Rugby at the Heart of It All: The Sam Berry Story
Discover the rugby journey of Sam Berry, from local Welsh clubs to national honours and university rugby, driven by passion, family and ambition.
Image Credit: Cardiff Met Sport/Carl Robertson
“Rugby to me has always played a large part in my social life. Playing in Wales, it feels like the world is so small; everyone knows everyone. It seems there is always a connection through rugby. This sense of community is quite comforting, and I'm sure many others who grew up playing rugby in Wales feel the same. My first introduction to rugby was watching the Newport Gwent Dragons, and I immediately idolised Jason Tovey and Taulupe Faletau. From then on, I knew what I wanted to do.”
Hailing from Pontypool, rugby was always going to be a part of Sam Berry’s life. From the local fields of Usk to the competitive stage of university rugby, his journey has been driven by passion. Along the way, the game has already given him moments he’ll never forget.
The beginning
“My dad coached me at Usk RFC. He played a major influence on my interest in rugby, and he also supported me in other sports in the town. It was a very small setup, so he put a massive emphasis on engagement and enjoyment.”
For Berry, his journey began at Usk RFC, where he was coached by his father. It was here that the fly-half learned the fundamentals of the game — not just on the pitch, but off it as well. He took values such as community, family and enjoyment to Pontypool United. It was at this club that he played his youth rugby, before getting his first taste of senior rugby with Cross Keys. At this iconic ground, he got some game time against the likes of Pontypool. He talks about senior rugby with Cross Keys.
“Cross Keys was my first experience of senior rugby and a fantastic setting for me as a 17/18-year-old, learning quickly about the physicality, pressure and expectations within a senior team. The coaches put a lot of effort into me and ensured I was comfortable in this new environment, making me feel like part of the Cross Keys family right away. They trusted me as their starting 10, gaining plenty of valuable experience, as well as so many positive memories.”
Continuing his development, Berry joined the Dragons academy. While rising through age grade ranks, he proudly wore the Welsh jersey for various teams, with each step strengthening his technical base.
Wales
Everyone who picks up a rugby ball in Wales dreams of running out in that famous red jersey. Berry had the chance to represent Wales at the U18s and U19s levels. Notably, the outside half started in a match against England U20s, where he tallied eight points. Berry talked about the honour of representing Wales.
“Representing Wales has been the highlight of my rugby journey. The experiences shared with lads from every region were very special, knowing that each player was just as proud to play for their country as I was. There’s no feeling like putting on the red jersey and singing the anthem in front of my family and friends who have supported me so much throughout my journey. The U18s Six Nations Festival took place in the home of French rugby during COVID, making it a somewhat unique experience and presenting its challenges. I also represented the Wales U19s team, playing against Italy on the Brewery Field in Bridgend, as well as the U20s side that took on Scotland up in Glasgow, but unfortunately did not receive a cap for either of those games.”
His talent was clear, and like many great operators, he found himself at Cyncoed Campus.
Cardiff Met
For any young player chasing improvement, few settings offer more than Cardiff Met. It’s a place where talent is nurtured and ambition is sharpened. Berry has had the opportunity to compete in Super BUCS and the Welsh Premiership. Recently, Berry started at fly-half in a high-octane clash against Nottingham, which ended 50–49, as well as a close win against Exeter. Playing in two competitive leagues is bound to accelerate his progress. Berry talks about how vital Cardiff Met has been to his journey.
“Cardiff Met has played an absolutely massive part in my senior career so far. It is a place I would recommend to any young rugby player. During my time at Cardiff Met, I sadly did not receive a contract extension with Dragons RFC, but the structure and support in place really helped with that hurdle. The quality of players within Met is incredible, paired with the training schedule that mirrors the demands of the professional game, and it seems to only improve each year. But it’s all about enjoying that pressure on those Wednesdays under the lights, putting in a gritty performance in front of the ultras and celebrating together after. It’s a great platform in terms of standard and the audience it attracts is worldwide.”
Cardiff Met has also shaped his senior career, but Berry has also been involved with an iconic Welsh club.
Pontypool
Recently, Berry has been involved with Pontypool, speaking about the club. He can tell that it means a great deal to the fly-half.
“A place I would describe as home, and my dad’s childhood club; representing the badge means the world to my family and me. At the start of this year, I joined Pontypool for pre-season, a group with a DNA of passion, hard work, talent and honesty. I played in every pre-season fixture but sadly couldn't quite make the matchday squad of 23 once the season officially started. That's when I started a conversation with Ian Gardner (Met head coach) about returning to the Archers for game time. Although I have spent the majority of the season back in Cardiff, I got the feeling of what Pontypool Park is all about and enjoyed every single moment. I have been fortunate enough to work with some incredibly talented coaches in that setup, who have helped me to understand and improve my game.”
A player with talent, Berry’s future promises to be interesting.
“My future ambitions in rugby will always be sky-high. After I have finished my master's degree at Cardiff Met, with the platform that BUCS Super Rugby provides, I would like to join a professional setup, wherever in the world. Rugby is something I have always known, and pursuing a career as a professional rugby player seems very fitting for me. Alongside this, I have a strong passion for coaching and would like to remain involved with the sport even when my playing days are over.”
For Berry, rugby remains the constant that shapes his ambitions. As he commits fully to the game, the journey ahead promises moments that could define a career.
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