“I Genuinely Wouldn’t Want to Be Anywhere Else”: Henry Palmer and Newport RFC
Henry Palmer reflects on his journey through Welsh rugby, his time with Cross Keys and the Dragons, and why Newport RFC has become far more than just a club.
Photo Credit: Simon Latham
“I think I’ve been a rugby player since I was about eight or nine years old, so it’s been part of who I am for a long time. Obviously, that shifts and changes over time, and now rugby means something a bit different to me.
“I know it sounds cliché, but I’m part of the family at Newport RFC, and I feel like I’ll be part of that family for life. Rugby is still a sport that I love for the competition, the physicality, the skill and the execution involved, but it’s become much more than that. It’s where I’ve made friends for life.
“When I eventually finish playing for Newport, I’ll still be a supporter. If I’m honest, I don’t watch a huge amount of rugby outside of Newport these days. I tend to follow the NRL in Australia because it’s something different. After playing for 21 or 22 years, you can become a little saturated with the game, and I’ve found the NRL to be a breath of fresh air. The differences between league and union, and the game’s little intricacies, have really interested me.
“But to summarise, rugby to me is all about Newport. It’s about the friendships I’ve made and the brotherhood among the players who put the work in week after week and turn up on a Saturday ready to mix it up.”
Henry Palmer’s relationship with rugby has taken many forms over the years. Ever-changing though it may be, one constant remains: his love for Newport RFC. A true steward of the club, Palmer’s story is one defined by passion and loyalty.
Foundations
Even though he would become synonymous with running out in the jersey of Newport RFC, that is not where his story began. Palmer built the foundations of his game on the pitches of Monmouth RFC. A player’s first club is vital, as it provides a platform to learn the game, not just from a skills perspective but also the values rugby holds. After building his foundation at Monmouth, he would make the move to Cross Keys to kick off an exciting chapter of his senior rugby career.
“I really enjoyed my time at Cross Keys. We had a pretty decent side and were often second to a very strong Pontypridd team. It’s funny really, because neither Cross Keys nor Pontypridd are in the top flight anymore, but we had some absolute battles over the years.
“Most of my involvement came around 2013, and we played two finals against Pontypridd. Unfortunately, we had our backsides handed to us on both occasions, but I loved every minute of it.
“For the first half of the season, I was playing second or third fiddle to Gerwyn Price, who later became a professional darts player. He was a great talent, and it was a privilege to play alongside players like him.
“I actually had the opportunity to move to Newport a bit earlier than I eventually did and, looking back, I probably wish I’d gone sooner. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cross Keys, but the enjoyment I’ve had playing for Newport really puts into perspective just how much I’ve loved my time there.”
Throughout that time, he also enjoyed working in a professional set-up with the Dragons. Palmer reflects on his time in the set-up and considers what he might do differently now.
“I had a couple of games for the Dragons Academy A team and represented the under-18s as well. I enjoyed those experiences, and they meant a lot at the time.
“Looking back, though, everything felt very serious. I wish I’d focused a little more on playing with a smile on my face and not taken things quite so seriously. I’ve seen players who have gone all the way, and one thing they all seem to have in common, alongside the professionalism, is that they genuinely enjoy what they do.
“I think I took things a bit too much to heart during that period. Maybe if I’d enjoyed myself more, I would have appreciated the moment and looked back on that time with even greater fondness.
“It was great to play for the Dragons, and it meant a lot to me, but when I compare those experiences with everything I’ve had at Newport, I know where my greatest enjoyment has come from over the years.”
The passion in Palmer’s words is unmistakable. His words reflect a deep connection to Newport and highlight just how much the club means to him.
Newport
“I’ve loved every minute of playing for Newport. There have been some low points over the years, but far more highs. Earlier, I spoke about my identity as a rugby player, but for me, being a Newport player is my identity.
“I’ve made friends for life. I’ve been best man at a teammate’s wedding and shared experiences that are far bigger than rugby itself. Newport has given me those opportunities.
“When I finish playing, I’ll still be a supporter of the club. I’ll always put my hand up and help in whatever way I can because of everything I’ve gained from representing such a historic and iconic club.
“It means a great deal to me personally, and it means a great deal to my family as well. I genuinely wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Palmer has enjoyed a great deal of success with Newport, from becoming the first Super Rygbi Cymru champions to establishing themselves as one of the most consistent sides in domestic Welsh rugby. Palmer is enjoying his rugby more than ever.
“I’ve been playing senior rugby since I was 17 or 18, and I honestly can’t remember enjoying a season more than the one we’ve just had.
“We came away with two out of three trophies, and we knew we’d missed an opportunity to complete the treble by winning the cup, the shield and the league. We knew we were capable of it and perhaps let ourselves down a little in that semi-final.
“But I absolutely love it. The rugby on a Saturday is brilliant, but I also love turning up for training on a Tuesday and Thursday. Especially after a social weekend, when everyone’s had a few beers, the atmosphere in the changing room is absolutely buzzing.
“Those nights out, bonding sessions and big games all bring the group closer together. The smiles on everyone’s faces, the camaraderie, the jokes, winding each other up and the constant banter are all a huge part of it.
“I think that’s one of the reasons we’ve been one of the top teams in the league over the last few years. We’ve got a very tight-knit group. A lot of us are getting on a bit now, but that core group of players who have been together for five, ten or even more years has been crucial to our success.
“If you asked any of those boys whether they enjoy it, they’d all say yes immediately. And if you asked whether they enjoy it as much as they used to, I think most of them would say they enjoy it even more now. That tells you everything you need to know.”
The future
“As long as I’m still playing, I want to keep contributing to the club.
“A couple of years ago, if you’d asked me about my ambitions, I probably would have said I’d love to play for Spain. I qualify through my mother and grandmother. My grandmother was born in Madrid and lived there until she was 20 before moving to the UK.
“I’ve got that Spanish blood, and I always thought it would have been a really special thing to do, not only from a rugby perspective but also as a way of connecting with that side of my family. My Spanish isn’t amazing, but it gets me by. Whether I would have been good enough or whether they would have wanted me, I don’t know, but I always thought it would have been a fantastic opportunity.
“I’ve spent my whole rugby career in Wales and never really had the chance to do anything on an international stage, so representing Spain would have been something very special.
“Now, though, my ambitions are simple. I just want to keep contributing to Newport. A few boys are approaching major milestones in their appearances, and we all want to help them reach them.
“Eventually, I think five or six of us will probably hang up our boots around the same time. When that happens, I know we’ll look back with enormous pride and affection. Like I’ve said before, we’ll all remain supporters of the club.
“For now, I just want to enjoy the next few years and keep contributing in whatever way I can.”
Loyalty, passion and pride have been the hallmarks of Palmer’s story. Years may pass, but his commitment to the club he loves remains as strong as ever.
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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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Chasing the Dream: The Journey of Harrison James
Follow Harrison James’ rugby journey from Cardiff RFC and Wales U20s to BUCS Super Rugby and Newport RFC, driven by ambition and belief.
Image credit: Simon Latham
“Rugby was a massive part of growing up and was all I ever wanted to do. I was probably like every youngster in Wales, and all I wanted was to be a professional. I started at St. Joe’s when I was 5, then moved to Rumney at age 9 due to the club disbanding, and then moved to Llanishen the year before high school, where my real ambition began.”
An ambition blossomed from the Cardiff area. Harrison James has been carving his path in rugby; he has run out for iconic clubs. James has a fitting story; let’s explore.
Cardiff RFC
Cardiff has a unique energy, a sense of life and anticipation that you feel the moment you arrive in the Welsh capital. Rugby is at the heart of the city. Of course, the Principality Stadium is the first thing that comes to mind. However, next to the grand stadium, you will find the Arms Park. Surrounded by history and the echoes of famous victories, provided the stage for James’ first taste of senior rugby. Few could have been more fitting.
Over his tenure at Cardiff, he played over 50 games and tallied over 300 points. The 2023/24 season marked a defining chapter, with his boot and brilliance combining for a remarkable 179-point haul. Throughout this time, he got exposure to the Cardiff Rugby set-up. James talks about his love for Cardiff.
“Cardiff Rugby and RFC were a massive part of my development. Being my home club, it meant a huge amount to me to sign there, as I had spent my childhood watching them. Going into a professional set-up as a 16-year-old, I was probably quite naïve about what was required to succeed at that level. However, as I went through the academy, I picked up so much from not only the senior players but also my peers, many of whom are now internationals. I’m very grateful to have played for Cardiff RFC over 50 times and to have won trophies there at a young age.”
His talent was clear, and he even represented his country at age-grade level.
Wales U20s
For any young player in Wales, wearing the national jersey is the ultimate dream. James lived that moment when he represented Wales at U20s. He earned two caps, coming off the bench against Ireland and France in 2023. James talks about what it meant to represent Wales.
“Being picked for U20s was huge for me, having missed U18s through Covid. It felt like a big step in the right direction. I was so grateful to get two caps against Ireland and France; however, I was unfortunate to miss the World Cup. The boys I played with at U20s were great, and I’m still great friends with a lot of them now.”
It wasn’t just Cardiff and Wales U20s that helped shape a young player’s game. Cardiff University also played a significant role in James’ journey.
Cardiff University
For a player pursuing high-quality competition, you would be hard-pressed to find a better league than BUCS Super Rugby. Representing Cardiff University, James became a consistent presence on the team sheet and made a lasting impact.
With the game finely poised and time running out, James stepped up in the dying embers of the contest. The Wednesday night university crowd fell silent as he dropped the ball onto his boot and struck it cleanly. The drop goal split the posts, clinching a dramatic 25–22 victory. He also played a role in Cardiff University’s win over Cardiff Met at the Arms Park in 2024, further underlining his composure under pressure.
At the end of the day, rugby is all about enjoyment. James credits Cardiff University for reigniting his love for the sport and for attracting attention across the Severn River.
“After finishing with Cardiff Rugby, I struggled slightly with enjoyment, if I’m honest. Playing at university allowed me to express myself without having as much pressure that I often put on myself. It also allowed me to play a different type of rugby that is a lot faster, and having to adapt to situations quickly, I believe, really helped improve my game. The main thing about university that I am grateful for is the enjoyment of playing with my mates in an environment that’s professionally tailored to develop and excel in both my rugby and academics. I feel that playing in the BUCS really helped, as playing in England allows you to be seen more for potential opportunities, which is probably what helped me get onto the bench for Gloucester in the Prem Cup earlier this season. Despite not getting on, this experience was invaluable.”
Nowadays, you will find James running out for Newport in the Super Rugby Cymru.
Newport RFC
27 August marked James’ arrival at Newport RFC, seen as a strong addition to the defending champions. James has made several appearances for Newport. Now, as we approach the business end of the season, James and Newport will be hunting down a big result. Currently, they sit fourth, but everything is still to play for. James talks about his move to Newport.
“Newport has been a new challenge coming into the new SRC league. The boys at the club were extremely welcoming, and I have thoroughly enjoyed playing with them. Despite our slow start, I believe we are in a great place to do well in the league and cup this year.”
James has been a regular on Newport’s team sheet. It will be fascinating to see what the future holds for him.
“The goal is still the same: to try and get back into a full professional environment, and who knows where this can take me. However, I will also have my degree, which I will graduate with in July, and I will be excited to use it if my ambition of professional rugby doesn’t come.”
Much is still yet to be written in James’ rugby story, but his ambition burns bright. With his sights set firmly on the professional stage, the next chapter feels full of promise. It began at the age of five as an obsession with the game, a boy dreaming of the professional ranks, and now, he continues to chase that very same dream.
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The Newport Way: Tyron Morris’ Story
A profile of Tyron Morris, charting his rugby journey from Risca RFC to leading Newport RFC, exploring his playing career, coaching philosophy, and impact on the club.
Image Credit: Simon Latham
There are words that are often used to describe flankers: hard-working, driven, and passionate, with a burning desire to be at their best on the rugby pitch. Tyron Morris is a person who has a steadfast devotion to the game. From the pitch to the touchline, his journey through rugby has been rich and rewarding. As a Welshman who has seen the game from every angle, his story is worth exploring.
Start
Hailing from the Newport area, rugby was always going to have a grip on his life. Risca RFC is where Morris took his first steps in rugby. It’s at clubs like Risca where a young player learns what the rugby community is all about: friendships, support, and enjoyment. Rugby isn’t just a game; it’s a way of life. Morris talks about the club and what rugby means to him.
“Rugby is far more than just a sport to me. It has been part of my life since I was a seven-year-old playing mini rugby at Risca RFC and standing on the touchline watching my father play for our local club. The game has shaped who I am today. It has given me incredible opportunities to travel, meet new people, experience new places, and, most importantly, build lifelong friendships. That continues today as I progress through the coaching world. Rugby constantly pushes me to learn, develop, and grow both on the field and off. I genuinely love connecting with people, sharing memories, and enjoying the banter through both the highs and the lows. Rugby is a place where I truly feel happy and at home.”
Risca marked the beginning of his journey. A journey that would see him run onto the field and coach renowned clubs.
Ebbw Vale
Renowned for their physical edge and uncompromising style, Ebbw Vale provided the perfect proving ground. It was in that environment that Morris forged his game during the early 2000s. He enjoyed many fruitful moments with Ebbw Vale, including a memorable upset against Neath to reach the Welsh Cup quarter-finals, where he crossed the try line. Morris also scored in the 2003 Gwent Derby. Scrum-half Bryan Shelbourne put the kick in for Morris to pounce on the ball for a first-half score. He elaborates on his time with Ebbw Vale and his arrival at another iconic team, Cross Keys RFC.
“I will always be grateful to Lee Jones, who was Head Coach at Ebbw Vale at the time, for seeing something in me at just 19 years of age and offering me my first professional contract. It was a steep learning curve, stepping up from Cross Keys Youth and Wales Under-20s into senior rugby, training and playing alongside Ebbw Vale greats such as Mark Jones and Kingsley Jones. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ebbw Vale and learned a great deal from both the players and the coaching staff, particularly Lee Jones and Mike Ruddock, experiences I often reflect on now in my own coaching journey. Unfortunately, my professional playing career was relatively short, lasting three seasons, largely due to the formation of the Newport Gwent Dragons, which brought together Newport RFC and Ebbw Vale RFC into one regional squad. Following that, I returned to Cross Keys RFC, where I enjoyed my rugby as club captain while working full-time as a mechanical fitter at Llanwern Steelworks.”
After his time at Ebbw Vale, Morris moved to Cross Keys, where he quickly became an influential figure at the club. During this period, the determined flanker also made a memorable brief appearance for Caerphilly, leaving a lasting impression.
Playing at the Principality Stadium
There is one place where Welsh players dream of playing: the Principality Stadium. The grand stadium in the heart of the Welsh capital has hosted some monumental occasions. That famous pitch was no stranger to Morris, who returned there more than once. One standout moment came when he pulled on the Caerphilly RFC shirt for a memorable one-off appearance, on permit from Cross Keys. Morris explains how special the stadium is, and that appearance with Caerphilly.
“I have been very fortunate to play in some incredible venues around the world, none more special than our own national stadium, the Millennium Stadium, which I still believe is the best in the world. I was lucky enough to reach three finals as a player and three as a coach, but nothing compares to running out onto that pitch as a player. I had the honour of playing there once with Ebbw Vale, once with Risca RFC — an incredibly proud moment for my family, friends, and hometown — and, strangely, once with Caerphilly RFC, a club I only represented on that single occasion. That appearance came in the Welsh Cup Final against Neath RFC. Cross Keys had been knocked out in the quarter-finals, and because I had missed one earlier round, I was eligible to play on a permit. I still remember the phone call from the Caerphilly Head Coach asking if I would be interested in playing in the final. At first, I genuinely thought it was a joke. Once I realised it wasn’t, my answer was immediate: absolutely. Although we lost to a very strong Neath side that day, led by a typically physical Mark Jones, it remains a special memory. I also played alongside Mark Workman, who I didn’t realise at the time would later become a close friend and colleague, having worked together at Newport RFC for over a decade.”
Morris established his reputation at storied clubs like Ebbw Vale and Cross Keys, but it was time to return home.
Returning home
As with his playing career, Morris’ coaching journey began at home with Risca RFC. Starting as a player-coach, his role quickly evolved. By immersing himself in coaching, Morris guided his team to two promotions and a memorable Plate final in Cardiff. These experiences shaped his early coaching identity.
“My coaching journey began at my local club, Risca RFC, initially as a player-coach. I was reluctant to stop playing, despite my body telling me otherwise after two major knee reconstructions. At 27, I decided to fully commit to coaching. I was extremely fortunate to be mentored by Chris Evans, who gave me the freedom to experiment, learn, and develop my craft. That period taught me the importance of positive relationships and creating a fun, competitive environment. We focused on giving everyone opportunities and built strong first- and second-team squads that competed fiercely in training. I believe that environment played a key role in our promotion from Division 4 to Division 2 and in reaching a Plate Final at the Millennium Stadium within four seasons, a moment I remain incredibly proud of. Looking back, my time at Risca shaped my understanding of the game, my coaching philosophy, and my approach to planning and delivering sessions, often while juggling multiple roles as coach, kit manager, and water carrier. Most importantly, it taught me how to communicate effectively and set clear standards. Coaching is a constant learning process, and I continue to develop these fundamentals every day as I strive to be the best coach and person I can be.”
His tenure at Risca RFC equipped him for Newport RFC’s invitation.
Newport RFC
Morris joined Newport RFC as a forwards coach under head coach Craig Warlow. In April 2019, he was named head coach. Morris has achieved tremendous success with Newport. Ending a 21-year wait, the Black and Ambers claimed the WRU National Cup in 2022. Rather than standing still, they carried that momentum into another impressive campaign. During the 2022/2023 season, Newport went on a 15-match winning streak and reached two finals. Fast forward to May 2025, Newport were victorious in a Gwent derby, beating Ebbw Vale 27–18 to become the first Super Rygbi Cymru champions. You can tell that the team is special to Morris, the head coach, who beams when talking about what Newport RFC means to him.
“What Newport RFC means to me is simple: it means everything. It is my rugby family. At Newport, we talk about ‘The Newport Way,’ which is about far more than what happens on the pitch. It’s about how we treat each other, our sense of belonging, and our shared responsibility as people. I will always be deeply grateful to Newport RFC, Craig Warlow, and Will Godfrey for giving me the opportunity to coach at such a historic club. I have built lifelong friendships and created defining memories that will stay with me forever. I am just as driven today to make Newport RFC a great club as I was on my very first day. Walking onto the Rodney Parade pitch never loses its magic; the history, the emotion, and the legacy of those who have gone before us make it a truly special place. Ultimately, what makes Newport RFC special to me is its people: the players who give everything week after week; the volunteers who arrive early and leave late without seeking recognition; the supporters who stand by the club in all conditions; and the staff who keep everything moving behind the scenes. Together, they are what turn a club into a family — The Newport Way.”
Newport currently sit third in the SRC table, Morris and the team will be pursuing victories in upcoming matches.
“Looking ahead, I want to continue developing myself as a person, husband, father, and coach. I am driven to deepen my specialist knowledge within rugby so that I can make a meaningful difference in the development of young players, something I take great pride and enjoyment in. It is the reason I coach. My ambition is to continue strengthening Newport RFC’s player and coach pathways while contributing to the club’s legacy and culture. One day, I would love to make rugby my full-time profession. It is part of who I am, deep in my bones, and something I am truly passionate about.”
Rugby runs through Morris’ veins; it’s not just a game, but a deep part of his soul. Each challenge, lesson, and victory on the field continues to inspire his growth as both a coach and a person.
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