UWTSD Triumphs as BUCS Men’s Rugby Western Conference Shield Champions.

14 March 2024

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) Men’s Rugby Team secured a thrilling victory in the British Universities and College Sport (BUCS) League Western Conference Shield, triumphing over the Royal Agricultural University with a nail-biting 34-33 win.

Group shot of the rugby team after receiving their medal

The path to the final was paved with determination, as the team emerged victorious in a semi-final clash against the University of the West Of England, setting the stage for a challenging showdown at the Western Conference Finals held at Exeter University.

The game was an end to end classic with the lead changing hands on several occasions. The team led by inspirational captain Morgan Thomas refused to be beaten, with outstanding performances from the whole squad showing great resilience to secure the win.

The victory crowned a successful season for UWTSD, characterised by a compelling league campaign that promises promotion to Tier 4 in the BUCS Men’s Rugby pyramid for the upcoming season. Supporters have witnessed the team’s commitment week after week, and their style of play has evolved throughout the season and this showed with the best performance reserved for the Conference final.

Standout individual performances came from Ben James and Ethan Williams in the forwards with some barn storming runs, Will James at full back who was a solid last line of defence and Sam Potter, who controlled the game superbly at outside half and kept the scoreboard ticking over with a near faultless display of goal kicking.

Gareth Potter, Head of Rugby at UWTSD said:

“We were delighted with the win particularly in the light of some injuries to key personnel in the lead up. It shows how the squad has developed in both numbers and quality which is the goal for the University’s rugby set up over the next few years. We have some hugely talented players who work hard off the field to prepare properly for these games and this has shown through with an excellent season, culminating in this match. We look forward to strengthening our squad further for next season.”

Lee Tregoning Head of the Academy of Sport at UWTSD added:

“Huge congratulations to the team, club committee, coaches, support staff and Students’ Union. The working relationship between the Club, the Students’ Union and the Academy has been excellent and the results both on and off the pitch has been hugely encouraging for the future.”

If any current or future students are interested in joining the Rugby Club at the university, please get in contact with Gareth (G.potter@uwtsd.ac.uk). The Rugby Club offers Male and Female provision for all abilities. It would be great to see the numbers grow next season and build on the success of the side this season.