Carwyn Penny: The Weight and Passion of Representing Newport
Newport RFC full-back Carwyn Penny reflects on his journey through Gloucester, Dragons and Cornish Pirates, and what it means to represent home in Black and Amber.
Photo Credit: Simon Latham
“But if I should become a stranger, you know that it would make me more than sad.” The spirit of Caledonia by Dougie MacLean mirrors rugby beautifully. At its heart, the game is about belonging, community, and finding a place that feels like home. It also provides a player with the opportunity to represent where they come from. A hometown is vital to our makeup as humans: a place that is unchanging in one’s heart. When full-back Carwyn Penny puts on the iconic Black and Amber jersey, it comes with a weight. A weight that comes with giving everything for home.
The start and crossing the Severn
“Rugby means a lot to me. It’s given me opportunities, friendships, and experiences that I’ll always be grateful for. I love the competitiveness of the game and the team environment that comes with it.” For Penny, rugby is more than a sport; it is an outlet for gratitude. A platform that provides bonds that will last a lifetime. A game that has taken him to different places.
After building his foundation at Newport High School Old Boys, the next chapter began with a chance at Clifton College, an opportunity that opened the door to the Gloucester Academy and pushed his rugby journey forward. During that time, he was exposed to a world-class environment. He also had run-outs for Cinderford, where he scored tries against the likes of Hinckley and took on future opposition in Llandovery. His time with Gloucester was the beginning of his journey. Penny spoke about that time in his life.
“Being part of the Gloucester setup was a great experience. The standards were incredibly high every day, and it taught me a lot about professionalism and what it takes to compete at that level.”
As stated before, it was just the beginning. The Welshman would go on to represent his nation at age-grade level and embark on a journey into the professional game.
Dragons and Pirates
After leaving Gloucester, Rodney Parade would become Penny’s home. He would represent the region against the likes of Castres. He entered the contest in the 66th minute to make his debut. The full-back got his first start in front of a home crowd a week later. Under Rodney’s lights, he was steady under the high ball as the Dragons secured an impressive 47–5 victory over Enisei-STM. It meant a lot to Penny to represent the club.
“My time at the Dragons was something I really enjoyed. Representing a Welsh region was a proud moment for me, and I learned a huge amount from the coaches and players around me during my time there.”
Following his time with Dragons, a new adventure unfolded. The English Championship came calling. Penny would don the colours of Cornish Pirates in a fruitful spell.
“My spell at Cornish Pirates was brilliant. It’s a fantastic club with passionate supporters and a strong rugby culture. I really enjoyed the environment there, and it helped me develop a lot as a player.”
With a two-year stint in Cornwall completed, it was time to come home.
Newport
“I’m really enjoying my rugby at Newport at the moment. It’s a great group, and I’m enjoying being part of what we’re building at the club.”
Since arriving at Newport RFC in 2023, Penny has been a consistent presence. A vital part of a team that won the Super Rygbi Cymru title last season, along with capturing the cup back in March, the club has been at the top of the semi-professional game. Penny thinks the club has a bright future, while also continuing to improve as a player.
“Looking ahead, my ambition is to keep improving as a player, compete at the highest level I can, and continue pushing myself to develop both on and off the pitch. Hopefully, I can also help Newport win a few more trophies along the way.”
Passion fuels him, drive pushes him forward, and his love for home is steadfast. Penny’s connection to Newport runs deep, and every performance reflects the pride he carries onto the pitch.
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