The former Pontypridd and Cardiff Blues scrum half joined the Eugene Cross Park outfit during the off season and has clearly gelled at the heart of the Blaenau Gwent outfit, lifting the accolade for December.
He has been a mainstay of the side that has remained in the top two of the Principality Premiership throughout the first half of the season, and they won both of their December league matches – at home against Llanelli and away to Bedwas.
Downes, who now works as a support worker at a residential home for young people in Ebbw Vale, said, “We’re really pleased with how we’ve done so far this season. The side was a very tight knit unit before I joined and they have kept that spirit alive. They’d worked their way through the leagues together and being promoted to the Principality Premiership means so much to everyone at the club that they feel they have a point to prove every time they go out and play. It’s not just about staying in the Premiership but challenging for the top spot.”
Downes paid tribute to the work of the forwards at Ebbw Vale. “The forwards make such a difference, the set-piece provides a great platform, it’s been great playing with Ian Smerdon at half-back and we have some exciting backs to do some damage too.
“We are quite a complete side and that is down to the coaches who are second to none. The environment and the work that goes on behind the scenes is as good, if not better than anything I’ve experienced before, Jason (Strange) and Duane (Goodfield) have done brilliantly.
After being part of a full-time rugby set-up within the Blues academy, Downes has adapted well to his latest challenge.
“I certainly appreciate everything more after having to go out and work. Regular rugby has helped too and I would love to have another shot at professional rugby.”
Jason Strange believes Downes is capable of doing just that.
“Rhys has been a key lynchpin in our team this season, one of the first names on the teamsheet and deserves this recognition. He consistently produces high performance levels which is what is expected by coaches at regional level so I certainly think he has what it takes to step up.”
Joanne Silcox, Principality Building Society’s Ebbw Vale branch manager, said: “Ebbw Vale have shown some fantastic form since getting promoted into the Principality Premiership this season and Rhys has certainly bolstered their efforts. He has put in some brilliant performances and we hope this continues for the rest of the season.”
Rhys Downes factfile
Born: 10.3.90, Pontypridd
Position: Scrum half
Education: Ysgol Rhydfelin
First club: Rhydyfelin
Biggest influence on career: Family
Most admired player: Shane Williams
Most admired sportsperson: Floyd Mayweather
