Ystrad Rhondda RFC


Ystrad Rhondda Rugby Football Club is a Welsh rugby union team based in Ystrad in the Rhondda Valley. The club was founded in 1884. Ystrad Rhondda RFC plays in the Welsh Rugby Union WRU Admiral Premiership.

History

Foundation and Early Years

The club was founded in 1884 and has become one of the leading Rhondda Valley and Mid District clubs. The earliest recorded match between Ystrad Rhondda and Pontypridd RFC took place on 24th September 1885, at Ystrad Rhondda, with Pontypridd winning by a goal, a try, and two touches down to nil.
Willie Llewellyn began his rugby career at Ystrad Rhondda before moving to other clubs. He played for Wales and was part of the team that defeated the All Blacks in 1905.

Modern Era

is described as a product of Ystrad Rhondda RFC who returned to coach the club after his playing career. He toured with the British & Irish Lions in 1989.
Another product of the club is Alex Webber, who was on the World Sevens circuit with Wales between 2012-15. After a period with Pontypridd RFC where he made 120 appearances and scored 69 tries, Webber returned to Ystrad as player-coach and has made a significant impact both on and off the field.

Ground

The club plays at Gelligaled Park. First laid out in the 1920s, the space includes playing fields for rugby and cricket, a children's play area, a skatepark and bowling green.

Current squad and structure

The club currently runs a second XV plus two youth teams which attract talent from across the valley. They also have an excellent mini and junior section. The club has junior teams, a youth side and a second XV.
Notable long-serving players include Nathan Hughes, who played 420 times for Ystrad and retired at the end of the 2023-24 season after being with the club since he was 18. Prolific outside-half Rhys Truelove has appeared in excess of 250 times and scored more than 1,000 points for the club.

Honours

Domestic

Notable players