Experienced Wheelchair Rugby League coach and administrator Stephen Jones has joined the Wales Rugby League board and been elected as the new Honorary Secretary.
Jones brings more than 15 years of experience within Rugby League to the role, having held a wide range of positions at club, international and administrative level.
His appointment strengthens the Wales Rugby League board as the organisation continues to develop the sport and create opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in Rugby League.
Born and raised in the Wrexham area, he began his sporting career playing rugby union while serving in the RAF as a chef.
His Rugby League journey began in 2010, aged 44, when he became chairman and one of the coaches at junior club Wrexham Bradley Raiders.
He was introduced to Wheelchair Rugby League at the launch of North Wales Crusaders in 2013 and subsequently became a player for the club, alongside his son Harry.
A year later, Jones became assistant coach of North Wales Crusaders wheelchair before taking over as head coach in 2017, and later chairman, a position he still holds.
In 2014, he was appointed assistant coach of Wales Wheelchair ahead of the Four Nations campaign, then in 2016, he was appointed head coach and went on to guide the national side to five successive Celtic Cup victories, as well as coaching Wales in the 2017 and 2022 World Cups.
In 2023, Jones was appointed Head of Wheelchair Rugby League in Wales, with Alan Caron taking over as Wales head coach. Jones remained involved with the international programme as team manager and subsequently pathway manager.
He has also played a key role in the wider administration of Wales Rugby League, working on player registration, governance and disciplinary matters, while also serving as a first aider and first aid tutor for WRL.
Jones will travel to Australia later this year with the Wales Wheelchair Rugby League team for the 2026 World Cup, where he will serve as welfare officer.
Speaking following his election, Jones said: “I already volunteer in various roles within WRL, but I want to help get some of the minority groups heard, and one of the best ways to do this would be to join the board.
“I hope to bring all my knowledge on disabilities and inclusion to help us develop more inclusive strategies for the future of Rugby League in Wales. I also have a very organised way in which I do things and hope this will help when I’m fulfilling my role on the board.”
Wales Rugby League chairman James Davies welcomed the appointment.
“Stephen has given an enormous amount to Rugby League in Wales over many years, and his appointment as Honorary Secretary is a natural progression for both him and the organisation,” he said.
“As a board, we have thought carefully about achieving the right balance in terms of experience, skills and representation from across Wales. Stephen brings an important connection with North Wales through his work with the Crusaders wheelchair side, alongside his extensive involvement in the international game. That perspective will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the links between the game in North and South Wales and ensure we are truly representing Rugby League across the whole country.
“His contribution to wheelchair Rugby League, both as a coach and administrator, has been outstanding, but his experience goes much wider. He has a strong understanding of governance, player welfare, registration and the day-to-day administration of our sport.
“I’ve worked closely with Stephen on several governance audits over the years, and he certainly sets the benchmark. More importantly, he continues to challenge all of us to improve our standards and the way we operate. Bringing that knowledge, scrutiny and experience onto the board is a natural transition.
“Stephen is also passionate about inclusion and making sure people throughout the game have an opportunity to have their voices heard. As we continue to develop Rugby League across Wales, having that understanding of the game from grassroots and club level through to the international stage will be hugely valuable.
“We’re delighted to welcome Stephen to the board as Honorary Secretary.”
