The London Welsh Board is eager to ensure the continuity and development from Mini and Youth rugby through to the senior performance squads.
With prudent financial management throughout the pandemic, the club has managed to make more efficient use of its resources to invest in the future stars of London Welsh and to enable them to have the perfect springboard into Senior rugby. In addition to the support we have given the Colts, today we announce the appointment of a Head Coach for our U16’s. Tom Baldwin, senior squad player and most capped player since project reset; has been helping this age group during last season and will up his commitment level to lead this age group across next season. Tom has just finished his PHD in biochemistry at Great Ormond Street and is currently working as a research scientist attached to the tissue engineering group when he is not training and playing for London Welsh.
Tom Baldwin, ‘Having worked with the boys last year during the lockdown season, I’m really excited to properly get going this year. There is a lot of talent in the squad and I think we are in for a great season’
Tom Baldwin will be mentored by the Senior squad coaching group and teaching the players very similar patterns to the Senior squad, which will aid this group to settle into the Cots the following season.
We would like to thank Damian McCarthy and Charlie Thompson (both former Occies) who have led this group for over 9 years and hand over the reigns to Tom, but will continue to assist with coaching and managing this group. This age group can also draw on some London Welsh star name as parents who support the coaches, with Richard (Barrel) Thomas and Adrian Davies. Tom Baldwin will also be supported by many members of the senior squad who are keen to help this age group develop and to inspire the next generation.
Gareth Vaughan Jones, Director of Minis & Youth; We have a thriving Minis section and want to provide an environment for our Youth to develop their rugby skills, have fun with friends and continue on their pathway to Senior rugby. This group will join the Colts Academy next season and will hit the ground running as they will both be coached by players who understand the London Welsh way of playing.
If any players from Year 11 want to join London Welsh, please get in touch with gareth.v.jones@londonwelshrfc.com.
