From Passion to Purpose: Ryan and Lloyd Wilkins’ New Coaching Endeavour
Discover LRW Coaching, where experienced players Ryan and Lloyd Wilkins provide high-quality rugby coaching focused on skill development, rugby IQ, confidence, and creating well-rounded athletes on and off the pitch.
Photo Credit: Leighton Davies
Passion. What is passion? A deep love and unrelenting desire for a given field. For Ryan and Lloyd Wilkins, that passion is rugby, a game where the brothers have forged great memories, and now they are giving back with the creation of LRW Coaching. With years of experience in the game, they now turn their focus to guiding the next generation, passing on lessons that go far beyond the pitch.
Starting up
“We started the coaching business because we saw a real opportunity to give young players better access to high-quality coaching and development. We are passionate about the game and wanted to create an environment where players can improve their skills, build confidence, and enjoy rugby while developing the right habits from an early stage.”
At the beginning of one’s rugby journey, foundations are key. Having a strong skillset to build on is vital for a young player. However, it’s not just ability on the pitch that makes a player great. It’s about mindset, the ability to carry yourself with confidence and an unwavering appreciation for rugby. The Wilkins brothers aim to help young players build confidence and enjoy rugby throughout their programme.
There is an emphasis on providing an understanding of key moments in the game.
“Our training will focus on developing well-rounded players. This includes strong attacking skills, a solid defensive structure, and a major emphasis on rugby IQ, including understanding the game, decision-making, and reading situations. We want players not only to execute skills but also to understand why they are doing them.”
Ryan and Lloyd are both fantastic players and have built a wealth of knowledge to pass on.
Experiences
Photo Credit: Leighton Davies
Their journey has seen them develop through Cardiff and Ospreys pathways, pull on the Pontypridd jersey, and now line up together at Bridgend. It’s a shared story shaped by progress and passion. Whether it is Lloyd representing GB Sevens or Ryan squaring off against Toulouse, they have each achieved a great deal within the game. That experience is bound to help with their coaching.
“Our experience gives us a strong understanding of what it takes to perform and improve at different levels of the game. We have faced many of the same challenges players encounter, which allows us to relate to them and guide them effectively. It also enables us to pass on practical knowledge, not just theory, and to design sessions that are realistic, relevant, and engaging.”
Equipped with experience and insight, they are perfectly placed to shape players within a programme driven by bold ambitions and a clear vision.
Plans
“The main goal of the coaching business is to help players reach their full potential, both on and off the field. We aim to develop confident, skilled, and intelligent rugby players while also building character, discipline, and a strong work ethic.”
Ryan and Lloyd’s mission goes beyond creating players on the pitch; it’s about teaching the values the game is built on, helping people grow off the pitch as well as on it. This is a plan to help young players in the area seize opportunities.
“Our ambition is to grow the coaching business into a well-respected programme known for developing high-quality players. In the future, we would like to expand the number of players involved, introduce more specialised training sessions, and potentially create pathways into higher levels of rugby. Ultimately, we want it to be a place where players of all abilities can come and improve.”
Life can be difficult, full of emotions and stress. It moves quickly, too quickly at times. The grains of sand eke through our fingertips faster than we like to admit. That’s why, as human beings, all we can do is keep moving forward. We must strive for improvement and continue to grow. Most of all, we must pursue our passions. For Ryan and Lloyd, it’s about more than rugby. It’s about shaping individuals, helping players grow in character as much as in ability, and leaving a lasting impact far beyond the field.
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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.
Curious about who’s behind the content? Check out our About Us page or visit our Join The Team page to get involved.