Community Newsletter

In this issue, we’re shining a light on some inspiring developments. You’ll hear about our successful Apprenticeship Programme, including an insightful interview with one of our current apprentices Bonnie Miles, who shares her experience and ambitions within the game. We also take a trip to Machen RFC for a club spotlight, celebrating their successful grant application that helped fund a brand-new roof, weatherproofing their clubhouse for generations to come.

So, whether you’re reading from the clubhouse, your kitchen table, or the touchline with a flask of coffee in hand, we’re delighted to have you with us once again.

We look forward to staying connected as we continue to celebrate the strength, commitment, and passion that define community rugby in Wales.

The Welsh Rugby Union’s apprenticeship programme is entering its eleventh year with remarkable momentum, thanks in large part to a transformative partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University introduced in early 2024.

This collaboration has elevated the programme further, offering apprentices not only hands‑on experience within the community game but also a structured academic pathway that is proving genuinely life‑changing.

A central feature of the programme is the Level 4 Foundation Certificate in Sport Management & Development. Since its launch, three apprentice cohorts have successfully completed the qualification, with an impressive 60% progressing into higher education following their year with the WRU.

The qualification is designed to work in harmony with the apprentices’ day‑to‑day roles, blending practical delivery with academic development and encouraging creativity across both spheres.

Carl Scales, WRU Rugby Development Apprenticeship Manager, says, “We are extremely proud of the partnership we have developed with Cardiff Met.

“It’s unique in the country, there’s no other programme like it, we offer a fantastic qualification, allied with real life experiences.

“Crucially, they also become Cardiff Met students from day one, gaining full access to the same resources and support services enjoyed by those studying full‑time degrees.”

The programme is equally rich in practical experience, and for Carl who runs the scheme there is no shortage of memorable moments. “It’s a roller-coaster!” adds Carl, “our apprentices are trusted with leading many prestigious programmes and events throughout the year, from staging matches at Principality Stadium and events at Buckingham Palace, to delivering rugby events in schools and at community clubs across the length and breadth of Wales.”

“A real highlight is witnessing an apprentice finding their path. Seeing young, not so confident candidates turn into great employees, great people ready to take on the rigours of work and life, watching their journeys from afar is very satisfying.”

Over the years, the programme has even welcomed future stars, including Wales captain Dewi Lake and Wales internationals Kelsey Jones and Kayleigh Powell.

Applications for the 2026/27 programme open in June/July, with a two‑day selection process ahead of a September start.

For those keen to stay informed, an expression of interest form is already available here.

Bonnie Miles joined the WRU apprenticeship programme five months ago, and in that short time, she’s already discovered new confidence, purpose, and a passion for the community game.

Inspired by a friend who completed the programme, Bonnie applied hoping to challenge herself and make a meaningful impact. She says the support from WRU development staff has been life‑changing, helping her grow both professionally and personally.

One of her standout moments so far? Being involved in the Road to Principality, where she saw first‑hand how rugby brings communities together and boosts confidence in people of all ages.

The apprenticeship has also shaped her future. Before joining, Bonnie wasn’t sure what path to take; now, she’s discovered new career routes and hopes to build a long‑term future within the WRU.

Her message to anyone thinking of applying next year: go for it. The programme isn’t just about gaining qualifications, it’s a journey of support, self-belief, and real community impact.

Machen RFC has taken an important step toward securing its long‑term future after successfully obtaining funding for a brand‑new clubhouse roof, followed by additional grants to install solar panels and battery storage. These upgrades are expected to significantly cut energy costs and ensure the clubhouse remains a safe, sustainable space for decades to come.

For many in the village, Machen RFC is more than a rugby club, it’s a community cornerstone with 150 years of history. Club Secretary Peter Vaughan describes the clubhouse as “a shared home,” used by players of all ages, families, volunteers, and supporters.

The roof and solar projects mark one of the club’s biggest achievements in recent years, coming at a time when the old roof had reached the end of its lifespan. Thanks to the dedication of Club Treasurer Becci Jones, Machen RFC’s first female committee member in 150 years, the club secured crucial support from partners, sponsors, volunteers and match funding by Sport Wales to make the project possible.

Since completion, the improved clubhouse has hosted dinners, awards, fundraisers, meetings, and community events, and has even served as a warm hub during the winter.

Chairman Paul Crowley says the developments reflect the club’s spirit: “We’re a family here. Everyone’s welcome.” With future improvements already being explored, Machen RFC is proud to continue growing as a true community hub.

According to his parents, Janine and Andrew, “Rugby is Luca Morillo’s world.”

Although Luca, who’s from Castlemorris in Pembrokeshire, was born 15 weeks early and lives with cerebral palsy and learning difficulties, he lives and breathes the world of rugby.

He fell in love with the sport while watching his father play for Fishguard, and Luca is now the mascot for the Pembrokeshire Vikings mixed-ability team.

In a match between the Vikings and Fishguard last March, 12-year-old Luca came onto the field in his wheelchair – and scored a try that was celebrated by both teams.

Luca’s smile further broadened recently when he received an invitation from the Welsh Rugby Union to watch the national squad train in the Vale of Glamorgan.

A Scarlets fan when it comes to rugby, Tottenham Hotspur are Luca’s favourite football team, and he discovered that Steve Tandy also supports Spurs – not West Ham like Dewi Lake!

The highlight of the day for Luca was meeting Blair Murray and Tom Rogers, who presented him with a Wales jersey signed by all members of the current Wales squad.

A very special day, for a very special young man from Pembrokeshire.

Watch Luca’s story here.

Since partnering with the WRU in 2020, Macron’s WRU Community Scheme has transformed the way clubs across Wales access high‑quality playing kit. What began with £6 million worth of kit support has now evolved into an incredible Buy One, Get One Free offer, helping clubs stretch budgets further than ever.

So far, 126 organisations have benefitted from the scheme, including 76 rugby clubs, 27 schools and colleges, and multiple inclusion teams. Last year alone saw 661 orders placed which shows just how much our Welsh rugby community relies on this support.

Has your club taken up the offer with Macron? Whether you’re looking to refresh your senior kit, support your youth and girls’ sections, or take advantage of equipment bundles, the Macron WRU scheme offers an affordable, reliable route to high‑performance gear.

Clubs are encouraged to get in touch, explore the offer, and make the most of this continued investment in Welsh grassroots rugby.

Contacts:
Joe Davies – Relationshipmanager@macronstore.co.uk
Matt Harris – Matt@macronstoreebbwvale.co.uk

We are delighted to share that two members of our Welsh rugby community have been nominated at the Women’s Awards Wales 2026.

Angharad Collins, WRU’s very own Head of Club Development, has been nominated and named as a finalist for the Changemaker Award. This recognition reflects her outstanding leadership, dedication to the sustainability of community clubs, celebrating volunteers and communities, and creating new pathways for equality and inclusion.

In addition, Angie Prangle, a valued volunteer at Crosskeys RFC, has been nominated for Volunteer of the Year. Whilst Angie, didn’t make the final, it’s a fantastic achievement to have been nominated! Angie’s tireless energy and unwavering support for her club and local community in the face of devastating flooding and personal challenges embody the very best of grassroots rugby.

The Women’s Awards Wales ceremony will take place on 3rd March at the Senedd, in celebration of International Women’s Day.

Congratulating both Angharad and Angie on these well‑deserved achievements!

Former rugby international turned record- breaking polar athlete Richard Parks has launched Beyond the Breakdown, a new podcast series linking Welsh rugby greats with the local clubs that made them, starting with Shane Williams and Amman United in the first episode, released earlier this month.

After years spent conquering the world’s most extreme environments – and fresh from guiding actor Will Smith to the South Pole for Disney+ series Pole to Pole – Richard Parks is returning to Welsh rugby to ask what the future holds for local clubs and the communities they represent.

“These clubs are the heart and soul of Welsh rugby and mean so much to fans.” says, Parks. “I wanted to help tell the stories of the people who keep these clubs alive, often against the odds. Every legend I’ve interviewed showed an enormous sense of pride and loyalty towards the clubs they owe their careers to. It’s been a privilege to hear the stories they’ve shared with us.”

Click here to listen to the podcast series now.

Since launching the new community club investment model last year, many community clubs have already started to feel the benefits of aligning on-field and off-field priorities.  Clubs have reported they are attracting more volunteers with diverse skills-sets, and Directors are feeling more confident and prepared that they have everything in place to run modern, welcoming and successful club houses and teams.

Introducing the off‑field accreditation levels has empowered clubs to showcase the brilliance and potential of our community rugby hubs to wider audiences. In turn this is having a direct impact, increasing interest from commercial sponsors, and greater success in grant applications. Together we have achieved our highest level of additional funding to date, with an incredible £2.8 million secured since July 2025. This support spans the full spectrum of opportunities, from energy‑saving grants, Sport Wales Be Active funding, wind farm and National Lottery funding, to grants accessed through the Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust, amongst others.

To support clubs even further, the Club Development team will soon be sending a handy ‘how‑to’ guide to every community club ahead of the investment model accreditation submission deadlines.

The deadline for submissions is fast approaching, and there are still 38 clubs across Wales yet to make contact with our Club Business Officers to begin preparing their accreditation.

All club secretaries have been sent the latest information. If you have any questions, or if you feel you can support your club with its submission, please reach out to your club committee.

The WRU’s Pass it Back campaign is a reminder that Welsh rugby is truly a game powered by its community.

All money raised through international matches, events, and merchandise is reinvested directly back into the game across Wales, supporting clubs, coaches, volunteers, referees, and players at every level. When you support Welsh rugby, you’re helping to grow the game in your own community, funding the programmes, people, and opportunities that keep our sport thriving.

Together, we pass it back, so the whole game moves forward.