Ystrad Rhondda RFC are delighted to announce the launch of a new Athletic team ahead of the 2026/27 season — an exciting development that strengthens the club’s structure and commitment to player progression.

The introduction of the Athletic side represents a significant step forward for the club, providing a clear pathway between youth rugby and the senior game, while also increasing depth and opportunity across the squad.

Coaching Team Confirmed

The club is pleased to confirm a strong coaching and management team to lead the Athletic side into its first season:

Craig Pearce — Head Coach

Dale Griffiths — Backs Coach

Lee Morris — Forwards Coach

Jac Wood Jones — Attack Coach

Stephen Maddocks — Team Manager

With a blend of experience, knowledge of the club, and a clear focus on development, the group is well placed to drive the team forward both on and off the field.

Strengthening the Club Pathway

Ystrad Rhondda has long been proud of its strong mini, junior and youth system, producing players who progress through the ranks into senior rugby.

The new Athletic team will play a crucial role in that journey, giving young players the opportunity to transition into the senior environment at the right pace, while continuing their development in a competitive setting.

It also ensures that players on the fringes of first team selection, or those returning from injury, have meaningful game time to maintain fitness and push for selection.

Head Coach Craig Pearce

“This is a really important step for the club. The Athletic team gives us the platform to develop players properly and prepare them for senior rugby.

We want to create an environment where players can learn, compete and express themselves, while understanding what it takes to represent Ystrad Rhondda.

One of the biggest benefits will also be the opportunity for younger players to train and play alongside experienced senior players who can help guide and develop them. Having those experienced voices around the group is massive for player development and will really help bring the younger boys through in the right way.

There’s a lot of talent coming through and this gives them a real opportunity.”

Dylan Jones on the New Addition

First Team Head Coach Dylan Jones also shared his excitement surrounding the return of second team rugby at the club:

“There seems to be a real revival in second team rugby and we want to be part of it.

Pea has put a huge amount of energy into the youth setup, often against the odds, and I know his passion and care for both the boys and the club gives him every chance of making this a success.

I’m sure everybody around the club and within the local community will join me in getting right behind the boys in the forthcoming season.

Once upon a time players like Car Facey, Liam Wiggins, Carl Williams, Gerwyn Davies, Bleddyn Davies and Gummy all played for Ystrad 2s either before breaking through or moving between the sides — and that pathway is something we want to build again.”

Looking Ahead to 2026/27

Preparations are already underway for the upcoming season, with further updates on fixtures and squad details to be confirmed in due course.
The club is excited about the opportunities this new addition will bring and is confident the Athletic team will play a key role in supporting both player development and first team success.

A Positive Step Forward

The launch of the Athletic team highlights Ystrad Rhondda RFC’s ambition to continue growing as a club — investing in its players, strengthening its structure and building for the future.

It is another important step in ensuring that Ystrad remains competitive while staying true to its core values of development, opportunity and community.