The team have been playing in the Premiership for the past five seasons and have appeared in four cup finals although they are still waiting for that elusive first win though. They also won the National Plate in 2009. Last season saw the club finish third in the league which was their best ever finish although they had a disappointing second round exit in the cup to eventual runners up Neath Athletic.
The Falcons have representatives at all levels of the Welsh set-up and contribute players to the national squad, under 20’s and college teams
Quick-fire questions: Michelle Fitzpatrick
Position: Prop
Nickname: Pontyclun are known as the Badgers but when the women’s team was founded in 1998 they decided on calling us the Falcons. It’s a name that we’re very proud of and once you’re a Falcon, you’re always a Falcon.
Club Star Player: I don’t think we have one stand out player. Gemma Hallett and Laura Prosser have been around the Welsh squad for a few seasons so are influential both on and off the pitch. There is also Catryn Grundy who I think has played in every position on the pitch. Finally there is Demi Hallett. She broke her neck playing for Cardiff Blues last Christmas and spent Christmas Day in hospital. She may not be back playing but she still has a passion for the game and strongly supports the team, looking to do more work in a support capacity on the sideline.
Proudest moment: Reaching the Cup final in May 2011. We had the supporters in the stand cheering the team on and the atmosphere and the spirit around the team was amazing. We lost to Neath which took a bit of time to get over but nothing can take away from the performance from every player who played in that game.
Hopes for the season: We always aim to win both the League or the Cup. We’ve under-achieved in the league for several years now so hopefully this is the season we can put some performances together and compete for the title.
Favourite Welsh Player: Adam Jones
Best aspect of women’s rugby: The community feel within the game which I think is returning. There is a fierce rivalry between all the teams in the Premiership but off the pitch away from it all, all the managers and the coaches just want the woman’s game to flourish.
How did you get involved in the game: I started playing at university. When I moved home I joined my local team. They unfortunately folded, but I joined the Falcons and I haven’t looked back since.
How to start at your club: We train every Thursday night at Pontyclun rugby club at 6:30pm. We welcome all new players, no matter what your ability. You can email us at Pontyclun_falcons_rfc@yahoo.co.uk, visit our website www.pontyclunfalconsrfc.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @PontyclunFalcon.
