THE UNIVERSITY of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) Men’s Rugby 1st XV has celebrated another landmark achievement after securing promotion to West Tier 2 for the 2026/27 season, following a remarkable second consecutive unbeaten league campaign.
The side continued its impressive rise by winning all 10 league fixtures, accumulating an outstanding 429 points and finishing ahead of nearest rivals Hartpury, who once again provided the sternest challenge in two highly competitive encounters, home and away.
While a league and cup double proved just out of reach following a quarter-final defeat to a strong Exeter side in the Shield competition, the season was nonetheless one of significant success and continued development for the University’s rugby programme.
At the heart of the team’s achievements was the leadership of captain Iestyn Wood and vice-captain Noah Potter. Iestyn produced consistently influential performances throughout the season, excelling with his line-out expertise and powerful carrying game. His form was recognised through regular inclusion in the Carmarthen Quins squad during their Super Rygbi Cymru (SRC) campaign.
Noah also played a pivotal role, featuring in every match across a variety of positions while leading the team’s analytical work off the field.
UWTSD’s strong links with SRC clubs Carmarthen Quins and Llandovery continue to create valuable pathways for local talent to compete at the highest levels of Welsh domestic rugby. Several UWTSD players, including Kieran Edwards, Teifi Thomas, Sam Potter and Cerith Davies, gained valuable experience representing the Quins or the Drovers during the season.
Among the standout moments of the campaign were a crucial away victory at Hartpury and impressive performances in Cardiff against both Cardiff University and Cardiff Met. Wingers Ianto Davis and Ifan Rossiter were regular contributors on the scoresheet throughout the season.
The squad also benefited from the experience and development of several senior players. Third-year students Sam Potter, Brychan Thomas, Cellan Carter Jones, Dom Hammett and Fraser Deer demonstrated significant growth during their time at UWTSD, producing a number of standout performances.
However, much of the team’s success was built upon the efforts of an outstanding first-year front row comprising Josh Wrigglesworth, Llion Jones and Teifi Thomas. Their powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate provided the platform for the team’s attacking and defensive successes throughout the season.
The University’s rugby performance partnership with the Scarlets strengthened further during the year, with Scarlets Academy coach Tom Phillips taking responsibility for the forwards. His expertise proved invaluable in developing emerging talents Tom Lake and Archie Broadhead, both of whom are expected to play increasingly important roles in the years ahead. Fellow Scarlets Academy player Jake Bowen also made a significant impact during the latter stages of the campaign.
Beyond the playing squad, UWTSD Rugby continues to provide valuable practical opportunities for students studying sports support disciplines. Cynyr Llewellyn Jones and Finlay Jones delivered match-day physiotherapy support, while Owain Lewis and Rhys Morris provided video analysis services, helping players maximise their performance throughout the season.
Reflecting on another successful year, Head of Rugby Gareth Potter said: “It has been another excellent season, and it’s been a pleasure working with the staff and players over the year. They are a very coachable group that buys into the rugby service that we provide here.
“We look forward to competing at a higher level next year and will be working very hard to continue the success. Hopefully, our reputation as a strong rugby university is developing, and we look forward to welcoming a new group of players next year.”
