Ex-Scarlet to take over as Bargoed RFC head coach

Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Former-Scarlets back-rower Jack Condy will take over as Bargoed RFC’s head coach next season.

The 28-year-old, who was forced to retire at 23 through injury, has coaching experience at his former clubs Penallta and Cross Keys, as well as from a stint coaching the Dragons Under-18s side in 2021/22.

Aberbargoed-born Condy will be joined in Bargoed by Gareth Richards, Anthony Lott and Lee Pearson, who will continue as assistant coaches.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Roders will stay on as director of rugby, while Brett Wakefield stays as first team manager.

Bargoed chairman Neil Carter said: “Jack is a young coach with huge potential who has already proven himself coaching in the championship. He will have plenty of experience around him to drive this team as we look for further success next season.

“It’s important to recognise the good work of outgoing coaches Mike Pugsley and Rhys Buckley, who have done a great job with us in their time at the club.”

Condy said: “It’s clear that Bargoed have ambitions to progress on and off the field. That excites me, especially with the current group of players at the club who have so much experience.

“There are some very talented youngsters coming through who will learn and develop over the next couple of years from the current group of senior players.”

Season comes to an end

Bargoed rounded off their season with a big home win over Glamorgan Wanderers in their final WRU National Championship game of 2022/23.

Both Ashley Norton and James Leadbeater scored two tries each, while Lewis Johnson, Keagan Bale, Dafydd Carter and Callum Merrick also grabbed tries in a 54-21 win at Bargoed Park.

Steffan Jones kicked seven conversions in the game.

The Bulls moved up to second in the WRU National Championship, behind only unbeaten leaders Pontypool.

However, third-place Neath have three games in hand and need just four points to leapfrog Bargoed into second and gain promotion to the Premiership.