As the Welsh Exiles programme has now ceased to exist

There is once again a clear gap in the pathway for Welsh-qualified players who are living and being educated in England.

We have created this initiative to help bridge that gap.

This is not a free programme. It is an independent talent identification and development system led by experienced coaches who have come through similar pathways themselves.

I am a former Welsh Exiles U18s player, having progressed through the system and competed against teams such as Llandovery and the Irish Exiles at Cardiff Arms Park. During my development, I was fortunate to play alongside players such as Johnny Williams, one of the most recent success stories to emerge from the Exiles pathway.

I am joined by co-coach Luc Anfield, who also came through the Exiles system and has gone on to represent Wales at U18 and U20 level. Alongside him, another coach within our network successfully progressed through the Irish Exiles system and went on to represent Ireland at U18 and U20 level after developing from his home region in Winchester.

Collectively, we are passionate about ensuring that talented Welsh-qualified players in England are not missed.

Any player with Welsh qualification is welcome to attend our trial and development sessions. If a player demonstrates the required standard, we will look to support and connect them with relevant clubs and academies at the appropriate time, with the aim of assisting progression onto the Welsh pathway.

Please note, selection is not guaranteed. Players will be expected to meet and exceed DPP and academy-level standards before any recommendations or contact is made with regional academies or governing bodies.

We currently have established links and relationships with Llandovery College, Christ College Brecon, and WRU regional academies, which we aim to utilise to support player progression where appropriate.