Players Reunion Report 8th Dec 2006
The reunion to celebrate the club's 125th anniversary and the 35th anniversary of the club's treble of the Pontypool and District Cup, Pontypool 7's and Welsh 7's took place at the club on Friday 8th December. This was also the inaugural meeting of the Croesyceiliog RFC Former Players Club. There was a great turn out with over 100 former players turning up, including no fewer than 14 past club captains. The captains present were:
Dai Rowlands - 1997-99
Lee Yemm - 1995-96
Steve Hillier - 1983-84
Alan Wilmott - 1981-83
Clive Williams - 1979-80
Phil Thomas - 1978-79
Mike Lillingstone - 1976-77
John Attwell - 1975-76
Cliff Loader - 1973-75
Moggy Evans - 1970-73
Colin Malson - 1969-70
Roger Rice - 1956-57
Graham Jarrett - 1955-56
Cliff Cochrane - 1948-50
(Click here to see pictures of the night)|.
Club Chairman Colin Wilmott presented the club's oldest living captain, Cliff Cochrane, with a Life Members tie.
Club President John Attwell paid tribute to Colin Cobley the coach of the treble winning side and made a presentation to him.
All players present were asked to nominate the best player they played with at the club. Nominations on the night included the following tremendous players: Dai Rowlands; John Walker; Jack Walker (in his wellies); Ian Greening; John Attwell; Andrew Barber; Andrew Paraskeva;Jason Lloyd; Norman Edwards; Peter Lloyd; Roddy Jenkins; Peter Gifford; Roger Rice; Cliff Loader; Clive Burgess; Brin Priddle; Dickie Davies; Mostyn Davies. What the current coaches couldn't do with some of these players now!
Nominations are going to continue throughout the season and the best player of each decade announced at the annual presentation night. If you want to nominate your favourite player e-mail colin.wilmott@webster.uk.net|
A special tie has been commissioned to commemorate the 125th Anniversary and are now on sale at £5.50 also from Colin Wilmott.
The Former Players Club is planning further events which will be announced on this site including a get-together at the last home game of this season. All are welcome. Please spread the word.