Aberavon schools rugby gets £1000 boost thanks to house builder

Aberavon Schools Rugby has been running for 114 years and consists of the four Comprehensive feeder schools in Port Talbot, Ysgol Bae Baglan, Ysgol Cymer Afan, Ysgol Cwm Brombil and St. Joseph’s Comprehensive school.

It provides a pathway for boys before going on to play for the Ospreys age-grade sides, Aberavon Rugby club at senior level, before developing into regional and International level rugby.

Former British and Irish Lions Allan Martin, James Hook, John Bevan and Richard Hibbard are all former players of Aberavon Schools.

The donation from Persimmon Homes is part of its Community Champions initiative, which donates up to £50,000 a year to good local causes and organisations across Wales. Persimmon are currently building new homes at its Awel Afan development in Aberavon.

The money received will be used to help further develop Aberavon Schools Rugby by supporting two volunteer coaches, themselves past alumni, to complete their level 2 coaching course along with providing new medical and training equipment for both under 11s and 15s age group.

Commenting on the donation, Head Coach of Aberavon Schools Rugby, Michael Dyer said: “We are very grateful for this kind donation from Persimmon Homes West Wales.

“This funding will help us to continue to build stronger foundations for Aberavon Schools Rugby and make sure we continue to provide opportunities not only for the 75 children of this seasons squads but in future years to come.”

Persimmon West Wales Managing Director, Stuart Phillips, said: “What we do is about far more than just building quality homes – we’re also committed to providing support and leaving a lasting positive legacy in the communities we build in.

“Our Community Champions initiative is all about supporting worthwhile causes in local communities, and with our local presence at our Awel Afan site, we’re delighted to be able to support Aberavon Schools Rugby.

“Aberavon Schools has a rich rugby heritage producing Lions such as James Hook and Richard Hibbard, and we hope our £1,000 donation will help them continue their excellent work developing the pathway of Welsh rugby talent.”

Persimmon’s is building 140 homes at it’s Aberavon development on the site of the former Afan Lido.

(Lead image: Persimmon Homes)