Paul joined Ystrad from Penygraig RFC. He became an influential leader and captain of a young side in the old Division 1 which contained the likes of a young Nathan Hughes, Dylan Jones, Chris Hanly and Carl Facey. His leadership proved inspirational to a number of young players who followed the standards he set. The loose head prop never took a backwards step, and for 80 minutes, opposition teams new they were in for a tough afternoon.