Trusting the Work: Catching Up with Bridgend College Rugby
Image Credit: Phil Roeder
“Finally learned the hard way that all good things take time, my friend.” In Highway Boy, Zach Bryan gives voice to patience, persistence, and quiet belief. That line is true because it speaks a simple truth: hope rewards those who keep showing up and doing the work. You must walk forward, even when no one is clapping. Throughout this conversation with Craig Warlow and Simon Norris, you will get insight into Bridgend College rugby’s pathway. It is a set-up that is all about finding the magic in detail, as they discuss the side’s promotion into the Colleges A League.
A rewarding year
Over the decades, many sensational people have called Bridgend home. Often, they shape their craft at iconic clubs. Furthermore, schools like Brynteg and Cynffig Comprehensive School have been graced by an abundance of talented individuals. 2005 marked the beginning of a cradle for the county’s rugby talent. Founded by Gareth Nicholas and Paul Adams, the Bridgend College would go on to help nurture young players on their journey. Players such as Harri Deaves, Owen Watkin, and Scott Baldwin all once called the establishment home. There have been many good years along the way, but this one feels different. As Warlow reflects, the reward comes not just from results but from the journey it took to get here.
“For me, it’s been particularly rewarding. I’ve been here a long time now, and we’ve seen the ups and we’ve seen the downs. When you’ve experienced the downs, you really appreciate the ups.”
They went on to talk about the side’s team spirit. Norris elaborated on how the team came together.
“The boys have really driven it themselves. Behind the scenes, they have become a really tight group, and that says a lot. When you get on together, you can make good things happen, and they did.”
When you have a team that gives everything for each other, strong performances are bound to come. Bridgend College’s season has proven that to be true.
Strong performances
To have a successful campaign, in any sport, consistency is vital. Maintaining a level of performance throughout a season can be defining. Bridgend College did just that. Norris discusses this season’s performance and highlights a game in Brecon.
“I actually think we played better before the final than in the final itself, in terms of cohesion. Finals are about big moments and handling pressure.
“One of the first times I realised we had a good group was away at Brecon. We were 26–5 down at half-time, but we came back and scored four unanswered tries in the second half.
“We gave them clear, simple instructions at half-time, and they listened and implemented them. That told us a lot. They did not panic. They executed.”
As stated before, it’s not just one performance that wins trophies; it’s doing it week in, week out.
Preparing for League A
After victory over Gower College secured promotion into League A, attention will turn to making an impact in a new league. Bridgend College will be taking on historic teams such as Llandovery College and Cardiff and Vale College. Warlow talks about preparing for the new league but says it’s business as usual and about a wider mission.
“Nothing much is going to change. We talk a lot about the one per cent gains. If you do those little things consistently, just a little better, you give yourself a chance to fulfil your potential.
“Our job is to help players become the best version of themselves. The working week will not change much, and neither will the way we go about our business.
“We are hoping the calibre of player coming through the doors continues to improve, but fundamentally we are about providing opportunities for local players at a local college, supporting their rugby dreams and the wider rugby community.”
It’s not just about results on the pitch, but growing off it.
The people
Across the nation, you will find many colleges helping nurture the next generation of the game, full of people ready to impart knowledge. Warlow and Norris talk about the people at Bridgend College.
“What makes the difference is the people.
“Players know what is good and what is bad. They know they need to get up early, eat well, pay attention in meetings, and concentrate during matches.
“What we try to do is remove barriers and support people through good times and bad. If, after 30 games in an elite environment, they have learned important life and rugby lessons, then we have done our job.”
Bridgend College will look to do big things. It will be fascinating to see what the future holds for them.
In conversation with Craig and Simon, the heart of the programme is clear. It’s the people, their values, and their shared purpose that define it.
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