Welsh international announced at region as former Wales coach leaves
Welsh international announced at region as former Wales coach leaves
The Scarlets have also confirmed the departure of a former Wales coach
Former Wales lock Bradley Davies is climbing up the coaching ladder
(Image: Darren Griffiths/Huw Evans Agency )
The Scarlets have confirmed the addition of former Wales international Bradley Davies to their coaching team ahead of next season.
The 66-cap second-row joins from the Ospreys, where he has been working as an academy coach for the last two seasons. He has also been working with Scott Baldwin at Super Rygbi Cymru side Bridgend Ravens.
The former Cardiff, Wasps and Ospreys lock will look after the contact area for Dwayne Peel's side - joining existing assistant coaches Jared Payne, Albert van den Berg and Emyr Phillips.
The 38-year-old - who captained Wales in 2013 on their summer tour of Japan - was one of 10 players hand-picked by the Welsh Rugby Union in 2019 to take part in a player to coach scheme.
'I am honoured to take up the coaching role at the Scarlets," said Davies. "It is a fantastic opportunity for myself and one which I am going to take with both hands.
'For me, it's the chance to add some value in my areas and help the team reach the next level. I also get to work with some awesome coaches which will be invaluable in my career.
Article continues below
'It's great as a young Welsh coach to have a club like the Scarlets show faith in you and offer you the chance to grow - I'm looking forward to helping the Scarlets become the team we want them to be. I'm excited to get going, working with the boys and ripping into pre-season.
'I'd also like to thank the Ospreys Academy, the coaches and my good friends Andrew Bishop, Paul James and James Hook for their help in getting me to this position as well as everyone at Bridgend Ravens, a proper Welsh club where I had two fantastic years. I have no doubt they are going to be a massive force in semi-professional rugby.' Join WalesOnline Rugby's WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free
On the addition of Davies, Peel added: 'Brad is a young, ambitious coach who will bring a huge amount of energy and enthusiasm to the group as well as his experience at the top end of the game from his playing days.
'We were pleased with the growth shown by the squad this season, securing Champions Cup rugby and reaching the URC play-offs and as a coaching team we are determined to build on that over the summer heading into the new campaign.
'After coaching with the Ospreys Academy, age-grade teams and with Bridgend in the SRC, Brad is keen to take the next step into the professional game and we look forward to welcoming him to the group when we return to Parc y Scarlets next month.'
The Scarlets have also confirmed their academy coaching set-up for next season.
Article continues below
Scott Sneddon, who is currently coaching with Wales U20s, will continue as head coach, withy Phil John, Tom Phillips and Rhodri Jones assisting him.
Former Wales contact area coach Gareth Williams, who also previously coached the Scarlets defence, has left his position as academy pathway manager.
Emyr Phillips will take on the role, while also coaching with the senior squad as a scrum coach.
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Wales Online
an hour ago
- Wales Online
12 brilliant SUP paddleboarding locations to try in Wales
12 brilliant SUP paddleboarding locations to try in Wales What could be better than getting a core workout on the water whilst watching the world go by? Wales is home to some superb paddleboarding hotspots (Image: Portia Jones ) Stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP), has exploded in popularity in recent years and is one of the fastest-growing water sports in the UK. What could be better than getting a core workout on the water whilst watching the world go by? The benefit of a SUP sesh is that it's a fun, low-impact activity that can be enjoyed solo (for pro paddlers), with family and friends and is suited to most fitness levels. Wales is home to some superb paddleboarding hotspots, including charming canals, rivers and dramatic coastlines. With so many scenic locations to choose from, there's surely an ideal SUP spot near you. In this guide, we'll show you some of the best places where you can give paddleboarding a try in Wales and also give advice on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on the environment. Ready? Hop on board. Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal This is one of my favourite spots to SUP (Image: Portia Jones ) Winding its leafy way through the Welsh countryside, the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is often dubbed one of Britain's prettiest paddles, and for good reason. It stretches a whopping 35 miles from Brecon down to the Five Locks Basin in Cwmbran, with a further seven miles of unnavigable canal to Newport on the main line and seven miles to Cwmcarn on the Crumlin Arm. Article continues below Up north, the canal is in the capable hands of Glandŵr Cymru (aka the Canal & River Trust in Wales), while the lower stretches, from Pontypool south, are looked after by a trio of local councils: Torfaen, Newport, and Caerphilly. It's a bit of a patchwork, but it all comes together to create one seriously scenic waterway, largely thanks to tireless volunteers and campaigners. You can go on a guided paddleboarding tour between Five Locks and Pontymoile with the pros at Sup Hike Explore, a relatively new outdoor company specialising in guided SUP trips in locations across Wales. The Five Locks to Pontymoile route is one of several guided trips Kris offers to aspiring and experienced paddlers who want to SUP with a pro. This scenic section is a boater's favourite and a paddleboarder's playground. It's packed with bridges and tunnels where you'll need to drop to your knees, flick on your headtorch, and stay on your board while navigating in the dark. You'll also spot kingfishers and herons and even a few non-native terrapins as you glide along. Pop in for a pint at the waterside Open Hearth Pub and grab lunch at The Canal Boat Café. Read my full review of paddleboarding on this pretty canal here. The River Wye Stretching 134 miles and traversing the border of Wales and England, the River Wye offers relaxed paddleboarding in scenic surroundings. (Image: Portia Jones ) Stretching 134 miles and traversing the border of Wales and England, the River Wye offers relaxed paddleboarding in scenic surroundings. The Wye is one of the few rivers that's easily navigable by canoe or kayak for over 100 miles, with long stretches that are perfect for stand-up paddleboard (SUP) adventures. Along the Wye, paddleboarders can opt for half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips, depending on their experience level. One of the most picturesque paddle routes for adventurous paddlers is from Monmouth to Ross on Wye in England. This two-day trip takes paddlers past cosy, riverside pubs, wooded valleys and a plethora of wildlife. First-time paddle boarders might want to book a guided river trip or a taster session with qualified professionals. Inspire2adventure offers SUP basics on the Wye as well as a 'mega sup', which can hold eight people for a unique family day out. Lake Vrynwy While you can't swim in the reservoir (shame as it looks so inviting), you can hop on a SUP board or a kayak and paddle around the still waters (Image: Portia Jones ) Lake Vrynwy is an excellent place to SUP or hike through the 24,000-acre RSPB Reserve, with viewpoints and hides around the lake offering opportunities to observe the amazing variety of birds and scenery. This under-the-radar destination in Powys, with a forest-hugged reservoir, is packed with hiking trails and wildlife and is where you can try watersports on serene waters. While you can't swim in the reservoir (shame as it looks so inviting), you can hop on a SUP board or a kayak and paddle around the still waters. Bethania Adventure is situated on the opposite side of the lake from the hotel and offers rentals of canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and a sailboat. Prices start from £15 for a SUP board and £20 per hour for a double kayak. After your paddle, head to Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa for a pint on the terrace overlooking the reservoir. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Cardiff Bay Experience a unique perspective of Cardiff Bay and its waterways by joining a Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) experience at the Cardiff International White Water Centre (CIWW). (Image: Portia Jones ) Experience a unique perspective of Cardiff Bay and its waterways by joining a Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) experience at the Cardiff International White Water Centre (CIWW). There's a range of taster sessions, courses, SUP yoga and socials at this dynamic water sports hub in the city. Glide through a lively cityscape on your SUP board past bridges, residential flats and the striking Principality Stadium as you paddle down urban rivers. Want to launch your SUP on the Rivers Taff and Ely? Ensure that you only launch from Cardiff Harbour Authority-approved sites. Also, ensure that you've completed an approved 'Intro To SUP' course before you take to the water. Looking to SUP with new friends? Cardiff SUP Social sessions are for paddlers who know their way around a T-grip and depart from the Cardiff International White Water centre in Cardiff Bay, led by a qualified professional. In the summer, these social SUP sessions leave CIWW on Wednesday evenings 6-8pm and on Saturday or Sunday mornings, when the wind and water quality in the bay allow. Contact CIWW directly to book onto the SUP Social sessions Book now! Bala Lake Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) at sunset (Image: Visit Wales ) Beautiful Bala Lake [Llyn Tegid] is Wales' largest natural lake at over four miles long and a mile wide. Full of local legends, it's situated in the 'Lake District' of southern Snowdonia and boasts the most inviting, clear water for paddling. The lake is famed for its impressive mountain scenery, rare wildlife and excellent fishing opportunities. In addition to being a SUP hub, the lake also offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for sailing, canoeing, and wild swimming. Looking to hire a SUP? Bala Watersports provide SUP equipment hire for pros and instruction for aspiring paddlers. Don't forget to obtain your lake permit from the Lake Warden's Centre before launch. The Lake Warden can request to see permits at any time, so be prepared. Milford Haven At Milford Beach Activity Centre, you can experience stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking from the Hot Water Slip a (Image: Portia Jones ) From a 17th-century Quaker whaling town and shipbuilding outpost to a modern marina, Milford Haven is now a chic destination with a renovated waterfront packed with indie shops and restaurants and has watersports that launch from the harbour. At Milford Beach Activity Centre, you can experience stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking from the Hot Water Slip and explore the historic Milford Haven Waterway shorelines surrounding Milford Haven. This local business operates out of a blue shipping container overlooking Milford Beach, offering guided tours, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and kayak hire. Go on a guided tour of the estuary with their experienced guides to gain a deeper understanding of the area's history, including the Vikings who settled here, the Welsh fishing industry, the town's military connections, and its past industries. Mawddach Estuary, Barmouth This picture-perfect estuary offers ideal paddleboarding conditions in Barmouth, set against a mountainous backdrop. (Image: Daily Post Wales ) The River Mawddach meets the sea at the sandy bays of the Mawddach Estuary. This picture-perfect estuary offers ideal paddleboarding conditions in Barmouth, set against a mountainous backdrop. Launch your SUP board and soak up the delicious views of the harbour, Southern Eryri peaks and the Grade II* listed railway viaduct. SUP Barmouth offer a range of stand-up paddleboard lessons and tours in Barmouth Harbour and the Mawddach Estuary and caters for all ages, including beginners and seasoned paddle pros. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire Barafundle Bay (Image: Getty Images ) Popular Barafundle Bay is regularly listed as one of the top beaches in the world and is a superb place to SUP in Pembrokeshire. This secluded beach can be a challenging place to paddle as it's only accessible on foot. The crystal-clear blue waters and golden sands are definitely worth the trip, though. Keep your eye out for a wealth of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and basking sharks as you merrily SUP along. Outer Reef Surf School offers a guided paddle trip from Stackpole Quay to Barafundle Bay, taking paddlers past epic cliffs and caves in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Drawing on 25 years of local expertise, these SUP pros have crafted exclusive SUP routes that showcase Pembrokeshire's hidden treasures. Sup beyond the typical tourist trails, revealing secluded coves and pristine waterways that most visitors never discover. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, their ISA-qualified instructors ensure a safe, enriching adventure suitable for all skill levels. Llandegfedd Lake Llandegfedd Reservoir (Image: Crown Copyright / Visit Wales ) Llandegfedd Lake is a spectacular 434-acre reservoir with a water sports and visitor centre on-site. Set amongst the rolling hills of the Usk valley, you'll find an array of activities at the Welsh Water-owned and operated lake, including paddle sports, sailing and open water swimming. The lake is fully equipped for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) activities and even features changing rooms with hot showers, as well as a café where you can grab a post-paddle brew. Paddle pros can launch their own SUP board on the lake, and there's also a brand-new SUP kit available for hire. For beginners, Llandegfedd offer expert tuition and courses to get your paddle skills up to scratch. Llangorse Lake Paddleboarding on Llangorse Lake (Image: Portia Jones ) Llangorse Lake is in the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons National Park) and is known for being the largest natural lake in South Wales. Here, you can try your hand at fishing, canoeing, sailing and now paddleboarding in an idyllic setting. In addition to being incredibly scenic, the lake is also rich in nutrients, supporting a diverse range of aquatic plants and wildlife. Whether you explore the area by SUP or on foot, there are plenty of natural wonders to observe here. The lake is privately owned, and you'll need to buy a pass to SUP with your own board. Alternatively, seasonal SUP passes are also available onsite at the Caravan Park Shop. Lakeside Boat Hire has SUP boards for hire, so you can discover the natural wonders of the lake without breaking the bank. Cardigan Bay SUP life in Cardigan Bay (Image: Keith Morris ) SUP alongside seals and dolphins in the marine life haven, Cardigan Bay in Ceredigion. Check the conditions before setting out to ensure it's calm enough to float around the coast and explore secluded bays. Coastlines and river estuaries in the area offer a variety of stand-up paddleboard (SUP) routes for experienced paddle enthusiasts. Discover Cardigan's Celtic Routes and heritage along the way with abandoned limekilns and hillforts as you gracefully glide around the peninsula, hopefully spotting lots of wildlife. Cardigan Bay Watersports offers paddleboard hire and lessons for first-timers, utilising Red Paddleboards for tuition, which generally provide good SUP stability. The Gower Peninsula The Gower coastline is a perfect place to try your hand at paddleboarding if there is no swell and low winds. (Image: Portia Jones ) The Gower coastline is a perfect place to try your hand at paddleboarding if there is no swell and low winds. There are a few gorgeous Gower spots where you can launch your SUP, including Caswell Bay, Mumbles and Langland Bay. Crashing waves and tidal patterns make paddleboarding on the coast a tad more challenging than on lakes and rivers, so be fully prepared. If you're new to paddleboarding, check out guided trips or courses before heading to the beach with your board so that you stay safe on the choppy waters. Stand Up Paddle Gower offers a range of courses and trips along the Gower coastline, where you'll explore parts of the coastline you've never seen before. These SUP tours are suitable for paddlers with a relatively 'good' level of fitness and experience in a variety of conditions, or who have at least had a few lessons or have paddled with them on SUP CLUB jaunts. After a SUP sesh, have lunch at Rok Restaurant in Bracelet Bay. On the menu you'll find beautifully presented small plates of goat's cheese and grilled pea asparagus, salt & vinegar monkfish scampi, lemon mayonnaise and Pembrokeshire potato salad with new season greens. How to Get Started with SUP and how to stay safe Anything involving water can turn risky if you don't take the right precautions and are not fully prepared (Image: The Lake ) Stand-up paddleboarding is a brilliant way to get out on the water and enjoy the outdoors, and it's generally a safe sport suited to a wide range of ages and abilities. But anything involving water can turn risky if you don't take the right precautions and are not fully prepared. Getting into a safety-first mindset before you even step on your board is a smart move and can make all the difference. To help you paddle with confidence, we've put together some easy tips on kit, safety and what to know before you set off Kit You'll Need Types of paddleboards: Touring boards – longer and designed for covering distances efficiently. Inflatable boards – easy to store and carry; perfect for most paddlers. Hard boards – offer better performance but are heavier and less portable. All-round boards – stable and ideal for beginners or casual paddling. Touring boards – longer and designed for covering distances efficiently. Inflatable boards – easy to store and carry; perfect for most paddlers. Hard boards – offer better performance but are heavier and less portable. All-round boards – stable and ideal for beginners or casual paddling. Essential items: Adjustable paddle Leash (always use one) Buoyancy aid or personal flotation device (PFD) Waterproof case for your phone Appropriate clothing for the water temperature Dry bag for spare kit or snacks Staying Safe on the Water Why not join a SUP social? (Image: Mark Lewis ) Always use a paddleboard with a leash – it keeps you attached to your board if you fall off. Wear a personal flotation device that allows you to move freely while paddling. One person per board – don't share unless you are taking part in an organised 'mega SUP' session. Take your mobile in a waterproof case – if you're in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Paddleboarding with a friend is safer and more fun. Going solo? Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back. Check the weather and tide times before you set off. Paddleboards are easily blown offshore. Give your board and gear a quick safety check before you head out. Ensure everything is in good condition. If you're new to paddleboarding, book a taster session or a course to learn the basics. Got Your Own Board? If you're paddling on canals, rivers, or lakes in England and Wales, you'll need a waterways licence for areas managed by the Canal & River Trust and other authorities. You can get one from Paddle Cymru. Article continues below A Paddle Cymru membership gives you an annual waterways licence, so you're covered to paddle on licensed waters across England and Wales. It also provides up-to-date information on where to paddle, what to expect on the water, and downloadable route guides.
The National
2 hours ago
- The National
World Cup misery for England as Littler and Humphries are knocked out
The world's top two players slipped to an 8-4 second round defeat at the Eissporthalle in Frankfurt, where Martin Schindler and Ricardo Pietreczko made the most of the backing of a partisan home crowd to seal a comprehensive victory. Littler and Humphries, who both received MBEs in the King's Birthday Honours, were made to pay for missed doubles with the 18-year-old in particular turning in an off-colour display in a country where he has endured previous disappointments. GERMANY DUMP OUT ENGLAND! 🇩🇪 What. A. Story! Martin Schindler and Ricardo Pietreczko produce a spectacular performance to topple England's titans Luke Humphries and Luke Littler! 📺 | Last 16 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 A delighted Schindler, who had insisted in advance that the English duo were 'beatable', told Sky Sports: 'I was right because we believed in ourselves. 'We have been putting in a solid performance, and obviously the double 16s from Ricardo just went in, so we are very happy to go through. 'Today was one step and tomorrow is the other. That's it.' Booed by the home crowd, Littler started nervously and the Germans took the first two legs, but his 123 check-out got England on the board before a 64 finish levelled it up at 2-2. BACK-TO-BACK LEGS FOR ENGLAND! It's not over just yet… Humphries and Littler are battling valiantly here, and they register back-to-back legs to reduce the deficit to 7-4… 📺 | Last 16 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 However, the the teenager missed three darts at a double in the fifth leg to allow Pietreczko to win it with a 106 out-shot and another in the sixth as the Germans restored their advantage, and after Humphries had hit 25 rather than bull going for 122, they went in at the break 5-2 ahead. Pietreczko took out 101 after the resumption before Germany went 7-2 up and although Littler and Humphries took the next two, they eventually succumbed as a return of just four doubles from the 11 chances they created ultimately proved costly. Germany's reward is a quarter-final tie against Australia, who routed Argentina 8-1 with Damon Heta and Simon Whitlock proving too strong for Jesus Salate and Victor Guillin despite missing 21 of their 29 attempts at doubles. Twice-winners Gerwyn Price and Jonny Clayton secured Wales' passage with a resounding 8-2 win over the Philippines. Here's the moment Netherlands wrapped up a stunning whitewash win over Scotland! 🇳🇱 SIXTEEN legs without reply for Danny Noppert and Gian van Veen in this tournament! 🤯#WCOD25 | Last 16 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 The Welsh pair, who claimed the crown in 2020 and 2023, powered their way through to a last eight clash with Hong Kong with the minimum of fuss despite the first three legs going against the darts. However, Scotland's Peter Wright and Gary Anderson found themselves on the wrong end of a demolition job as they went down 8-0 to the Netherlands in just 15 minutes. Danny Noppert and world youth champion Gian Van Veen, who took out 130 to claim the fourth leg on Scotland's throw, were in inspired form, averaging 100.2 and converting eight of the 12 darts they had at doubles to breeze through to a meeting with the Czech Republic. William O'Connor and Keane Barry eased the Republic of Ireland to a showdown with neighbours Northern Ireland after an 8-3 victory over Switzerland in which they were always in control. Wales, Netherlands, Germany and Australia go through as Day Three comes to a close ✅ Some big shocks in Frankfurt! — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 Northern Ireland were comfortable winners over South Africa as Josh Rock and Daryl Gurney eased them to an 8-2 success. Elsewhere, there were wins for the Czechs over Malaysia and Hong Kong against Sweden.
The Herald Scotland
2 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
World Cup misery for England as Littler and Humphries are knocked out
Littler and Humphries, who both received MBEs in the King's Birthday Honours, were made to pay for missed doubles with the 18-year-old in particular turning in an off-colour display in a country where he has endured previous disappointments. GERMANY DUMP OUT ENGLAND! 🇩🇪 What. A. Story! Martin Schindler and Ricardo Pietreczko produce a spectacular performance to topple England's titans Luke Humphries and Luke Littler! 📺 | Last 16 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 A delighted Schindler, who had insisted in advance that the English duo were 'beatable', told Sky Sports: 'I was right because we believed in ourselves. 'We have been putting in a solid performance, and obviously the double 16s from Ricardo just went in, so we are very happy to go through. 'Today was one step and tomorrow is the other. That's it.' Booed by the home crowd, Littler started nervously and the Germans took the first two legs, but his 123 check-out got England on the board before a 64 finish levelled it up at 2-2. BACK-TO-BACK LEGS FOR ENGLAND! It's not over just yet… Humphries and Littler are battling valiantly here, and they register back-to-back legs to reduce the deficit to 7-4… 📺 | Last 16 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 However, the the teenager missed three darts at a double in the fifth leg to allow Pietreczko to win it with a 106 out-shot and another in the sixth as the Germans restored their advantage, and after Humphries had hit 25 rather than bull going for 122, they went in at the break 5-2 ahead. Pietreczko took out 101 after the resumption before Germany went 7-2 up and although Littler and Humphries took the next two, they eventually succumbed as a return of just four doubles from the 11 chances they created ultimately proved costly. Germany's reward is a quarter-final tie against Australia, who routed Argentina 8-1 with Damon Heta and Simon Whitlock proving too strong for Jesus Salate and Victor Guillin despite missing 21 of their 29 attempts at doubles. Twice-winners Gerwyn Price and Jonny Clayton secured Wales' passage with a resounding 8-2 win over the Philippines. Here's the moment Netherlands wrapped up a stunning whitewash win over Scotland! 🇳🇱 SIXTEEN legs without reply for Danny Noppert and Gian van Veen in this tournament! 🤯#WCOD25 | Last 16 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 The Welsh pair, who claimed the crown in 2020 and 2023, powered their way through to a last eight clash with Hong Kong with the minimum of fuss despite the first three legs going against the darts. However, Scotland's Peter Wright and Gary Anderson found themselves on the wrong end of a demolition job as they went down 8-0 to the Netherlands in just 15 minutes. Danny Noppert and world youth champion Gian Van Veen, who took out 130 to claim the fourth leg on Scotland's throw, were in inspired form, averaging 100.2 and converting eight of the 12 darts they had at doubles to breeze through to a meeting with the Czech Republic. William O'Connor and Keane Barry eased the Republic of Ireland to a showdown with neighbours Northern Ireland after an 8-3 victory over Switzerland in which they were always in control. Wales, Netherlands, Germany and Australia go through as Day Three comes to a close ✅ Some big shocks in Frankfurt! — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 14, 2025 Northern Ireland were comfortable winners over South Africa as Josh Rock and Daryl Gurney eased them to an 8-2 success. Elsewhere, there were wins for the Czechs over Malaysia and Hong Kong against Sweden.
