where you take your first steps in this hectic world, forge connections, and begin to dream. From first love to first heartbreak, most of the big firsts happen in your hometown. This place is a constant presence throughout.
Across the nation, you will find many towns and cities that adore the egg-shaped ball. One of those towns is Bridgend. Rugby is synonymous with this place. The Ravens are a big part of the town’s community. A player who has represented his hometown is Evan Yardley. Yardley is a dynamic athlete known for his work rate and experience. He’s a fantastic competitor with a fitting story.
The start
“Rugby has been a big part of my life, both on and off the field, with my dad and uncles all having played. It runs in the family — I’ve played since age five, so it’s a big part of who I am.”
Rugby runs deep in Yardley’s blood; his father and uncle once wore the Bridgend jersey. Coming from a town that has produced some legends of Welsh rugby, Yardley learnt his game on the muddy fields in the green and gold of Bridgend Athletic. In a clubhouse once graced by internationals, Yardley found the perfect ground to sharpen his game and grow into his talent. The Ath undoubtedly played a major role in shaping the player he became, but there is a rugby establishment that also played a big part in his career.
Bridgend College
Sustainability in rugby depends on fresh talent rising through the ranks. Now, Bridgend College stands as a cradle for the county’s future, a place where people grow, not just as players, but as people. Yardley is among an extensive list of phenomenal talents that have come through the ranks. Stacked with talented coaches, it’s no wonder that it’s gained a stellar reputation for nurturing young athletes. Yardley reflected on how Bridgend College shaped his journey, guiding him as a player and a person.
“Bridgend College was brilliant. Gareth Nicholas and Craig Warlow were amazing, but also the people I went to college with. We had a strong connection off the field, and I’m still close friends with many of them now. The training was also great. It was, and still is, a fantastic stepping stone for young athletes trying to become professionals.”
All the work he did prepared him for the next chapter in rugby.
A move to North Wales
After time with Ospreys, it was time for a new experience. Yardley moved to RGC. The North Walian club has a unique place in Welsh rugby, flying the flag for rugby fans in North Wales. In 2015, Yardley joined an ambitious Colwyn Bay-based side. His time with RGC was fruitful, achieving many milestones in the club’s history. Yardley played in RGC’s 2016 promotion campaign and in their historic Welsh Challenge Cup win in 2017. These two milestones were seismic for North Wales rugby, and Yardley was a consistent presence. A day that will live long in the minds of RGC fans is when their team stormed the capital and took silverware home. At the Principality Stadium, that 2017 side etched history by toppling six-time winners Pontypridd 15–11 to lift their first National Cup. A fascinating chapter in Yardley’s career, he looks back on those days with fondness.
“RGC was some of the best times I’ve had playing rugby. My contract at the Ospreys had ended, so I had nothing to lose by going up north. The facilities were fantastic, and again, the group of boys I was up there with had such a strong connection — it helped us perform better on the pitch. We had some success, winning the cup and often finishing in the top three in the league.”
After four seasons shaping his game in North Wales, Yardley closed the RGC chapter in May 2019 and journeyed back south.
Cardiff came calling
The Arms Park became Yardley’s home, joining the historic Cardiff RFC in 2019. He would amass 30 club appearances. As with RGC, he won trophies during his stint in the capital. In 2021–22, he stood tall in Cardiff RFC’s charge to glory, helping the club claim the Indigo Premiership crown. Throughout his career, there has been a theme of winning titles. Yardley became a consistent figure in Cardiff RFC’s squad. Then, during COVID, he got an opportunity to compete against the world’s best. On 11th December 2021, Yardley stepped onto the European stage for his senior Cardiff Rugby debut, squaring off against a star-laden Toulouse in the Champions Cup. He then packed down against Harlequins for a second appearance for the club. Yardley talks about playing at the Arms Park.
“Cardiff is such a historic club, and I was excited to be a part of it. Our team was exceptional because we had a mix of ex-pros and young players from the Blues. If it weren’t for COVID that season, we most likely would’ve won the double — we’d only lost one game all season before it was cut short.
“Getting called up to the Blues was great. I’d been in and out of the environment for a while, playing with the A team, but being called up for the Champions Cup was special. Obviously, the circumstances weren’t ideal, with players stuck in South Africa, but to share the field with some of the best players in the world over those couple of weeks is something I’m really proud of.”
Yardley gained a wealth of experience, and in 2022, it was time to come home.
Bridgend
Image Credit: Leighton Davies
Coming back to where it all began, in 2022, he was running out at the Brewery Field. Bringing a championship-winning mentality and a wealth of experience, Yardley played an essential role in the team. Fifty appearances in the Ravens jersey was more than just a milestone for Yardley, it underscores his value to Bridgend across three committed seasons. Yardley elaborates on why it’s so special to play for his hometown.
“I’m grateful to have played at Bridgend, my hometown club. It’s another team with a rich history, especially within my family. I’m played alongside many close friends, and my family gots to come and watch every week, which means a lot.
From Bridgend to the far corners of Welsh rugby, Yardley’s path tells the story of a player who gave everything to the game he loves.
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Home, Heart, and Hard Work: The Story of Ryan Wilkins
Follow Ryan Wilkins’ rugby journey through Pontyclun, Cardiff, Pontypridd and Bridgend as he reflects on career highs, community and enjoying the game.
Credit: Leighton Davies
“Now, if you know what you’re worth, then go out and get what you’re worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hits.” This quote from the film Rocky Balboa is powerful because it speaks directly to life. There will be highs and lows along the way, but true success comes from finding balance and maintaining a state of happiness. A player who is enjoying his rugby is Ryan Wilkins. He has played for some iconic clubs and can be found plying his trade at the Brewery Field. He has a fantastic story—let’s dive in.
The Beginning
“Rugby has been a massive part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started playing when I was six, and I’ve never really known anything else. It’s more than just a sport to me; it’s shaped who I am. The friendships, the values, the discipline, and the community around it all mean a lot. It’s given me so many great memories and opportunities, and I can’t imagine life without it.”
Like many players who come from Wales, rugby isn’t just a game; it’s a way of life. Pontyclun RFC is where Wilkins’ journey begins. He developed his game on Sunday mornings, representing Pontyclun. It’s at clubs like this where we learn what rugby is all about—not just passing a ball, but coming together as a community. Wilkins expressed how much the club means to him, and even though he no longer plays rugby for them, he continues to represent the club in a different sport.
“Pontyclun means everything to me. I’ve played all my minis and juniors there, and it really feels like home. The club has such a strong community feel; everyone knows everyone, and you always feel supported. I’m down there a few nights a week, and I’ve even helped coach the youth sides in previous years, which has been really rewarding. I also play for the Pontyclun RFC darts team on a Monday night. It’s more than a club; it’s a big part of my life.”
Wilkins’ talent was evident from a young age. He represented Wales U16s and U18s alongside the Cardiff Rugby Academy, which would lead to his professional debut.
Cardiff
In late 2021, Wilkins earned promotion from the Cardiff academy to the senior squad. His debut came on a grand stage against Toulouse in the Champions Cup. Wilkins also played for Cardiff RFC in the Welsh Premiership, being part of a squad that reached the final in 2023. Wilkins discussed his time there and how it significantly contributed to his development.
“Cardiff was massive for my development. The step up in intensity and professionalism really pushed me as a player. I learned a great deal from the coaches and from playing alongside high-quality players. It helped me understand what it takes to perform consistently at a higher level. The environment there really helped me grow, not just technically and physically, but also mentally as a competitor.”
On the hunt for more regular senior rugby, Wilkins made the move to Sardis Road.
Pontypridd
A product of the Ponty school system, Wilkins got the chance to run out for the historic side for the 2023/24 season. Hitting the ground running, Wilkins scored multiple tries against formidable opposition such as RGC and Ebbw Vale. Pontypridd were a side full of heart that achieved a lot that season, and Wilkins was a consistent presence on the team sheet. Wilkins spoke about what it meant to play for Pontypridd.
“Playing for Pontypridd was really special. It was refreshing to feel the whole town behind you. The supporters are so passionate, and you can sense the pride everyone has for the club. Winning the Dewar Shield with Pontypridd Schools was actually my first big experience with the club, and that’s something that’s always stuck with me. It’s a place that means a lot to me.”
The following year marked the birth of the new Super Rygbi Cymru, and Wilkins signed for the Ravens.
Bridgend
It didn’t take long for Wilkins to make an impact at the Brewery Field. He posed a massive attacking threat and provided steadfast defence. During his first year, the team had an outstanding run toward the back end of the season, securing big wins against Swansea and Llandovery. Wilkins played a significant role in those victories and was a standout throughout his initial season in Bridgend. Speaking to him, it’s clear that playing for the team means a lot to him.
“I’m absolutely loving my time with the Ravens. I get to play alongside some of my best mates and my brother, which makes it even more special. There’s an excellent culture in the squad; we’re all close off the field as well as on it. The coaches have been brilliant too. I really believe in what they’re building, and I’m enjoying having a bit more of a leadership role in the group.”
As time goes on, he will be looking to make an even greater impact on the pitch.
“For me, it’s all about keeping things simple: just keep enjoying my rugby and focus on getting better every day. I don’t like to look too far ahead; I prefer to stay in the moment and make the most of whatever opportunities come my way. As long as I’m improving and enjoying it, I’m happy.” For me, this quote from Wilkins hits the nail on the head. It’s easy to get carried away, but if you remain present and seek happiness, that’s what life is all about. Wilkins carries skill and spirit, with fierce passion for rugby—his next chapter promises to be special.
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