PONTYPOOL, South Wales, 21st June 2017 – Pontypool RFC is delighted to announce that Gareth Rusby-Davies has been appointed as the club’s new team manager after calling time on a remarkable playing career.
Rusby-Davies assumes the role after playing an unforgettable part in Pooler’s back row over the past two years, whereby his thunderous performances culminated in him receiving the Pontypool RFC Supporters’ Player of the Season award following last season’s WRU National Championship title triumph.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Gareth to the role of team manager in what I know will be a hugely popular appointment to everybody associated with the club,” said Pontypool RFC head coach, Leighton Jones.
“Gareth embodies everything that Pontypool RFC stands for. His commitment and hunger on the field has earnt him the respect of his teammates and his passion and respect for the club resonates with our supporters in a very positive way.
“We have gained a team manager who is trustworthy, dependable and who fully buys in to the culture we have worked hard to establish this past couple of seasons.
“Every season, we are improving in every facet of the club’s operations and I have no doubt that Gareth’s introduction will only expand this positive development for many seasons to come.”
Since arriving from Ebbw Vale RFC in 2015, Rusby-Davies has made a tremendous contribution to the club through his fearlessness on the field and his dedication to supporting the club from the sidelines.
It was during his most recent spell recovering from injury that Rusby-Davies volunteered to perform team support duties throughout a crucial spell of matches for the club.
The high work ethic and commitment he displayed was enough for Pooler’s head coach to plump for the man affectionately known as ‘Frills’ to fill the role that lay vacant since January.
“It is an incredible honour and privilege to become team manager for a club that holds such a special place in my heart,” said Rusby-Davies.
“I have really enjoyed every moment of my playing career, but when Leighton approached me about this new opportunity, I knew that it was the right time for me to take the next step in my rugby journey and I cannot wait to get started.
“It is an incredibly exciting time to be involved with Pontypool RFC and I guarantee that I will bring the same level of energy and excitement that I demonstrated on the field into my professional activities off it.
“I wish to thank my teammates, coaches, the Pooler Army and especially my family for all the support they have offered me in my playing days and I hope to do them just as proud in this new role.”
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Pontypool RFC, Pontypool Park, Pontypool, South Wales, NP4 8AT
