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The tournament is hosted by Wales this year, in association with Health Challenge Wales and kicks off tomorrow with Wales facing France and England playing Italy at Llandovery (2pm and 4pm).
The tournament then moves onto Parc y Scarlets on Sunday with matches between Wales and England (2pm) and Italy v France (4pm). The final matchday takes place next Wednesday at Cardiff Arms Park with Wales playing Italy and France playing England.
Davies, who played for Welsh Schools U16, Wales U18, Wales U19 and Wales U20 on his way to playing for the Blues and Wales, said, “This is one of the most important age groups for young players. It is the first time players put on a Wales shirt and sing the national anthem and it is a big chance to stake a claim for academy places. The players will have been playing school, club and regional age grade rugby until now so this will be a big step-up for them.
“While it will be their first big pressure game, and nerves are bound to get to them, I would advise them to go out and enjoy it. It’s a shop window for them as they look to impress club coaches and academy managers.
“This is certainly the first rung on a long ladder but if they can perform well now, the next step is to ask their coaches for feedback, and to work on their weaknesses over the summer and build on their strengths.”
Llantrisant born Davies captained Welsh age grade sides at Under 18, Under 19 and Under 20 and he took time to chat to current Welsh Schools Under 16 captain Calum Thomas who, as a flanker from Tonyrefail has inspirations to follow in Bradley’s footsteps.
Davies added, “It is a massive honour to lead any side and the players will look to Calum for leadership on and off the field. As someone from a small village myself, I know how much support Calum will get from everyone in Tonyrefail.
“When I was capped at age grade level, I was bowled over by the amount of support I got from the whole of Llantrisant. Busses would be arranged to come to games. Personally, my primary school Coed yr Escob had a big influence on my rugby career because it was the head teacher Mr Emanuel who introduced me to rugby and encouraged me to pursue the sport. I wish Calum and the rest of the squad all the best in this tournament and for the future.”
