Women’s sevens squad named for Commonwealth Youth Games

Fourteen players are currently in the squad, including two non-travelling reserves (to be named at a later date): Gwen Crabb, Lleucu George, Courtney Greenway, Ffion Jones, Manon Johnes, Bethan Lewis, Caitlin Lewis, Maisie Mackenzie, Amy Morgan, Ellie Morgan, Lucy Packer, Kayleigh Powell, Imogen Shide, Lauren Smyth. 
 
“We have selected a strong and exciting squad that has a huge amount of potential for what I’m sure will be a very challenging tournament,” says coach Jonathan Hooper. “The squad have really impressed us in training over the past few months with their work ethic and professionalism. 

“Several of the girls have tasted success this year at Rosslyn Park and Urdd Sevens with their respective schools, whilst Gwen Crabb, Lucy Packer, Bethan Lewis and Kayleigh Powell have gained a lot of confidence and experience from their involvement with our senior women’s sevens squad.”

Hooper believes the team’s participation will hold the players in very good stead over the coming years, adding: “The Commonwealth Youth Games is such a fantastic opportunity for all of these girls to showcase their talent, proudly representing Wales at a prestigious sporting event at such an early and exciting time in their rugby development.” 

When Commonwealth Games Wales announced its 39 young athletes for Team Wales earlier this month, its Chef de Mission, Gerwyn Owen, said: “It’s particularly exciting that the women’s rugby sevens have been selected to represent Wales at the Youth Games this year. With the development of the sport in Wales over recent years it looks promising that the Welsh side will do well in the Bahamas.”

The Commonwealth Youth Games will take place between 18-23 July. Along with women’s rugby sevens there will be swimming, athletics, boxing, judo and tennis.