There is a real sense of excitement around Mount Pleasant Park as our Youth prepare for the 2026/27 campaign, with an exciting blend of experienced second-year players and talented newcomers already making their mark during a highly encouraging pre-season.

With over 30 players regularly taking to the training field, enthusiasm and commitment have been evident from the very first session. Despite the recent sweltering conditions, the squad have embraced every challenge with outstanding energy and determination, creating a genuine buzz around the camp as preparations gather momentum.

Head Coach Matthew Smith said:

"The attitude from the boys has been outstanding. They've turned up wanting to learn, work hard and enjoy their rugby, which is exactly what we wanted to see. There's a real togetherness already developing within the group and that's something we're looking to build on throughout the season."

Outstanding Coaching Team

Beddau have assembled one of the strongest youth coaching teams in the area, bringing together a wealth of playing experience, coaching expertise and club knowledge.

Leading the group is Head Coach Matthew Smith, a former abrasive back-row forward who represented Beddau with distinction. His passion for the club, enthusiasm and understanding of the game have already made a huge impression on the squad.

Supporting him is Mike Neale, who takes responsibility for the backs and conditioning. As a WRU Level 3 coach with extensive coaching experience and an excellent playing background, Mike brings invaluable technical knowledge and a modern approach to player development.

Perhaps the biggest story of the summer is the return of Rob Downes as Forwards Coach. It is a signing that may have slipped under the radar, but it represents a major coup for Beddau. Rob previously enjoyed tremendous success as part of the club's First XV coaching team before moving on to successful spells with Porth Harlequins and Pontypridd Youth. His return to Mount Pleasant Park brings exceptional experience, proven success and an outstanding reputation for developing forwards and young players.

Matthew Smith added:

"Getting Rob back is massive for this club. His knowledge, experience and reputation speak for themselves. He's coached at the highest level of community rugby and has enjoyed success wherever he's been. For our young forwards to learn from someone of Rob's calibre is a fantastic opportunity and we're delighted to welcome him back home."

Another hugely respected figure returning to the club is Dai Bartlett as Backs Coach. Widely regarded as one of the area's most respected coaches in both women's and age-grade rugby, Dai's experience and coaching ability make him another fantastic addition.

"Dai is another brilliant addition. He's someone who players immediately respect and his track record of developing young players is outstanding. Between Dai, Rob and Mike we've got an incredible amount of rugby knowledge within the coaching group."

Current Beddau player and referee Lewis David joins as Specialist Coach, while Stephen Ballinger continues as Team Manager and Rhys Broadley joins up as Equipment Manager, both having helped many of this squad progress through the club's pathway.

More Than Just Winning

The opening phase of pre-season has focused heavily on skill development and attacking shape, with the coaching team delivering enjoyable, varied and challenging sessions.

"Our aim is to play an exciting brand of rugby that our supporters enjoy watching, but equally we want these boys to develop as players and as young men. If we can keep producing players who progress into our three senior teams, then we've achieved something really special."

The Youth section will continue working closely with the Under-16 squad, including staging Under-17 fixtures to help players transition smoothly into youth rugby.

Supporting Mental Health Together

Beddau Youth are also proud to announce a partnership with 4 Dewi 4 Mental Health for the forthcoming season.

Working alongside Julie and Leigh Edwards, the Youth section will organise fundraising events and awareness initiatives promoting positive mental health amongst young men and adolescents.

The partnership begins on Saturday 8th August with a cold-water dipping session followed by a team bonding day. Four or five Youth players will also become Mental Health Champions throughout the season.

Matthew Smith said:

"As coaches, we're not just here to develop rugby players. We're here to support young people. Working alongside 4 Dewi gives us an opportunity to educate the boys, encourage conversations around mental health and remind them that it's always OK to ask for help. It's a partnership we're incredibly proud of."

Looking Ahead

Beddau Youth will compete in the Cardiff Mid 2 League this season, with the fixtures due to be unveiled next Sunday at the league launch event at the University of South Wales.

Looking ahead to the season, Matthew Smith concluded:

"We're excited. We know there will be challenges, but this group has plenty of potential. If we continue working hard, enjoying our rugby and representing Beddau with pride, we'll give ourselves every opportunity to have a successful season. We can't wait to get started."