Category: Mini and Junior News

Last Saturday the Under 12s made it a clean sweep of cup wins for the Quins Juniors in the Carmarthenshire Cup when they visited Llandovery and won the game 12 pts to nil with two tries for Jac Johnson and a conversion for Macs Hastings sealing a game that was a real treat to watch.

The draws for the next round have been made and our opponents across the age groups are as follows:

Under 12

Penybanc v Quins

Under 13

Quins v Llandeilo

Under 14

Newcastle Emlyn v Quins

Under 15

Quins v Llandovery or Brynamman

Under 16

Quins v Carmarthen Athletic.

All games are to be played on or before 28th November.

In other news District Schools rugby is back this Friday 12th November with the Under 15’s and Under 11s having games respectively. The Quins are well represented with 13 players in Carmarthenshire under 15 squad and 1 in the Pembrokeshire squad and for the Under 11s we have 1 in the Llanelli and District and 2 in Carmarthen and District. This just goes to show that the Quins continues to develop the next generation.

Within the age groups some teams are looking for players including the Under 10s and Under 11’s so if you live in the Carmarthen or surrounding area then please feel free to contact us to talk about opportunities for your son or daughter even if they have never played before or want to return to the game.

Fixtures for this weekend see our under 7’s and 8’s heading to Nantgaredig, Under 9’s to Laugharne, Under 11’s to Nantgaredig, Under 12s playing Llandeilo tonight under lights, under 13’s away to Llandeilo and the 14s home to Furnace. At time of publishing the 15s and 16s are looking for fixtures after having cancellations.

Following a postponement due to Covid our Under 12’s are also heading to Llandovery this Saturday where they will take on their counterparts in the rearranged Carmarthenshire Cup Preliminary Round and as an added bonus to all the young players it will be a curtain raiser for the seniors game.

The Quins will head to Church Bank knowing that this will be another tough test against a Llandovery side that never knows when to give up. Games between the  two sides over the age groups have always been close with Llandovery generally emerging victorious.

The two sides are yet to meet in the 15 a side format but did have a friendly game of 10 a side earlier this year with Llandovery scoring two late tries to tie the game three tries all.

It is testament to both teams that the coaches have nurtured a tight squad that will play for each other as well as the club. This coming Saturday will be no different.

The Quins side has prepared well over the weeks with some tough games against Felinfoel and Burry Port with a 26 pts to 7 victory against Felinfoel and a 7 all draw against Burry Port. Special mention has to be made to Under 16s Coach (former Welsh International) Deiniol Jones and Giles Thomas (Carmarthen Quins all time record points scorer) who have given their time to give the Quins some specific pointers on key areas of the game. The players soaked up all the hints and tips and will be keen to try it out on Saturday.

With a final squad of 22 available with one missing out the young Quins will be keen to put in a performance for Dan who won’t be there.

Captain for the game  tomorrow will be Caleb Morris and we caught up with him after training.

What position do you play? Number 8

What are you looking forward to most on Saturday? Most looking forward to going to Llandovery and playing my first cup game. We’d all like to win but I’d like to go and play well as a team and show how good we are. I’m also really pleased that Neil picked me to be captain for our first cup game because it means a lot.

What is it like to be part of the Quins? I haven’t been part of the Quins family for long, I joined in May this year. As soon as I came I was made to feel so welcome by everyone and I’ve got some great friends here.

What is your favourite rugby memory? My first game for the Quins we played against Whitland in a touch rugby game because of Covid. As Whitland were passing the ball I had a lovely interception, did some lovely footwork and scored my first try.

Who is your favourite rugby player at the moment?  It has to be Taulupe Faletau because he plays the same position as me. He has a great work ethic on the field, great foot work, he carries the ball well and he’s always busy tackling. He’s someone I’d like to be like.

What are your future hopes for yourself in rugby?  I’d like to definitely reach the next level of rugby and either play for my favourite team the Scarlets or my Grampy’s favourite team Cardiff. Hopefully, I’ll be good enough to play for Wales and even get a Lions cap too.

Caleb is certainly one of the characters of the squad but like the rest of the squad represents the Quins with courtesy and does nothing less than his very best.

Whilst the fixture is a cup tie the coach has ensured that the day is a fun day and a bus has been organised for the team and parents and all those travelling on the bus have to dress in fancy dress following the game in a costume that starts with the first letter of their name. So if you are in Llandovery on Saturday don’t be alarmed if you think your eyes are playing tricks on you, they aren’t and people are dressed up!

With rugby now back in full swing the club is absolutely delighted to learn that several of our under 11’s players have been selected for Carmarthen and District Schools and Llanelli and District Schools.

A smaller number of players went for the trials this year due to the obvious covid pandemic but through grit and determination the Quins continues to have representation in the squads.

In the Llanelli and District Squad Rhys Greenfield has been successful. For the Carmarthen and District Schools squad Charlie Jones, Henry Davies, Ifan Harding and Aidan Saer have been successful and only narrowly missing out after a great trial were Lexi Jones, Alfie Lewis and Cian Shore.

The Club is extremely of your efforts and we wish you all the best for the upcoming games.

This Sunday just gone saw the return of cup action for our junior sides. With all bar the under 12s in Cup Action.

The Under 13s had been drawn against town rivals Carmarthen Athletic with the game played at Abergwili. In a hard fought encounter the crowd was kept entertained by a high standard of rugby with the result unknown until the final whistle when the Quins ran out winners 1o pts to 5. What was pleasing was the squad numbers and the future of rugby in Carmarthen is extremely secure.

The under 14s were also home to a spirited Bynea side but it was the Quins who progressed through to the next round courtesy of a 52pts to nil victory that pleases players, coaches and supporters.

The Under 15s welcome Kidwelly to Parc Y Deri Abergwili and in a great game the Quins took the spoils 38pts to nil.

Finally our Under 16s travelled to Maes Y Gwendraeth to face a big Tumble side where there was very little to split the sides and a composed performance from the Quins saw them edge the contest 17 pts to 14. There was a nasty injury five minutes in that has resulted in Elis Price breaking his collar bone that will see him out for some time. All at the club would like to wish Elis a speedy recovery.

We have to wait a couple of weeks for the Under 12s to play their rearranged cup tie away to Llandovery which will be played as a curtain raiser for the senior game on Saturday 6th November. Kick off for the under 12s is 11.30am. In preparation for their cup tie the Quins travelled to Burry Port for a hastily arranged game and it was the perfect test for the Quins. In a game that ebbed and flowed with some resolute defence from both sides the result was a 7 all draw which was a far reflection for both sides. Interesting to note that the well drilled Burry Port side is coached by former Quins players Ian Jones and Darren Daniel.

Our under 9s also enjoyed a trip out to Lampeter over the weekend and played in a really entertaining game that saw smiles all round.

Congratulations to all teams that played over the weekend and Good Luck to the Under 12s when they take the field next for their cup game.

With the return of rugby being welcomed by so many people there are exciting time for our Junior Teams from Under 12’s up to Under 16s as they look forward to their first Carmarthenshire GMG Cup matches on 24th October.

Preparations on the field have continued as best as is possible with Covid still being around and affecting some age groups and their players but one thing that can be sure each age group will be at their very best when they take the field in search of some silverware for the Quins. Kick off times are to be confirmed and will be published in due course but if any Quins Supporter requires a Sunday rugby fix then the preliminary round fixtures are as follows:

Under 12s

Away to Llandovery

Under 13s

Home to Carmarthen Athletic

Under 14s

Home to Bynea

Under 15s

Home to Kidwelly

Under 16s

Away to Tumble

After a long 18 months or so we know that each of the age groups would welcome any additional support on these match days. Come along and follow the Future Mighty Quins!!

We have another opportunity to showcase the future of rugby at the club.

The Quins ethos of development from a young age has again paid off for four of our dedicated Under 16 players. Back in September they put their names forward for trials for the Boys Club of Wales Rugby Team and at the start of the process there were 170 players from across Wales invited to trial.

Fast forward to last weekend and 7 of our current Under 16s were invited to the final trial of 45 players. Unfortunately due to injury only 4 were able to attend. After a hard afternoon pressing their rugby case by demonstrating skills they’d learned via the Quins mini and junior section, news came out that the four  players were successful and made the final squad of 25.

We caught up with the successful players to hear about their rugby journey to date.

Name: Elis Price

Position: Fly Half

When did you start playing rugby? And up until now who have you played for? Started with the Quins under 7’s and moved up the age groups. I have also played for Carmarthen and District Schools at Under 11’s and Under 15’s.

What are you future hopes within rugby? I hope to one day put on the Quins first XV jersey and play in the park and to wear the red shirt and represent Wales.

Who are you rugby idols? Dan Carter

What is the best piece of rugby advice you have been given and who gave it to you? Keep your routines all the same every match day and will help with consistency – from Leigh Halfpenny

Outside of rugby what are your interests and your hopes? I like to go for a round of golf if I have time, and I hope to keep playing my rugby local while playing for the Carmarthen Quins.

Name: Owain Hari Davies

Position: Full Back

When did you start playing rugby? And up until now who have you played for? I started at 8 years old playing for the Quins under 9s and have only played for them as a club side but I have played for Carmarthen and District Schools.

What are you future hopes within rugby? I would love to play professionally but my ultimate dream is to play for Wales.

Who are you rugby idols? Beauden Barrett of New Zealand and Shane Williams for their speed and skill.

What is the best piece of rugby advice you have been given and who gave it to you? As my dad always says “Whatever you do in life, give it 100%”

Outside of rugby what are your interests and your hopes? Athletics sprinting for Carmarthen Harriers and playing football for Carmarthen Stars. My hopes are to go to University and have a future in sport.

Name: Elis Thomas

Position: Centre

When did you start playing rugby? And up until now who have you played for? Started playing for the Quins at Under 9s and I have represented Carmarthen and District Schools at Under 11’s and Under 15’s

What are you future hopes within rugby?  To make it as far as I possibly can in rugby. Playing professionally is the ultimate goal.

Who are you rugby idols? Lukhanyo Am because I just love the way he plays.

What is the best piece of rugby advice you have been given and who gave it to you? If you work hard enough you will get whatever you want from Deiniol Jones (current Under 16’s coach and former Quins player and Welsh International)

Outside of rugby what are your interests and your hopes?  Football – playing and watching but watching all sport really. Hopes are to progress to Senior Club rugby with the Quins and hopefully the Scarlets.

Name: Gruff Rhys Williams

Position: Number 8

When did you start playing rugby? And up until now who have you played for? Started with Nantgaredig at Under 8’s but as they didn’t have enough players I moved to the Quins at Under 9’s where I have played ever since. I have been captain of the team now for a few years and was very proud when we won the Scarlets district cup when it was last held 2 years ago. I have also represented Carmarthen and District Schools at Under 11’s and for two seasons at Under 15’s.

What are you future hopes within rugby? I hope to make a career as a professional rugby player and my ultimate goal is to be a Lion.

Who are you rugby idols? Alun Wyn Jones from Wales and David Pocock the Australian player – I enjoy watching them play and I hope to be as good as them one day. I also admire Sam Warburton and I was lucky enough when I was 10 years old to be picked as a mascot for Wales v South Africa and I got to meet him and Alun Wyn Jones and lots of other Welsh Players.

What is the best piece of rugby advice you have been given and who gave it to you? My da always gives me lots of advice and he been coaching with the Quins for a few years along with Deiniol Jones, Ceri Davies, John Dunn and Meurig Rees. They always encourage me to do my best and aim high.

Outside of rugby what are your interests and your hopes? I live on a farm and enjoy farming and outdoor life. I also enjoy hunting and shooting days.

Congratulations to you all boys your hard work and dedication has paid off. We look forward to your progress with the Boys Club of Wales in an exciting season. Special mention also to Oliver Hawke, Dylan Davies and Dylan Rowe who would have been at the trial had it not been for injury. The club is proud of you and everyone else who is continuing their rugby journey via our thriving mini and junior section.

Below is a picture of our successful players.

With rugby now back with a bang it is a delight for the club to hear and see a thriving mini and junior section getting back to what they love doing. With sides from Under 7’s to Under 16’s  the Quins future is certainly bright. There are several players in the district sides of Carmarthenshire Schools and Mynydd Mawr schools from our Under 15’s and we have several players going to their last trial for the Boys Club of Wales this coming Sunday 3rd October it is testament to the coaches across the age group of the work they do in developing players.

We caught up with one coach and current Vice Chair of the Mini and Junior Section and got to know more about him

Here is what Grant Wrigglesworth had to say

“I’m from a family of athletes so naturally from a young age i that’s where my sporting life started. I joined Llangennech RFC from a young age and immediately became obsessed with the sport and despite being a decent 100 and 200m sprinter, devoted my energies to rugby.”

“I was fortunate enough to play for Llangennech RFC, Scarlets development (equivalent of the academy now I guess) Coleg Sir Gar, Wales Colleges in 15’s and 7’s and Neath under 20’s. “

“After I stopped playing I devoted my competitive interests into bodybuilding, become an amateur Mr. Wales Champion in 2006 and coached some world champion power lifters and amateur bodybuilders.”

“My vocation also sees me involved in developing and leading some elite teams at a national level, so I have been involved in working as part of a team for as long as I can remember on a professional and volunteer basis! !

“I have been coaching rugby since 1998 and have coached mostly age grade but some senior teams with pre-season fitness training as I am also a gym instructor and PTI.”

“My career saw me move from my home town of Llanelli to Carmarthen, where I settled in 2003. When my sons showed an interest in playing rugby, I decided to be part of the Quins set up with some familial links and just really liked the set up and was blown away by the army of family volunteers who worked so hard for the junior section, which humbled me significantly.”

“I was approached to coach quite soon and jumped at the chance to try and give something back to a sport that built the foundation of who I am to this day and am motivated to improve the life’s, happiness and opportunities of children within the area, which I find extremely rewarding.”

“I have a demanding day job but love being a coach of the Under 15’s and Vice Chair of the junior section of such a prestigious and successful Club.  It’s extremely rewarding to give something back and to build, nurture and progress individuals and a young team collective toward their rugby goals. “

“The obvious highlight for me so far was my team winning the Carmarthenshire and Scarlets cup at their first attempt at when they were Under 13’s. “

“From my coaching perspective the long term goal for Chris, Jonathan, Geraint, Adrian and myself had always been to nurture the talent we have to continue to love and play the sport into adulthood and get as many of our team into the youth squad and ultimately the Senior side. “

Fixture News

This weekend the mini and junior section kick off their fixtures on Friday night when teh Under 16s host Newcastle Emlyn for a 7pm kick off under floodlights at the park. Coached by a former Quins and Welsh International Deiniol Jones, former Quins back row forward Ceri Davies and Meurig Rees who played for Pontyberem the young guns will be looking to impress and give a good performance on the Park. It goes without saying that all are welcome to watch the game and all support will be gratefully received. The club is so grateful to see another two former players giving something back to the club

The rest of the sections look forward to their games on Sunday and the fixtures can be found below:

Across the age groups there are almost 200 registered players with the Quins but some age groups are on the lookout for new recruits and what better time to join than just before the Welsh Autumn Internationals when we hope the national side can capture children’s imagination and inspire them to pick up the ball. If you have a child interested in joining the club then please email cqrfcsocialmedia@gmail.com and we will pass on your details to the correct coach.

We have included some photos below from some of our age groups and we would welcome you to join us.

As the world slowly moves out of varying restrictions we are delighted that our mini and junior teams are all back training and eager to take the field. We currently have over 150 players registered from Under 7’s to Under 16’s but some of our age groups do have some space to welcome new players.

With qualified coaches at all age groups the children are welcomed to a safe environment where they can learn new skills, meet new friends and more importantly improve both their physical health and mental health. At the Quins we understand that the last 15 months or so have been tough on everyone but particularly our children many of who are in their formative years.

We are able to provide these player with first class training facilities at our Abergwili base that contains four purpose measured mini fields for our Under 7’s to Under 11’s and two full size pitches and training area for the older age groups. We also have recently refurbished changing rooms and a pavilion that includes a kitchen which we use for post match food and refreshments when it is safe to do so.

The various age groups have been training now for several weeks and a few of our mini teams have taken the field representing the Quins in friendly touch rugby fixtures as we await the advice and guidance on return to contact which is likely to be available some time next month. The biggest plus for coaches, managers and parents alike has been the smiles on the children’s faces playing the game they love and have missed for so long.

As mentioned previously we have spaces at some age groups for new players. If you have a child who would like to try rugby then please email us on cqrfrcsocialmedia@gmail.com and we can point you in the right direction to the relevant age group.

Within our coaching set up are individuals who have played for Wales themselves and former Quins 1st XV players who are now passing on their experiences to potential future Quins 1st XV players and indeed possible future Welsh internationals. If you are a parent whose child is currently playing and you think you would like to become more involved then the club is happy to assist you in undertaking the relevant rugby coaching qualifications.

There are also several players who have come through our ranks and gone to play age grade international rugby and secure professional rugby contracts with our regions in Wales and beyond.

We look forward to hearing from you to come along and join the Quins family.