Neath RFC are pleased to announce that 30 of last season’s squad will be back contesting places again in 2022/23.
Neath finished second to Bargoed in the Championship but beat the same opponents to lift the WRU Championship Cup at the Principality Stadium in April.
It is important that an element of continuity is maintained whist realising that there remains a lot of work to be done to lift Neath back to the glories of the past.
A challenging pre-season programme will see the Blacks take on two Premiership clubs – Ebbw Vale and Swansea -both at The Gnoll with a visit in between to Crymych.
Altogether 30 players remain on the roster for when training re-starts at the end of the month :-
BACKS – Ben Atkins, Jonny Bayliss, Aaron Bramwell, Ryan Evans, Macauley Griffiths, Nicky Griffiths, Elis Horgan, Iwan Johnes, Iestyn Morgan, Louis Rees, James Roberts, Steff Williams,
FORWARDS – Jon Barley, Jacob Blackmore, Dyfan Ceredig, Josh Clark, Sion Crocker, Zak Giannini, David Griggs, Alun Jones, Sam Langford, Gareth Lloyd, Owain Morgan, Chris Morris, Ross O’Connor, Jack Powell, Tim Ryan, Carwyn Sion, Morgan Thomas, Emyr Williams.
Coach Pat Horgan said, “This is not the final squad as we will shortly be announcing the names of several new recruits who are coming on board too.
He continued, “We would like to further strengthen one or two positions and we have room in the squad for players with the ambition and quality that Neath are looking for.”
Also back at The Gnoll with responsibility for improving fitness, strength and conditioning is Idris Hanmer. The first month of the new league season is going to be crucial and Pat Horgan said, “We need to get fitter and stronger and Idris is charged with driving up standards.”
Meanwhile, Jarrad Rees will commence his recuperation from a shoulder operation with Aberdare, Scott Hicks has finally bowed to a succession of knee injuries and has retired, Ciaran Comerford intends taking time out and David Langdon has linked with Pontypool. In addition, Matthew Jenkins who played on permit from Trebanos at the end of the season has decided to enrol with Swansea.
Neath RFC thank all the departing players for their efforts in the All Black jersey. It is always sad to see anyone go but things move on. There is always a lot of movement at this time of year but the leavers will always receive a good welcome at The Gnoll.
Watch this space for forthcoming signings…….