It’s official . . .

The club are delighted to officially announce the arrival of ex-Wales international and former player Byron Hayward who has been appointed as backs and fitness coach.

“We are delighted to have brought Byron back to the club because he’s a top coach,” said our team manager Chris Jones, who this season recruited his Fleur-de-Lys counterpart Mark Thomas as head coach.

“He’s a fitness fanatic and we hope his knowledge and enthusiasm for the game will rub off on our players, especially the younger ones.”

Besides Newbridge and Pontypool, where he was player-fitness coach, Byron also played with Ebbw Vale (as player-head coach), Abertillery, Newport, Llanelli, Gloucester and Sale Sharks. He has also coached the Newport Gwent Dragons’ Academy side as well as being involved with Wales under-19s.

On his arrival, Byron stated, “I am delighted to have been appointed backs/conditioning coach at one of the most famous clubs in Welsh Rugby. As a player I enjoyed great memories playing alongside some fantastic players such as Andy Allen, Paul Turner, Hemi Taylor and Steve Fealey.”

“I regard it as a huge honour that years later I have been given the task of getting ‘The Bridge’ back into the premiership.”

“I am under no illusions of the task that lies ahead, however I have been very impressed with the attitudes of the players and my fellow management team. My commitment to the club is such that I will make myself available if I am required.”

“The potential at the club is huge with an excellent fan base, along with a vibrant commercial structure. This is particularly important and I am aware that the club has been successful this season in recently attracting new sponsors. I have also been particularly impressed with the buoyant youth structure that has been put in place, and this has been reflected by the recent inclusions of scrum half Karl Kinsey and Loose Head Prop Tom Bevan.”

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ONE FOR THE DIARY: The club will be running an online Q&A session shortly, so if you have a question for Byron, please revisit the weblog where more information will be provided.