Cardiff Rugby have continued investing in the next generation by handing Isaac Jones a long-term academy contract.
The up-and-coming tight-head has been part of the club’s Junior Academy for the past two years and has trained with the Under-18s squad this season due to his potential.
He has been unable to feature at that level due to his age but has continued to impress through the Cynon Valley Schools system at Dewar Shield level and for Cardiff Rugby Under 16s North, who he will continue playing for this month.
The Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun and Aberdare RFC product will move to Ysgol Gyfun Glantaf for sixth form and Cardiff Talent and Pathway Manager, Aled James has high hopes.
He said: “Issac was identified early and we have worked closely with him over the past year. His playing attributes and physical markers are really promising and we look forward to seeing him excel at age grade rugby, alongside representing Ysgol Glantaf in the Welsh Schools and Colleges league, while carefully supporting his introduction to the senior game.”
The long-term contract is the latest example of the club investing in talent earlier than ever before with the appointment of Stuart Bradfield as Emerging Player Programme Manager also an important part of the strategy.
Cardiff Rugby Under-16s North head coach Luke Thomas, who also heads up the Cynon Valley programme, has shared his delight for the 16-year-old prop and believes he is a clear example of how players with potential can progress through the pathway.
He said: “The talent discovery and development phase of the pathway is working really well; it provides a clear roadmap for young players like Issac who demonstrate the required attributes and characteristics.
“Associated Emerging Player Programmes (EPPs) are broadening our approach to developing as many players possible in the 14 to 15 year old talent pool and the recent appointment of Stuart Bradfield will strengthen that further.
“The Dewar Shield and Under 16s Age Grade programmes then provide a competitive element for 15 to 16 year olds and helps to prepare them for the Development Phase from 16 to 18.
“Isaac is a strong tight-head with a bright future both on and off the field. It’s encouraging to see the Pathway functioning so well and Cardiff Rugby retaining young talent at the club and in Wales.”