Neath RFC have named back row forward Ben Williams as club captain for season 2024/25.
Ben, who joined Neath at the start of last season, impressed everyone with his tireless performances when he set a terrific example to his team-mates and he succeeds Ryan Evans who has moved on to a coaching role alongside prop Tim Ryan.
Like many Neath players before him, Ben hails from the Swansea Valley, is a product of Cwmtawe school and has played at different levels for Vardre, Ystradgynlais and Ystalyfera.
He wears his heart on his sleeve and is looking forward to the challenge of leading Neath in the Premiership and says, “It is such a massive honour and I will give it my best and expect the same from everybody. I am looking forward to leading into action what is a great bunch of boys.”
“I’d like to thank Tim and Ryan for having confidence in me and for what they have done for me already. They want us to play a non-stop, relentless type of game which suits me down to the ground,” said the self-employed carpenter.
“Ryan will be a hard act to follow but my previous captaincy experience will hold me in good stead – captaining Neath is a different level again and I am so proud.
“I cannot rest on my laurels as Tim has told me being captain does not mean I play every game. There is plenty of established competition in the back row with Gethin Tremlett and Casey Williams already pushing hard.
“But that is something I am happy with and hopefully we can all kick each other on which will benefit the team as a whole.
“There’s a real buzz about training at The Gnoll. The boys are working hard and pushing each other and new boys are slotting in very well.
“Training attendances have been the best I’ve seen – and loads of supporters are watching too which shows the rugby interest in Neath.
“There is a real sense of anticipation and excitement now as we approach the first warm-up games when we will give everyone a chance to stake a claim.
“Facilities and back-up for players are second to none at Neath RFC and, while we are realistic as to our prospects, we aim to have a successful season.
“We will accept no excuses and it is an exciting time for us.”
Coach Tim Ryan said, “All good teams have good leaders and in Ben we certainly have that. He leaves nothing out there and I am certain he will do us proud as we push on this season.” MP
PRE-SEASON FIXTURES
Neath RFC’s season starts next Friday when the Blacks host Championship newcomers Cambrian Welfare at The Gnoll (kick off 7.15pm) before moving on to the following Thursday (August 22) against Swansea at home and then Talywain on Friday, August 30.
SEASON TICKETS
Meanwhile, Season Tickets are selling fast and can be purchased on-line or at the Clubhouse in person on Thursday evenings from 6.30pm.
Click here to order your tickets online:
https://neathrfc.com/2024-25-premiership-season-ticket-sales/