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Bedwas RFC head coach Stefan Sankala has stepped down from his position, the club has announced.

It comes after the club finished the 2022/23 season in midtable in the WRU National Championship – the second tier of Welsh club rugby.

Sankala, 42, first joined the club as a player in 2003 and continued playing until 2009.

He then became the club’s strength and conditioning coach in 2010, before taking over as head coach in 2019 following the departure of Steve Law.

Sankala’s final game at the helm was on Saturday May 20, where his side thumped Tata Steel 51-0 at the Bridgefield.

The club suffered an injury crisis towards the end of the season, forcing Sankala to put his boots back on and make an appearance off the bench in their 33-14 win over Trebanos in April.

Announcing his departure, Sankala said: “It is with a heavy heart to say the time has come.

“I have been at Bedwas for 20 years and shared some fantastic memories but now is the right time to leave.

“It’s important to say that I have lived and breathed this club for a long time, both as a player and coach and am immensely proud of the efforts from all involved.

“The close connections, friendships, and bonds I have made with past and present players and staff is something that I will cherish and never forget.”

He continued: “Thanks to you all for your support and belief in me from the very start, I hope I did you all proud.”

In a statement, the club said: “Everyone at Bedwas RFC wishes him well for the future and offer our grateful thanks for his efforts over a considerable period.

“Club Directors will be meeting to discuss the way forward and we will communicate our decisions as soon as we are able.”