News

Congratulations Sion, what a great story, we are so proud of you! The Club had
some great news over the summer. Sion Parry had been selected to represent
Canada on their Tour of Tonga. Having come off the bench for his first Cap, Sion
was then elevated to a starter for his second, where he played very well. His Mum,
Dad and girlfriend Michaela were all there to watch him, having taken 60 hours to
fly around the world for the auspicious occasion. In modern times Rhiwbina RFC
have seen; Sam Warburton, James Bird, Owen Lane and Christ Tshiunza all gain
International Honours, after representing Rhiwbina RFC at Mini/Junior and Youth
Levels. Sion’s path has been slightly different from this, and it makes the story
very satisfying from a Club point of view.

Starting at the age of 6 the Parry family were fully involved in
Club rugby. Both parents Kate and Geraint were immersed as both volunteers
and supporters. Sion played all the age grades from Mini’s through to Juniors
but really blossomed at Youth Level. He was playing in a team that was short
of numbers but not short of character. All the lads kept together, with a very
strong team bond that they took to the opposition both on and off the pitch, and
Sion was at the heart of this. He was asked to play centre by his then Coach Dai
Pattison, rather than his more familiar back row role. No debate, Sion was in, and
played several man of the match performances leading the team by example to
some famous ,even though small scale wins. The next season at the age of just
18, he was selected for Rhiwbina First team, where week in week out he was an
outstanding performer. Once again he gave 100% to the club and played with and
incredibly positive attitude. Off the back of such a great breakthrough season, he
was picked up by Bedwas RFC initially and then has spent the last four Seasons at
Pontypridd RFC as a regular within their first team squad.

Sion and the family are still frequently at the Club, and are seen supporting
their younger son Owen, playing for the current senior group. This fantastic story
fits exactly with our simple club mantra that all are welcome from #7-77. Once
again, well done and congratulations Sion.