‘It really is special’: Rugby team secures back-to-back treble-winning seasons

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Senghenydd Sirens women’s rugby union team have secured a second consecutive treble-winning season, clinching the league and two domestic cups, along with promotion to the top tier.

The Sirens won the Women’s Championship Division by a convincing thirteen points, losing only one league match all season.

To accompany their league triumph, they also retained the Mid District Cup after Ynysybwl were unable to compete in the final. Based on their season record, the Sirens were awarded the trophy.

With the Mid District Cup final not being played, Senghenydd instead competed in the Presidents Cup final against a combined team from Porthcawl, Gwernyfed, and Llantwit Fardre, winning 67–12 in Merthyr.

Alongside the treble, the team celebrated several standout individual achievements, with three players called up to the Celtic Challenge. Imogen Shide represented Gwalia Lightning, while Rhian Bowder played for Brython Thunder.

Winger Courtney Greenway also featured for Gwalia Lightning and was also selected for Great Britain’s Rugby Sevens squad, competing in Bordeaux and Valladolid in May.

These achievements mirror the success of the previous season, when the Sirens also completed a treble. That campaign included winning the WRU Women’s Bowl at the Principality Stadium, where they defeated Taffs Well 57–14.

Sirens head coach Joe Harwood told Caerphilly Observer: “The girls are easily one of the best and hardest-working groups I’ve ever worked with.”

“The togetherness and family feel is there for everyone to see. We even had a player returning from giving birth, who brings her young son to training – and the girls with long-term injuries will come and look after her. It really is special.”

Since taking charge three years ago, Harwood’s aim has been to rebuild the team and ensure the club fulfilled every fixture while welcoming players of all ages. “When I came in, I thought it was important to set expectations that were realistic,” he said.

“These last two years have been nothing short of sensational, and every girl deserves huge credit. We now have players of all ages, with some over 40 with great careers behind them, and some as young as 18 taking their first steps into women’s rugby.”

Harwood also noted that nobody expected the team to reach the summit of the Championship in their maiden season, and he is excited for what lies ahead.

“The goal, if I’m honest, was just to stay in the league. Before a ball was kicked, nobody would have predicted promotion, but here we are.

“I can’t wait for next year. Playing teams like Llandaff, historically one of the best clubs in women’s community rugby, and taking trips to Caernarfon will be something for myself and the girls to remember.”

Alongside competing in the Premiership, the club is also looking to create a second team – becoming the only active club in Wales to do so.

The Sirens now look forward to competing at the top level of community rugby in Wales, with trips to the likes of Caernarfon and Seven Sisters.