After a difficult period a decade ago, Bonymaen is now back to its very best, running thriving teams at almost every level of the game.
The Swansea club’s 1st XV, National Plate finalists last season, are aiming to return to Principality Stadium and claim the silverware in Specsavers Division One West Central, their strong 2nd XV has entered the National 2nd XV Conference (WEST), their women’s team have secured promotion to the Women’s Premiership and the club has now built up a full complement of mini and junior sides, with a firm determination to also start a youth set-up next season.
Club chairman Richard Scammell is understandably pleased as punch with the position that many within the club have worked hard towards, on and off the pitch.
“Our numbers are certainly as good as they’ve been in recent times,” said Scammell, who is also assistant coach of Bonymaen Ladies.
“We regularly have between 40 and 55 at senior men’s training, and although we are 100% reliant on homegrown and local players, our success last year has no doubt helped to build momentum and numbers. The firsts are aiming for another good season. After having a taste of the big day out at Principality Stadium last season, they are certainly keen to get back there if they can and try to go one better, along with aiming to do well in the League!
“Joining the 2nd XV Conference was a no brainer for us. We won the Ospreys regional 2nd team league and cup last season and being in an even more competitive league against clubs of a similar level provides really appeals to our second team players, many of whom could easily step into the first team. The Ospreys regional league was a good level of rugby and we’re looking forward to stepping up another level again this season.”
The club’s involvement in the Women’s Premiership will be another challenge according to Scammell. “The girls are excited for the season ahead. The nucleus of our team played junior rugby with Bonymaen and have been with us since we started the women’s side four or five seasons ago. Almost all the girls are from the local area. Our captain Georgia Stevens, her sister Demi and Sophie Moore have been playing for the Ospreys in the Women’s Regional programme in recent weeks which was a fantastic experience for them.”
Whatever happens on the field, Bonymaen’s future is built on solid foundations providing rugby opportunities for the whole community.
