CONTENTS
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)1. INTRODUCTION
William Webb Ellis and all that
As every rugby fan knows (or think they know), the game of rugby football began in the public school of that name one day in 1823 when a pupil, one William Webb Ellis, picked up the ball in a game of soccer and – heaven forbid – ran with it.Whether this was true or not we don't know for certain, but what we do know is that throughout the mid-nineteenth century the game of Rugby Football – taking its name from Rugby school of the story – spread to the other public schools of England. The pupils from these schools took the game to the universities. Returning students from these universities then took the game further afield and to the other British countries, to Wales, Scotland and Ireland. And before long the game was taken to what were then called 'the colonies' – South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, who became rather good at it. It was also taken to the USA where it mutated into their game of American football, quite a different game in most respects, but with a recognisable parentage. American historians date the distinctly American rules (eleven players instead of fifteen, the line of scrimmage, etc) from the 1880s. The forward pass from a scrimmage was legalised in 1906. (For a brief biography of William Webb Ellis from the Wikipedia website, click HERE.)
The modern-day oval ball, surprisingly, wasn't officially recognised by the Rugby Union until 1892 when they endorsed the oval ball as played in Rugby school as the compulsory shape. The ball was called Rugby School's Lindon Big-Side Match ball after its inventor and seller, Richard Lindon (1816-1887), who conveniently owned a sports' shop directly opposite the front doors of Rugby School. As anyone who tries playing rugby with a soccer ball will soon find out, an oval ball is much easier to handle than the spherical soccer ball which was used in both soccer and rugby until the 1860s.
In most cases, the game as it was played in Britain reflected the class origins of the public schools and universities where it had been born, namely the upper and middle classes. But there were two regions of Britain where it was taken up with great enthusiasm by the industrial working class – in Wales and the North of England, in particular, Lancashire and Yorkshire.
The rugby games, then as now, were played on Saturdays, which were also working days. Many of the Northern employers allowed their players time off to play for their works teams without losing any wages, a practice known as 'broken time' payments. And this is where the Northern clubs came into conflict with the rulers of the game, who were mostly aristocratic land owners from the South of England. Rugby was seen by them as an amateur game for which the players received no payment. It was to be played for enjoyment only and as a means of developing 'character'. The wealthy members of the southern clubs who played and ran the game could afford to play for nothing – they after all didn't have to work for their living. The working-class players of the north, in contrast, couldn't afford to lose even a Saturday afternoon's wages. And so eventually, in 1895, the northern rugby clubs broke away from the Rugby Union to form their own association, which they renamed initially 'The Northern Union' later to become 'The Rugby League' and which soon became fully professional. They also used the opportunity to change the rules of rugby football to streamline the game. The wing forwards were discarded, leaving a 13 man team; the line-out went and so did the loose set-pieces, the rucks and the mauls.
In Wales, however, industry had developed along different lines and this was reflected in how rugby was played and organised. Wales did not go professional as a result but stayed amateur even though its class composition was quite different from the English clubs.
Ivor Morris, manager of Pontamman Chemical Works, who organised Ammanford RFC's first game in 1887. Rugby reaches Carmarthenshire
The game spread to Wales fairly swiftly. If William Webb Ellis did indeed pick up his soccer ball and run with it in 1823, then by 1872 Llandeilo RFC had been formed in far-flung Carmarthenshire. (Llandeilo RFC, by the way, was one of the founder members of the Welsh Rugby Union in 1880). Then, in 1887, a rugby club was formed in equally distant Ammanford. Before the game reached Ammanford it had first started in West Wales along similar lines to the North of England, in that rugby was already being played by tinplate workers in the Neath, Llanelli and Swansea areas (still the three first class clubs of West Wales to this day). We'll let the official history of Ammanford Rugby Football Club take up the story at this point:The first game 1887
"If one can cast one's mind back over a hundred years one can imagine young boys watching and imitating their heroes as they do today. In the autumn of 1887, the village of Ammanford, formerly known as Cross Inn, was privileged to witness its first game of organised rugby football. Ammanford R.F.C. was born. The distinction of being Ammanford's first opponents fell to Mynyddbach, a successful team from Swansea at that time. Details of the scoring are rather vague. However, it is known that Mynyddbach won by virtue of having scored two goals.
The Centenary Booklet Credit for arranging this first game is solely due to the efforts of Mr. lvor Morris, who was one of Ammanford's leading industrialists of the period. He was a great rugby enthusiast, and rendered yeoman service to the game and Ammanford R.F.C. for some considerable time. Prior to 1887, rugby had been played with success in the Swansea, Neath and Llanelli districts. From these districts had come the migration of workmen to the then flourishing tinplate industry of the Amman Valley. The arrival of these workmen, several of whom had rugby experience, together with the initiative and enthusiasm of Mr. lvor Morris undoubtedly led to the formation of Ammanford R.F.C.
....The first captain of Ammanford was Joe Phillips, a good player as well as being a splendid cricketer and a successful businessman. Also in the side in that first game of formation were brothers Arthur and Frank Carlisle. Both had played for the Harlequins Rugby Club in London, and indeed wore the famous checkered jerseys of the Harlequins when they played for Ammanford. The Carlisles were friends of Mr. lvor Morris and were often his guests at Ammanford. One of the wings was W. J. Protheroe of Llanelli who later became well noted in Welsh musical circles as an excellent singer. W.J. Was well remembered in this first game for being kitted out entirely in red – jersey, shorts and socks and even wore a red tasselled cap.
.... The first ever game was staged at the Ynys Field, adjoining the river Amman, on the site of the now closed Baltic Saw Mills. The Club's headquarters for nearly 50 years was the Cross Inn Hotel on Ammanford Square, and its first colours were Black and Amber".
(Ammanford RFC Centenary Booklet 1887 – 1987, page 10)
Thus rugby football was established in Ammanford in 1887 and we'll trace some of its subsequent development over the following hundred years to the present.
It's interesting to note from the above that the players in that first game could chose to play in their own jerseys. The referee must have had to be pretty attentive as to who was doing what, and to whom. The club's colours changed to green and then white before becoming the familiar black and blue in 1912.
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)2. THE EARLY DAYS 1887-1914
The earliest photograph 1892/93. Note the players aren't all wearing the same jerseys. Those Ammanford teams of the pre World War 1 period must have been of an exceptionally high standard not seen in the town since. In the season 1889-90, only two years after their formation, Ammanford RFC produced a Welsh international; another followed in 1896 and two more were selected to play for Wales in quick succession. In the season 1895/96, only eight years after their formation, they were the first second-class team to be admitted into the Welsh Rugby Union. We'll continue with the centenary booklet:
....Having made their debut versus Mynyddbach, the newly formed side went from strength to strength. Many players were available and no difficulty was encountered in fielding a strong and regular XV Compared with the present, fixtures presented a great difficulty. Only teams accessible by train could be played although occasionally horse brakes were used. One well-remembered trip to Lampeter to play the college team meant a 6.30 a.m. start, to return the following morning at 6.00 am – all the way and back by horse brake. What enthusiasm! Today's players do not know they are born.
....The most popular opponents of the early days were teams from the Swansea and Llanelli areas, together with Llangennech and Llandeilo. Llandeilo hold the privilege of being one of the founder members of the game in Wales having been formed in 1872. Swansea A XV regularly appeared on the fixture card. Swansea then ran three sides – first, "A" and second XV's.
....It speaks volumes for the standard of Ammanford rugby in those early days when it is realised that in the first nine years of its existence it had produced two players who had represented Wales. In 1889-90 Percy Lloyd, the son of the local doctor, was selected to play for Wales against England at Dewsbury, and indeed helped Wales to their first victory against England. In fact, until the emergence of the legendary Gareth Edwards, he held the distinction of being the youngest player to represent Wales. He played for Wales four times as a wing three-quarter. In 1896 another product of the side, namely Jack Evans, won his Welsh jersey. A fine forward in typical Welsh fashion he would have won many more if he had not decided to go "North" and join the Rugby League.
First second-class team admitted to Welsh Rugby Union
....By 1895 the club had firmly established itself in Welsh rugby circles and they were rewarded in the season 1895/6 with membership of the Welsh Rugby Union. Together with Llangennech R.F.C., Ammanford became the first second-class club in Wales to achieve this honour. Naturally, this enhanced the club's prestige and ensured an abundance of good fixtures.....With the close of the nineteenth century a gradual industrial change took place in the district, tinplate manufacturing being replaced by coal mining. This change brought about an increased population, and its subsequent increase in support for the club. Thus by 1900 the club was well established with a splendid team, keen and hardworking officials and a promising future.
....The years 1900-05 began with a well balanced side with a splendid reputation for sportsmanship. Few outstanding players were produced, although two brought great credit to the club. One, Police Sergeant Tom Evans, was capped for Wales in 1906 and played eighteen times for Wales. He was one of the finest forwards of his era to represent Wales. He captained Ammanford in 1902/03 before moving to Llanelli from where he was capped. He captained Llanelli from 1909-1911. The second outstanding player of this era was the Rev. Alcwyn Jones, who, whilst playing for Ammanford as a centre three-quarter was chosen to play for Wales on the eve of an international but unfortunately was not notified until it was too late for him to make the journey!
God stops play
....The club continued to thrive until the year 1905, when a very unexpected occurrence caused a complete cessation of its activities. This occurrence was the advent of the great Welsh Methodist Revival of 1904 which spelt doom to rugby in Ammanford. Such was its effect that both players and officials severed their connections with the club. Even the use of the playing field was withdrawn, and membership of the W.R.U. discontinued. Nevertheless there were a few die-hards left who were determined that rugby would not completely disappear from the town. The outcome of this determination was the formation of a junior side with the title of "Ammanford All Whites" – a youth team of its era. Little did they know that they had laid the foundations to a side recognised as the finest in the club's history – the Ammantord lnvincibles 1912-14.....With a decline in the fervour of the religious revival, rugby soon regained its former status in the town. In 1907 the "Ammanford All Whites" assumed the title of Ammanford R.F.C. and with a ready-made side the club soon re-established itself. The colours of the team remained green until 1911 when they were changed to all white. The old ground was again made available and in 1907 membership of the W.R.U. Was re-obtained. Public support was much in evidence and the fortunes of the club were in the ascendancy. By 1910 the club was beginning to show glimpses of the brilliant combination which it eventually became. Immense enthusiasm was created amongst the supporters and large crowds were present at home games. Gates of £100 plus were not uncommon – an excellent achievement when one considers that the price of admission was 2½ p, representing a gate of 4,000 spectators that many present day clubs would be pleased to receive. It's quite unbelievable today, but before the advent of mass media such as radio and TV such mass attendance at sporting events was quite common. Nearby Swansea Town soccer club used to have gates of 20,000 in the 1950's – for its youth team!
....When keen rivals like Amman United, Resolven, Gowerton or Carmarthen Quins were met excitement was intense and feelings often ran high on and off the field of play. Resolven R.F.C., who celebrated their centenary in 1985/86, enjoyed one of their most successful periods at this time and rivalry between the clubs often reached fever pitch. On one of Resolven's visits to Ammanford two excursion trains were run to convey their supporters (note: that's two trains, not coaches).
....So confident were they of success that they brought with them a supply of memoriam cards in memory of Ammanford's lost record. Their optimism, however, was misplaced, as the home team were victors. Seven days later, the return game was played at Resolven. Ammanford too had memoriam cards prepared, which were justified as they brought off the double. The following is the text of the memoriam card prepared by Ammanford:
In Loving Memory of Dear Resolven
Who passed away under trying
circumstances on March 7th 1914Rest in peace, 0 Glorious Record,
'Neath Resolven's muddy sward;
Laughing gibe, and boastful swanking,
Ever wins its own reward.
Useless was thy feeble struggle
With the boys from Amman's Glen,
Sweet remembrance lingers mournful
By thy silent grave – Amen.Cwsg yn dawel, hoff Resolven,
Yn nhawelwch Dyffryn Nedd
Wylo'n hidl mae dy geraint
Mewn anobaith uwch dy fedd:
Cafodd bechgyn braf Rhydaman
Arnant fuddugoliaeth lawn,
A thra pery'r Nedd i lifo
Bydd dy goffa'n hyfryd iawn.
.............................. – LlwynogThe Invincibles 1912-1914
....At the A.G.M. of 1912-13, the decision was passed to change colours to blue and black hoops, and these colours have remained to the present. The side of 1912-14 was one of the finest that the club produced. Although not in the sense "Invincible" having lost on a couple of occasions in this period they had the distinction of not having their line crossed for three seasons – a magnificent record. Practically the sole recreation in Wales at this time was rugby football. There were no cinemas, discos etc. The players of this period dedicated themselves to the game. They even trained by moonlight. They even met on Friday nights to discuss the other team's weaknesses and to discuss the tactics to employ. Such devotion could only end in one thing – perfection. No heroes, just men playing for each other and for the team. Sadly the last survivor of this side, Trevor Williams of Tirydail Lane, died in the 1980s – the end of an era.
Six members of the Invincibles 1911 – 1914. Every player of the Invincibles team was presented with a club cap and blazer for their parts in the magnificent achievement of not having a try scored against them for three seasons. Back Row: Dai Evans, Dai Lewis, Tommy Jones. Front Row: Abbott Griffiths, George Rees (capt), Trefor Williams. The Great War of 1914-18 brought an end to all rugby in Wales but with the cessation of hostilities in 1918, rugby was soon again in full swing with a sprinkling of the 1914 team plus some excellent new recruits and a strong side was soon obtained.
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)3. BETWEEN THE WARS 1918-1939
....In the early days after the 1914 – 18 war, Ammanford suffered greatly by a constant loss of players to the larger W.R.U. sides and to the Rugby League. Had these players remained there is no doubt that the team would have obtained the success and standard of the 1912 – 14 side.
....In the first Welsh XV to be picked after the war, Ammanford had a representative in Ike Fowler. A clever and extremely durable scrum half, he played against a New Zealand Army Team. Although he did not play often for Ammanford, he was treated as an Ammanford man, and in 1919 he was selected for Wales. In the same year he moved North to play Rugby League for Batley, and captained them to the Rugby League Championship in 1924. He represented Wales at Rugby League. An interesting story concerning Ike happened in 1981 at the age of 86. He became the oldest player to receive his Welsh Cap. Because of the amnesty shown by the W.R.U. in their Centenary year in 1981, all players who had not received their Welsh Caps because of their going "North" duly received them. So proud was he to receive this Welsh cap at the age of 86 that he even wore it to bed for a week. He died a happy man a few months later.
....Other prominent players of the nineteen twenties were Joe Rees and Tom Hollingdale. Joe Rees was born in Garnant but played full back for Ammanford in 1912, and again in 1920. He was capped 12 times at full back for Wales and captained Wales in 1924. Tom Hollingdale, later to become Vicar of Stratford, London, was employed in Ammanford for a short while before joining the police at Neath. Whilst playing for Neath he was capped six times for Wales.
....A yeoman servant of the club at this time was Roger Barrett. He captained the club in 1921 – 22, but his playing career stretched from 1910 to 1936. An amazing twenty-six years of active rugby – surely some sort of record.
....In 1925 and 1926 the district suffered severely from two serious industrial strikes which materially affected the club's fortunes. In 1925 it was the Anthracite Strike (described in the 'History' section of this web site) and 1926 saw the seven month long general strike and lock out. Employment became difficult and many players left the area.
First West Wales Rugby Union League Champions
....However, by great resolve the team was held together and in the 1929/30 season came a bright spot. The newly formed West Wales Rugby Union League Championship was won by Ammanford. This League now boasting 50 member clubs, proved a great boon to West Wales rugby and the officials responsible for its success deserve the highest possible praise for the zealousness with which they conduct and administer its affairs.....By the following season 1930/31, perhaps with players retiring and lax management, the club slumped badly and it experienced the leanest period in its career. Again the real enthusiasts came to the rescue, and after much hard work, an adverse financial deficit was cleared and a steady but uneventful period followed. The club owes a great deal to the treasurer from 1930 – 34, Mr. D. J. Edwards, who by sheer hard work, turned a very heavy deficit into a credit balance in a very short time.
Lt.-Commander Donald Tarr RN who broke his neck while playing for Wales when they beat New Zealand in 1935. Fortunately he made a full recovery though only ever played one more game of rugby before retiring. The nineteen thirties remained uneventful years with just a few rays of sunlight. In 1935 the Welsh team that beat New Zealand in Cardiff contained Lieutenant-Commander Donald Tarr, R.N. of Ammanford. A member of the well respected Tarr furniture family, Donald often played with Ammanford on his visits home from the sea. However, during the course of the match against New Zealand he had the misfortune to break his neck. So serious was this injury that grave fears were expressed for his life, but fortunately, he made a complete recovery, and even played one game of rugby before retiring! He also held the distinction of being the only man to appear four times against the All Blacks in 1935 – Hampshire/Sussex, Combined Services, Swansea, and Wales.
....In 1937-38 Ted Ward was chosen to captain Ammanford but moved to play with the Neath club. In the same season he left Neath and joined the Rugby League with Wigan. He captained the Wales Rugby League team and also toured Australia s as a member of the Great Britain Rugby League side. He lived in Garnant until his death in the 1980s.
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)4. THE WAR YEARS 1939-45
....The start of the Second World War in 1939 saw Ammanford R.F.C. cease its playing activities for the third time in its history, this occasion being the longest. However, in 1941 a youth side was formed and soon developed into an excellent side. The side was composed of boys too young to enter into National Service. This team fully maintained the playing traditions of the club. Many games were played, notably against Bromsgrove School, a Worcester public School evacuated to Llanwrtyd Wells. Llandovery College were also played. During the Christmas and Easter Holidays games were played against Ammanford Exiles, a team composed of servicemen home on leave. They were grand games and all proceeds were given to local charities. The youngsters of this youth side developed into good players and Ammanford were fortunate to have a ready made team when Rugby Football restarted in 1945.
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)5. FROM 1945 ONWARDS
....With the return of peace in 1945 after six hard years of bloody war, practically a new team had to be found as, with one or two exceptions, the players of 1939 had either retired or were still in the forces. On Monday, June 3rd, 1945, under the chairmanship of Mr. W. H. Locksmith, a meeting was held to discuss the possibility of restarting fixtures the forthcoming season. The W.R.U. was asked for assistance, especially regarding coupons for football equipment for the players. An appeal was made to the public of Ammanford for support and give the club a good start. Each committee man was given collecting books with an appeal for financial assistance.
....Perseverance paid off, and under the captaincy of Will Davies, (Wil Dogsbrook), fixtures were played in the 1945/46 season, and by 1946/47 a reasonably sound team captained by Dent Evans was available. A particularly good effort was made in the West Wales League Cup Competition, the club reaching the semi-final of the cup, where they, for unexplainable reasons, were defeated. Support at home games was a welcome feature and proved that there was ample support in the town for the club.
....The following season found the team under the captaincy of leuan Evans, albeit for a short period, as he left to play for Neath R.F.C. A colourful character, leuan was a respected coach and a National Representative on the Welsh Rugby Union. Two teams were fielded regularly and the playing strength of the club seemed assured. Jerseys per set at this time cost £28 per set compared to the astronomical figure of £400 per set in 1987.
Youngest ever captain of a Welsh Rugby Union club?
....Details of playing records of this period are not available but although great things did not happen such as cup wins or League Championships, the rugby was enjoyed and the club continued to build up its strength under capable captains such as Gordon Evans, Ron Evans, OIlie Thomas. In 1952 Roy Anthony was elected captain of Ammanford tender age of 17 years. It is thought, and with some conviction, that Roy is the youngest player to have captained any Welsh Rugby Union club. A player of immense class who was 20 years ahead of his time as a running full back, Roy was the pre-Centenary coach club after a flirtation as Chairman of Penybanc R.F.C. Indeed, Roy still played for Penybanc when he was 50!....Results were average, and until 1958 the club were of mid-table standard. 1957 saw the building of a grandstand and together with the playing area, the club possessed facilities that were the envy of many clubs. The pitch was and is still leased from first Ammanford Urban Council, next Dinefwr Borough Council and now Carmarthenshire County Council. The grandstand is owned by the club. An International XV played against Ammanford to open the stand and contained many famous players of the time. (The grandstand was demolished in 2004 after falling into disrepair. Instead, it was replaced by a new changing room complex, complete with boxing ring, to be shared between Ammanford RFC, Ammanford's soccer teams and the local boxing club.)
....In 1957 Cyril Davies was chosen to play against Ireland at Cardiff Arms Park and he played seven times for Wales before a bad knee injury against England in 1961 brought an end to his International career. Cyril played for Ammanford during the 1964/65 season but unfortunately then broke his nose and his career ended. In fact Cyril did play one further game in 1976 when he turned out to play against Aberavon Green Stars when was coach to Ammanford. A highly talented player, he would have become one of the all-time-greats if his career had not been cruelly cut short by injury.
....Under the captaincy of Vince Jones in 1958/59 however, the club had great success in that they won the West Wales Cup and the Presidents Cup for the first time beating Abercrave at St. Helens 8-6 before a large crowd. A replica of that cup now stands proudly in the Clubhouse. This team was acclaimed as one of the finest to have represented the club. One of the opposition in that final of 1958/59 was Clive Rowlands who later captained Wales fourteen times coached Wales from 1969-72, and who became one of the "Big Five" panel of selectors of the Welsh Team. The following season was again successful with 34 games being played, 24 being won, 5 lost and 5 drawn, but with no honours this time.
....The early part of the 1960's saw the break up of this strong team, and with the exception of the 1966/67 season, the sixties were a period of possibly the worst playing times of the club. The second team was discontinued and on many occasions a team was only obtained by calling at local clubs en route to matches to see if anyone fancied a game! However, the spirit of the players at the time was good, and it speaks volumes for the officials and committee that they managed to fulfill fixtures.
....In 1960/61 Roy Anthony became the first player in Ammanford's history to score more than 100 points. The club record is now held by Clive James with 238 points in the 1981/82 season.
....Season 1962/63 marked the 75th Anniversary of the club, and to celebrate the club played against a Welsh Representative XV on the 10th October. Refereed by International referee Gwynne Walters, the final score was 61-30. Twenty tries were scored and those present were delighted when Rhys Stephens, former Welsh Captain and W.R.U. selector, ran nearly 50 yards to score when he was in his late forties. The representative XV that day was:
J. E. Williams Llanelli Stuart Davies Llanelli Cyril Davies Cardiff and Wales (Captain) David Thomas Aberavon and Wales Colin Elliott Llanelli Brian Davies Llanelli and Wales Dennis Thomas Llanelli Len Cunningham Aberavon and Wales J. K. Jones Aberavon Byron Gale Llanelli J. Barnsey Aberavon J. Warlow Llanelli and Wales A. Butler Neath R. Stephens Neath and Wales P. Jones Aberavon ....In 1964 D. Ewart Davies became President of the Welsh Rugby Union. Ammanford can proudly boast that three of its officials have achieved the highest accolade in Welsh Rugby. Firstly, D. Ewart Davies in 1964, then Hermas Evans, who was honoured with the Presidency of the W.R.U. In 1982/83. Ieuan Evans then became WRU president in 1993. After Ieuan Evans another local man, Vernon Pugh QC from Glanamman, became RFU President. Vernon Pugh had been educated at Amman Valley Grammar School in Ammanford. His term of office coincided with the traumatic move to professionalism in 1995 and whose shock waves are still being felt. Vernon Pugh himself then moved on to become the International Rugby Board (IRB) president and oversaw the rugby World Cup of 1999 played in Wales.
....Season 1966/67 was successful with Ammanford managing to get to the play-offs of the league, only to lose their place by Brynamman putting in a protest that Ammanford had played a player on permit from Penygroes in one game. Brynamman subsequently were awarded the place in the top four play-off. During this season Oregon University from America visited Ammanford and in 1969 Brantford Harlequins from Canada.
Ammanford RFC 1968/69 – Back Row: Meurig Morgan, Rufus Evans, Brian Anthony, Ross Mathias, Robert Higgins, Dave Wainwright, Phil Richards, Alan Palmer, Peter Thomas. Front Row: Mel Evans, Moelwyn Jones, Malcolm Hale, Meirion Jones (capt), Anthony Rees, Wynford Harris. ....1966 saw the purchase of a clubhouse. After many years of wandering around Ammanford with facilities being kindly offered by the Pick and Shovel, British Legion, Castle Hotel etc. the club now had a "home of its own". "Hillside" was purchased for £9,000. Overlooking Ammanford from Penybanc Hill the club was a source of both strength and weakness. Weakness in that it always struggled to attract people to enjoy its beers, due to its location, but strength in that during the 1980's when finances to run the rugby teams had escalated, the club financed the running of the teams.
[Eventually the club gave up Hillside and used Ammanford Miners' Welfare Club as a temporary measure before realising their dream in 1995 when they built their own custom designed clubhouse alongside the touchline of the ground and right next to their grandstand. The grandstand itself was demolished in 2004 and a brand new changing room complex was built on the site, complete with boxing gym for the local amateur boxing club. The changing rooms now cater for all the sporting events played on the recreation ground which today includes rugby, soccer and cricket.]
....Experienced players returned to the club in the 1972 season namely, Allan Lewis and Brian Fowler, and the club enjoyed a successful season. They reached the final of the C. C. Evans Cup for Amman Valley clubs, only to lose 18-12 to Llandybie. The seventies were a period of rebuilding the club playing strength. The second team was restarted and although results have not always pleased, the club was able to provide a game for all and keep players at the club. The Youth XV, under the guidance of Dan (Slats) Davies, reached the final of the Amman Valley Youth Cup in 1972, only to lose in extra time to Tycroes Youth. In 1977 Ammanford reached the semifinal of the West Wales Cup only to be defeated by Hendy R.F.C., Hendy being the strongest team of the 1970's in West Wales rugby. During the 1970's the process of rebuilding continued and by the end of the l970's a strong youth team had been built, which was successful in winning both league and cup competitions in the Amman Valley. The talented players from this team entered the senior ranks and the eighties heralded another successful period in the club's history.
....After finishing bottom but one in the now sectionalised divisions of the West Wales League in 1979/80, Ammanford began to rise through the sections under the captaincy of long serving prop, Tom Mainwaring. Promotion ran through from section 'E' to 'D' to 'C' until the club moved into section 'B' for the first time. Unfortunately, this new 'B' status saw the breaking up of the team. Alan Williams joined Swansea R.F.C., Carwyn Jones joined Llanelli R.F.C. And Jeff Roach joined South Wales Police R.F.C. Other members moved away in search of employment as the area had become very limited in job opportunities.
....The C. C. Evans Cup was won on three occasions, 1981/82,1982/83 and 1984/85 and only lost in the final of 1983/84 on a tries technicality – (Llandovery scoring two tries to our one). 1985/86 saw the return from section 'B' to section 'C'. 1986/87, the pre-Centenary Season was mediocre in terms of results largely attributed to lack of fitness and dedication at the beginning of the season. Consequently, results in the West Wales League were poor and it was not until mid-November that a string of good wins were put together to pull the club away from possible relegation to section 'D'. New ground was broken at Easter time by the visit of a French side, Brest University R.F.C. to Ammanford. New friendships were forged and perhaps this is the beauty of this game in that those friendships seemed to be everlasting. Earmarked for the Centenary season is a tour to France and a return fixture arranged. Mention must be made of the club second XV in gaining promotion for the second season in succession to section 'C' of the Llanelli and District J.R.U. Whilst results do not always bring trophies to the club what must be remembered is that over 50 players are provided with a game of rugby each weekend. No mean achievement in these days of alternative leisure pursuits.
....Tom Mainwaring was selected as captain for the Centenary season, a richly deserved honour for his loyalty and Jeff Roach was appointed as coach.
....One pleasing aspect during the existence of the club has been the loyalty of its players through thick and thin. Whilst some may have moved on to pastures new, many have stayed with the club through the bad times to the good times. Indeed, the club recognised this in 1985 when they awarded a Club Cap to Gwynlais Williams for reaching 300 games for the 1st Team. Three Hundred games from the bad years of 1970 to the successes of 1985. Tom Mainwaring the present captain has now reached that figure and the club were honoured to present him with his "Cap" at the presentation night at the clubhouse in June 1987.
....Many names and faces on committee and on the playing field have changed during a century of activity. One cannot name them all, but they are all part of a hundred years of Ammanford. Someone once said, "We can never repay the past – all we can do is to make the future in our debt". Long may rugby football flourish in Ammanford.
Summary of notable events
1887 First organised game of rugby played in Ammanford. The birth of Ammanford RFC 1889–90 Wing three-quarter Percy Lloyd is the first Ammanford player to win a Welsh cap. He remains the youngest player to be capped for Wales until Gareth Edwards in the 1960s. 1904–1907 No rugby (or any sport) played in Ammanford due to Methodist Revival of those years 1912–1914 The great 'Invincibles' team. No team scored a try against Ammanford for three whole seasons. 1914–1919 No rugby (or any sport) due to World War I 1929/30 Winners of the first West Wales Rugby Union Champions League 1939–1945 No rugby (or any sport) due to World War II but some youth team games and games for service men on leave are played. 1952 Ammanford player Roy Anthony is youngest player ever to captain a Welsh Rugby Union club at 17 years old. 1957 Grandstand built 1958/59 Winners of West Wales President's Cup 1962/63 75th Anniversary of the club. Play a Welsh Representative XV containing six Welsh internationals 1965/66 Winners of the C C Evans Cup for Amman Valley teams 1966 Club acquires 'Hillside' in Penybanc as its first official club house 1972 Finalists in the C C Evans Cup for Amman Valley teams 1972 Youth team finalists in Amman valley Youth Cup 1981/82 Winners of the C C Evans Cup for Amman Valley teams 1982/83 Winners of the C C Evans Cup for Amman Valley teams 1983/84 Finalists in the C C Evans Cup for Amman Valley teams 1984/85 Winners of the C C Evans Cup for Amman Valley teams 1987/88 Centenary Year. Play Swansea, Llanelli, Neath and South Wales Police teams and undertake a tour of France 1995 New clubhouse opened next to grandstand 2004 The 1957 grandstand is demolished after falling into disrepair. It is replaced by a new changing room complex, complete with boxing ring, to be shared between Ammanford RFC, Ammanford's soccer teams and the local boxing club. 2007-08 WRU Division Three West - Champions 2007-08 WRU West Wales Bowl Winners 2008-2009 First-ever winners of the Swalec Plate, played at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, before a 72,000 crowd as the warm-up game for the Swalec Cup final. Ammanford beat Risca 46-20. Welsh Caps who played for Ammanford RFC
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)6. THE DIAMOND JUBILEE BOOKLET (1887-1947)
Most of the above history has been summarized from the club's centenary booklet published in 1987. But in 1947 Ammanford RFC also published a Diamond Jubilee booklet to commemorate the club's first sixty years of rugby in the town. Due to the post-war paper shortage this booklet was rather small but which conveniently for us makes it short enough to reproduce in full. The very poor quality paper available in those days resulted in the photographs being rather poor as well, so most of these have been omitted in favour of the text, which we reprint in full.
1887-1947
SIXTY YEARS OF RUGBY
Ammanford RFC Diamond JubileeCommemorative booklet
APOLOGIA AND THANKS
THE compilation of this brief history of our Rugby Club has been prompted by the desire to place on record the more out standing features of the past sixty years. In undertaking this work, the compilers have been conscious of their shortcomings; they have also been handicapped by the necessity of confining the booklet to its present limits on account of paper scarcity. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of data, and it is sincerely hoped the reader will be indulgent enough to forgive any errors.
....The Ammanford Rugby Club wish to express its gratitude to all those kind individuals who so readily helped with information and in loaning photographs.
V.H.J.
D.E.D.
Ammanford, October 16th, 1947.CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTIONDELVING into history is ever a fascinating diversion, particularly to a rugger enthusiast, and especially when that enthusiast is a Welshman, and the history is of his country or locality.
....It is often said of a Welshman that next to his religion his rugby is his all-absorbing Interest.
....Whenever Welshmen foregather, it is almost a foregone conclusion that rugby football will eventually enter into their conversation. What energy and sincerity they introduce at these discussions, which invariably develop into an eulogy or condemnation of leading teams or players, or an analysis of the records of national and club side of the glorious past. These and many other details will always arise for discussion in a country where such intense keenness is shown for a sport.
....Nowhere is greater interest shown for rugby than in South Wales, particularly in its Valleys. Every village or hamlet has its rugger team and its history, and what pride is shown by supporters in the past deeds of their club, and the individual deeds of its players.
....Although rugby football is one of the youngest of popular outdoor sports, it has earned for itself, with the possible exception of cricket, a more outstandingly interesting historical background than any other organised sport. It is played in many parts of the world, but nowhere is it more popular than in South Wales.
....The Carmarthenshire town of Ammanford is certainly no exception to this interest in a great game. Sixty years ago this autumn, rugby was first introduced to Ammanford, and since that time the history of the game in the town has been one of high sporting endeavour and individual exploits. The Diamond Jubilee of Ammanford rugby has prompted the publication of this history, which, it is hoped, will stimulate further interest in the future welfare of the club.
CHAPTER 2
THE FIRST MATCH
Ivor Morris, manager of Pontamman Chemical Works who organised Ammanford RFC's first game in 1887. THE village of Cross Inn, Carmarthenshire, later to be known as Ammanford, was privileged to witness its first organised game of rugby football in the. Autumn of the year 1887.
....Credit for arranging this first game is solely due to the efforts of Mr. Ivor Morris, who was one of Ammanford's leading industrialists of the period. He was a great rugger enthusiast, and rendered yeoman service to the game for some considerable time. Whilst the details of this first game are rather vague, there is sufficient evidence available to determine the circumstances which led to the foundation of the Ammanford R.F.C.
....Prior to 1887, rugby football had been played with success in the Swansea, Neath and Llanelly districts. From these districts there had been a migration of workmen to the then flourishing tinplate industry of the Amman Valley. The arrival into the area of these tinplate workers, several of whom had had playing experience, together with the initiative of Mr. Ivor Morris, undoubtedly formed the basis on which this first XV was built. Unfortunately, it is impossible to obtain a completely accurate description of this team, but there is sufficient data available to prove that it was composed of a number of colourful individuals.
....At full back was Frank Jones, reputed to be a splendid catcher of the ball, and fearless in defence.
....One of the wing threequarters was W. J. Protheroe, a native of Llanelly, who later became a celebrity in Welsh musical circles as an excellent vocalist. Mr. Protheroe is well remembered by spectators at this game on account of his being attired completely in red – jersey, knicks and stockings; he also wore and played in a red tasselled cap.
....The two centre threequarters were brothers Arthur and Frank Carlisle, playing members of the London Harlequins rugby football club. These players, too, are well remembered on account of them having played in the famous chequered jerseys of the Harlequins. The Carlisles were personal friends of Mr. Morris, and were often his guests at Ammanford.
....At outside-half was Thomas Davies, of Pantyffynnon, happily still alive at the ripe age of 83 years. Mr. Davies is the sole survivor of this team.
....Amongst the forwards was David Davies, Penybank, a fine hard working forward, who later left the district to take up an appointment in the tinplate trade in Germany.
....Another celebrity in this team (he was also captain), was Mr. Joe Phillips, well remembered by the older section of the present generation as a splendid cricketer and successful business man.
....The distinction of being Ammanford's first opponents fell to Mynyddbach, a successful team from Swansea at that time. Details of the scoring is rather vague. It is, however, known that the visitors won by virtue of them having scored two goals.
....The value of scoring in those days was different to the present, a goal being more valuable than any number of tries. A try beat any number of minors, and if no goal or tries were scored, the side scoring the most minors were winners.
....This, the first game, was played on the Ynys Field, adjoining the river Amman, on the site now occupied by the Baltic Saw Mills [in 2005 this is the DHS building].
....The club's headquarters was at the Cross Inn Hotel, where it remained for nearly fifty years, and its colours were Black and Amber. Thus rugby football was established in Ammanford in 1887. In subsequent chapters an endeavour is made to outline briefly its history.
CHAPTER 3
EARLY DAYSHAVING made its debut versus Mynyddbach, the newly formed team went from strength to strength. Many players were available, and no difficulty was found in fielding a strong and regular XV. Compared with the present, fixtures were the greatest difficulty: only teams accessible by train could be played, although occasionally horse brakes were used. There is one well-remembered trip to Lampeter, to play the College team there, when a brake was the means of transport. A start was made from Ammanford at 6.30 a.m., to return the following morning at 6 o'clock – what enthusiasm!
....The most popular opponents in these early days were from the Swansea and Llanelly districts, together with Llangennech and Llandilo. Swansea A XV regularly appeared on the fixture card– Swansea then ran three sides– a First, A., and Second team. An interesting detail of the visit of the Swansea A team in 1890, was that their captain was Mr. John Howells, ex-postmaster of Swansea, father of Mr. Ken Howells, a splendid member of the present Ammanford R.F.C. committee.
....The team captain for the seasons 1890-91 and 92 was Mr. David LI. Lloyd, still hale and hearty, and a veritable mine of information on local sporting history. Other stalwarts were the four Edwards brothers, regular and loyal playing members.
....One brother, Mr. Willie Edwards, still maintains his interest in the club, and is a life member. Another family with a fine playing record were the brothers David, Bill and Tom Rees; a fourth and younger brother, George, had a splendid record both as player and referee in Rugby Union and Rugby League football.
....At this juncture in its history, Ammanford produced a player, in the person of Percy Lloyd, who has undoubtedly proved its most colourful personality. The son of Dr. Lloyd, a popular local medico, Percy was a player whose name is always coupled with the greatest of Welsh players. In season 1889-90, he was selected for Wales versus England, at Dewsbury, and helped Wales to gain its first win against England. He holds the distinction of being the youngest player to appear in the Welsh jersey; he played in four International games at left wing threequarter. Mr. Lloyd now lives in retirement in LIangammarch Wells, and is a keen fisherman – a sport at which he is as adept as he was at rugger.
....Another splendid product of the side of this period was Jack Evans, who won three Welsh International caps in 1896. Jack was a fine forward of the traditional Welsh type, and would undoubtedly have represented his country for many years had he not joined the Rugby League.
....It speaks volumes for the standard of Ammanford rugby in its early days when it is realised that in the first nine years of its existence it had produced two players of International calibre.
CHAPTER 4
IMPROVED STATUSTHE year 1895 saw the club consolidate its position in rugby circles by a successful application for membership of the Welsh Rugby Union. Together with Llangennech R.F.C., Ammanford was the first second class club in West Wales to achieve this honour. Naturally this enhanced the club's prestige, and together with the high standard of play ensured an abundance of good fixtures.
....Although the club was progressive in its outlook, there was one handicap under which it laboured, a handicap under which it has always laboured, – it has never throughout its career possessed its own ground. During its sixty years of activity, it has played on six different sites, on nine separate occasions. This is definitely not a credit to the club, and it is sincerely hoped that the present committee will endeavour to celebrate this Jubilee by making a determined effort to remove this anomaly.
....With the close of the nineteenth century, a gradual industrial change took place in the district: tinplate manufacturing was superseded by Anthracite coal mining. This change brought about an increased population and a subsequent increase in the Support of the club. Thus, by 1900, the club was well established with a splendid team, keen and hard working officials, and a promising future.
CHAPTER 5
CONSISTANCY AND A SET-BACKTHE years 1900-1905 began with a well-balanced side of perhaps more than average ability, and a splendid reputation for sportsmanship. Few outstanding players were produced; there were, however, two, both natives of the town, who brought great credit to the club. One, Police Sergeant Tom Evans, a great forward in every respect, became one of the finest forwards to ever represent Wales. He won eighteen caps, a splendid record for a forward. Gordon Evans, a grand-nephew of Sergt. Evans, is the present vice-captain of Ammanford, and might yet emulate his more famous kinsman.
....The second outstanding player of this era was the Rev. Alcwyn Jones, a grand centre-threequarter, who very unluckily lost his Welsh International cap through an unfortunate circumstance. He was invited on the eve of the match, to fill a last minute vacancy in the Welsh side, and by a misunderstanding the message was not delivered until it was too late for him to make the necessary journey.
....The club continued an active and consistent career until the year 1905, when a very unexpected occurrence caused a complete cessation of its activities. This happening was the advent of the great Welsh Religious Revival of 1904, which spelt doom to Ammanford rugby. So marked an effect did this revival have, that both players and officials completely severed their connection with the club. Even the use of the playing field was withdrawn, and membership of the Welsh Union was discontinued. Nevertheless, there were a few die-hards left who were determined that football was not to completely disappear in the town. The outcome of this determination was the formation of a junior side with the title of "Ammanford All Whites." A new playing field was obtained, and fixtures were soon arranged with neighbouring junior teams, and in very short time a good side was in operation. In forming this team, this band of stalwarts little realised that they had laid the foundation of the finest team in the club's history, the team that is always referred to as the 1912-1914 team, – the team of all the talents.
CHAPTER 6
"RE-ESTABLISHMENT"WITH a decline in the fervour of the religious revival, rugby soon regained its former status in the town. In 1907, the Ammanford "All Whites," together with its officials, assumed the title of Ammanford R.F.C., and with a good ready-made side, re-established the club. The youngsters comprising this XV rapidly developed physically and in playing ability; consequently the old standard of play was soon in evidence. The old ground was again available, re-affiliation to the Welsh Rugby Union obtained, and public support was increasingly forthcoming. Being in such a happy position, the fortunes of the club were much in the ascendant. By 1910, the team was beginning to show glimpses of the brilliant combination which it eventually became. Immense enthusiasm was created amongst the supporters, and big crowds were always present at home games. Gate receipts of £100 were then not uncommon – an excellent achievement when it is remembered that Sixpence was the price of admission.
....When keen rivals like Amman United, Resolven, Gowerton or Carmarthen Harlequins were met, excitement was intense, and feeling often ran high.
....Resolven R.F.C. enjoyed one of its most successful periods concurrently with that of Ammanford, and the rivalry between the clubs reached a very high pitch. On one of Resolven's visits to Ammanford, two excursion trains were run to convey their supporters. So confident were the visitors of success that they brought along with them a supply of memoriam cards in memory of Ammanford's lost record. Their optimism, however, was misplaced, as the home team were the victors. Seven days later, the return game was played at Resolven. Ammanford too had memoriam cards prepared, which were justified as they brought off the "double." The following is the text of the memoriam card prepared by Ammanford: –
In Loving Memory of Dear Resolven
Who passed away under trying
circumstances on March 7th 1914Rest in peace, O! Glorious Record,
'Neath Resolven's muddy sward;
Laughing gibe, and boastful swanking,
Ever wins its own reward;
Useless was thy feeble struggle
With the boys from Amman's glen,
Sweet remembrance lingers mournful
By thy silent grave. – Amen.Cwsg yn dawel, hoff Resolven,
Yn nhawelwch Dyffryn Nedd,
Wylo'n hidl mae dy geraint
Mewn anobaith uwch dy fedd;
Cafodd bechgyn braf Rhydaman
Arnat fuddugoliaeth lawn,
A thra pery'r Nedd i lifo
Bydd dy goffa'n hyfryd iawn.Llwynog.
....One other game was played between the clubs during this season, a Welsh Cup game. It was played at Resolven under atrociously wet conditions, the field being a quagmire. Resolven won by one try, a result which is still disputed by Ammanfordians.
....Other excellent and exciting games of those days were with our near neighbours, Amman United. Splendid matches are always expected between such friendly rivals, and this healthy competition has done a great deal to bring about the high standard of rugby always displayed in the Valley.
CHAPTER 7
THE REWARD OF APPLICATIONSO exceptionally high was the play of the 1912-1914 side, that a consideration of the methods adopted to attain this standard is worthy of attention. Practically the sole recreation of the youth of rural Wales, 1914, was rugby football. The counter attractions of cinemas, etc., were then unknown; in consequence of this, the young player applied himself wholeheartedly to physical training and the studying and practice of the rules and tactics of the game. Nowhere was this better exemplified than in Ammanford; they trained with monotonous regularity, well knowing that only a high degree of physical fitness would ensure them their place in the side. They even trained by moonlight, and during the shorter evenings well organised road runs were a feature. Another splendid innovation of these lads was their Friday night players' meeting; here tactical moves were discussed, and the known strength and weaknesses of the morrow's opponents considered, and to which counter moves were adopted.
....Such devotion to a game could end in but one attainment, the attainment of perfection, and in this the Ammanford team succeeded. This was a team in the truest sense, well equipped in all positions, each player of equal merit, with but one objective – the team's success and no individual glory.
CHAPTER 8
BETWEEN THE WARS
Lieutenant-Commander Donald Tarr RN who broke his neck while playing for Wales when they beat New Zealand in 1935. Fortunately he made a full recovery though only ever played one more game of rugby before retiring. ON the cessation of hostilities in 1918, rugby was soon in full swing; with a sprinkling of the 1914 team, plus excellent recruits, a strong side was obtained. Early in its post-war career, the club suffered severely by a constant loss of players to larger Rugby Union and Rugby League sides. Had these players remained, there is no doubt that the team would have attained the standard of the 1912-14 side.
....In the first post-war Welsh XV, versus the New Zealand Military team, Ammanford had a representative, in the person of Ike Fowler, at scrum-half. Ike was a dour and clever scrum worker, and came of a sporting family; his brother, Jesse, is still a keen worker for the local club, and has been a capable referee for many years. A third brother, Lance, was a particularly nippy stand-off half.
....A yeoman servant of the club during this period was Roger Barrett, a forward of sterling quality, who had an amazingly long playing career. He commenced playing with the Ammanford All Whites in 1910, and took part in his last game in 1936; twenty-six years of active participation in senior rugby must surely be a record.
....Another fine player of the nineteen-twenties to bring renown to himself and the club was Tom Hollingdale, now the Vicar of Stratford, London. The Rev. Hollingdale was employed in Ammanford for a while, after which he joined the police force at Neath. Whilst a playing member of the Neath R.F.C., he made six appearances as a forward for Wales. Despite his work and his football, lie found the necessary time for studies which equipped him for entrance to the London University, from where he graduated and realised the splendid ambition of being received into Holy Orders.
....In 1925 and 1926, the district suffered from two serious industrial strikes, which materially affected the club's fortunes; employment became difficult, and many players left the town.
....There was, however, one bright spot. In 1926-27, the newly formed West Wales League Championship was won by Ammanford. This League, which now has a membership of thirty clubs, has proved a great boon to West Wales rugby, and the officials responsible for its success deserve the highest praise for the zealousness with which they administer its affairs.
....With the passing of time and lax management, the affairs of the club slumped badly, and in 1930, it experienced the leanest period of its career. Again the real enthusiasts came to the rescue, and after much hard work, an adverse financial deficit was cleared, and a steady but uneventful period ensued.
....The Welsh XV that played and beat the 1935 New Zealand touring team had amongst its forwards, Donald Tarr, of Ammanford. Lieut.-Commander Tarr, R.N., to give him his present title, had in this game the misfortune to break his neck. So serious was this injury, that grave fears were entertained for him, but fortunately he made a complete recovery, and even played one game of rugby before retiring.
....The start of World War 2. saw the Ammanford club cease its activities for the third time in its career, this occasion being the longest.
CHAPTER 9
WORLD WAR 2 AND AFTERTHE disorganisation of normal routine caused by war, very readily affects rugby football. The season 1939-40 had bid fair to be good, an Australian touring side had actually arrived in this country, but having to return without playing a game. Ammanford, in common with other Rugby Union Clubs, ceased activities completely.
....In 1941, a youth side was started, a side that rapidly formed itself into an excellent combination, composed mainly of youths too young for National Service. This young team fully maintained the prestige of Ammanford Rugby. Many splendid games were played against Bromsgrove School, a Worcester School evacuated to Llanwrtyd Wells. Llandovery College were also played. During the Christmas and Easter Holidays, regular matches were arranged with the Ammanford Exiles, a team composed of Service-men home on leave. These games were grand, being played in the true spirit of sportsmanship. The whole of the proceeds were given to local charities, and quite a fair sum was realised. The youngsters of this team have practically all developed into good players, the majority are now regularly playing senior football.
....Two products of the side have played for Wales: Hugh Lloyd Davies was the Welsh full-back in the representative matches in season 1945-46, and Peter Rees, left wing three-quarter, played against Ireland at Swansea last season.
....With the restart of the club in 1945 practically a new team had to be found; with two exceptions, the players of 1939 had either retired or else were still in the Forces. The re-building period was indeed difficult, and at the start a few severe reverses were experienced. However, perseverance was soon rewarded and by the commencement of season 1946-47 a reasonably sound team was available and quite a good season ensued. A particularly good effort was made in the West Wales League Cup Competition, the Club leaching the Semi-final at which stage they were unexplainably defeated. This partial success re-created much enthusiasm and splendid attendances at home games was a welcome feature. In the latter part of this season, the marked improvement in the standard of play was so appreciated by the supporters, that it proved conclusively that there is ample support in the district to maintain a team in the highest class of rugby.
....The current season promises well, the finances are sound and there are many keen and promising players and it behoves the officials and committee to concentrate on the creation of a well managed club and a sound XV, a XV comparable with, or even better than, the best in the club's history.
1. Introduction
2. The Early Days 1887-1914
3. Between the Wars 1918-1939
4. The War Years 1939-1945
5. 1945 Onwards
6. The Diamond Jubilee Booklet (1897-1947)
Date this page last updated: August 24, 2010
