Pooler strengthen backs with the signing of Wales Sevens prospect, Jay Jones

Pontypool RFC is pleased to announce the signing of Jay Jones, who arrives at the club from the Wales International Sevens team ahead of the 2021-2022 season.

The 21-year-old enjoyed a solid run as a core member of the Wales Sevens squad after graduating from the Wales Sevens U18s team and scored some sensational tries following his initial debut at the 2017 the World Series event in Dubai.

Jones’ progression was unfortunately curtailed following the closure of the Wales Sevens team as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but with the opportunity to commence the next chapter of his career, Jones is looking forward to his time with Pooler.

On joining the club, Jones said: “After enjoying several seasons playing on the Wales Sevens circuit, I’m really looking forward to playing club rugby again and I couldn’t think of anywhere better than Pontypool RFC to resume my fifteens career.

“I’ve been really impressed with the professionalism and the desire for the club to finally get back to where it belongs in the Premiership and I am looking forward to hopefully playing my part in making that happen over the next couple of seasons.

“Seeing how Lloyd Lewis has progressed at the club since his time with the Sevens and the opportunity to play alongside him and Ethan Davies once again played a big role in my decision to join Pooler. The club has a great set up and I am really looking forward to the new season.”

Jones’ signing further signifies the ambitions of Pontypool RFC, despite the decision by the Welsh Rugby Union to remove promotion to the Premiership for the 2021-2022 season. Backs coach, Tom Hancock, is looking forward to working with his new recruit.

“Jay is a really exciting prospect and is a solid acquisition by the club,” said Hancock. “Jay’s progression with Wales Sevens was very impressive and I’m really excited to see what he can do for Pooler.

“Considering Jay is still only twenty-one, he has a lot of potential to grow even further as a player. His performances with Wales Sevens demonstrates he has so much raw talent and we are really optimistic for how his contributions will help us continue to improve our performances at key moments throughout the season.”