The backroom staff for the Wales RL Physical Disability side has been appointed.

Charles Coia and Ieaun Griffiths will be assistants to head coach, Rob Davies. Charles has previously coached throwing events in disability athletics and coaches juniors at Torfaen Tigers. 

Ieaun also coaches junior rugby league as part of Rhondda Outlaws and West Wales Origin. His professional life sees him work in a school supporting children with additional needs.

David Jones has been part of the PDRL setup since its inception, taking on a number of different roles. The Wakefield Trinity PDRL player will be Team Manager for 2024.

Kathryn Deverson and Andrew Perry will provide medical support. Kathryn was part of the staff during the Festival of World Cups in Autumn 2022 and has previously been on the staff of our Students and Dragonhearts teams. She is also part of the setup at Pontypridd RFC.

Andrew has also been part of the Dragonhearts medical staff and has provided pitch-side first aid in rugby union, football and with Bridgend Blue Bulls.

“I’m really pleased with all the appointments, not just individually but the balance of skills across the backroom team,” said Rob.

“They’re all excited to get started working with some really talented, inspirational athletes, and the enthusiasm is really contagious. We’ve had real interest in the open sessions which tells me it’s going to be the biggest year yet for PDRL in Wales.

“We’re already looking at a player pool of around 30, which is fantastic. There was a real energy at our first session last weekend and I’m sure that will set the tone for the year ahead.”

To find out more about PDRL in Wales, including playing, volunteering and commercial partnership opportunities, email rob.davies@walesrugbyleague.co.uk