Driven by Ambition: Ryan Cozens’ Rugby Journey
Discover the rise of rugby talent Ryan Cozens, from local club rugby to Cardiff Met and international ambitions with Canada.
Photo Credit: @CardiffMetSport/Carl Robertson
“I have played rugby since I was 5, and it’s been a huge part of my life and of growing up. My dad was my coach and brought me into the game, and it has taken me across the UK and around the world. All the people you connect with, I would say, are the biggest part of it. I think I’ve always been naturally very competitive, and rugby has given me a platform to express that, and it’s a game that has essentially shaped my life.”
Life can be busy at times, which is why you must find a passion that drives you. For Ryan Cozens, that passion is rugby. In every collision and carry, he finds freedom and expression. It’s part of a fitting story that deserves to be told.
Where it all began
A game that has taken Cozens to fantastic places, but his story begins at Sidmouth RFC. Cozens built a foundation at the club that would help his game blossom in the years that followed. It’s at clubs like Sidmouth that a lifelong love is sparked and the values are first learnt. Cozens talks about what Sidmouth means to him.
“Sidmouth RFC is a huge part of my life, playing there from U8s through to playing seniors before I came to uni. It’s a great club with a brilliant atmosphere there, and some of the best rugby memories I’ve had growing up were there.”
With each year, his game grew sharper, and when the next step called, he chose Cardiff Met as the place to continue his journey. The decision was driven by ambition and belief.
Cardiff Met
“Met has been crucial for my progress. Before coming here, I didn’t know what my rugby was going to look like. I never played any academy or high-level schoolboy rugby, but since I got here, it has played the biggest role in my growth as a player. Met has given me the platform and the connections to help me push on in my rugby.”
After arriving at Cardiff Met, Cozens’ development went from strength to strength; being in that environment is bound to sharpen a competitor’s skill set. A new environment forces you to grow. He has competed in both Super BUCS and the Welsh Premiership. December 2024 brought a standout display against Neath, as he rose to the occasion in front of a buzzing Gnoll crowd. The result was a thrilling, high-scoring spectacle. Coming to Cyncoed Campus was a fresh challenge. Cozens talks about playing rugby in Wales.
“Playing in Wales has definitely been eye-opening. Being able to play both BSR and Prem has given me two different views of what rugby is like here. I have loved playing here because it makes you switch from a kind of uni mentality to a men’s rugby mentality, even more so here in Wales, and the knowledge and experience you get from playing here is invaluable.”
His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed and he has already had a taste of the international stage.
Canada
Every rugby player dreams of playing on the international stage. Cozens is well on his way to achieving this goal. He has already run out for Canada U20s, taking on the likes of USA U20s. In 2025, he was included in the senior autumn squad, but he was still waiting for a senior cap. He talks about what it means to represent Canada.
“Getting capped at U20s and being lucky enough to go on tour with the men’s 15s, though I didn’t get my cap yet, has been a huge honour for me. My mum is an extremely proud Canadian, and through her, I have become one too. I wasn’t sure what it would be like, especially at Under-20 level, but as soon as the anthems come on and you realise it is a massive moment, it’s very special.”
Cozens has already proven himself to be a great player; it will be fascinating to see what the future holds.
“For future ambitions, I am not entirely sure what my next route is. I can say that my biggest ambition is to play for Canada and to put myself in the best position to represent Canada as much as I possibly can.”
Cozens’ focus is clear: growth, excellence, and representing Canada with pride on the international stage. With ambition driving him forward, the next chapters promise to be defining ones.
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