Bettws
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Bettws
B
RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB
ettws RFC is a fine example of the important role that a club can
play in their local community and have been enjoying a fantastic
season this time around. Rugby Club Magazine recently caught up with
their Team Manager Ryan Draper to find out more about the good work
that has been carried out at the club in recent times.
RC: How long have you been involved and what first attracted
you to the club?
RD: I’ve been involved in the club since I was fifteen. All my
school friends played for a youth team which was coached by
Martin Collett so I would play a few games for them. Bettws
RFC has always been a family club and they used to have many
social events and parties etc. Even when players would play
for other clubs, they would always go back to Bettws RFC after
games to socialise with their mates and families. I currently
play for the team as Prop (probably player of the year so far!)
RC: What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of
your role?
RD: The club hit rock bottom a few years ago and without a
few key gentlemen, Kirk Baldwin, Anthony Matthews and
Andy Taylor the club would have folded. I’ve always tried
to help out and whilst in Amsterdam on our Rugby tour was
asked to become team manager.
Gathering all the information and trying to get the club back
on its feet has been the most challenging aspect for myself. The
most rewarding aspect for me is going into the clubhouse after
the game, seeing all the players with their families enjoying a
positive atmosphere. Seeing the boys enjoying their rugby as
well is very rewarding.
RC: How’s the general mood down at the club at the moment?
RD: The general mood is amazing at the club at present. Now
we are stable behind the scenes, the introduction of Head
Coach Mikey Thomas, Backs coach Callum Rowland and
forwards coach Martin Williams means training sessions are
fun but also very informative. The mood has followed onto the
pitch with positive results.
RC: How would you say the year has gone for the club so far?
RD: The year has been very successful so far with us still
undefeated this season with nine wins from nine with seven
bonus points for 4+ tries in a match. We enjoyed a little run in
the WRU Bowl as well before losing to higher opposition but
still have a chance at the Newport and District Plate.
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