The Club was recently delighted to welcome Tara Williams from the Howdens Insurance group to the Clubhouse to present a commemorative plaque recognising one of Oakdale Rugby Club’s former players who went onto represent the British Lions in the 1959 & 1962 tours to New Zealand & Australia and South Africa, making four appearances. Hadyn Morgan joined the Club straight from school when he went to work at Oakdale Colliery. His performances did not go unnoticed and at the age of 18, he transferred to Abertillery Rugby Club eventually becoming one of their most celebrated players.

Although a reliable & dynamic player, with a heavy but clean tackle, Morgan suffered at the hands of the national selectors often dropped for players who never showed any international longevity. That being said, he did make 27 appearances for the national team. Originally a centre, he moved to wing forward when called up for National Service while playing for the Army where he was a Paratrooper. Hadyn often returned to the village to help out with training and was often a ‘guest’ referee at pre-season trial games which guaranteed a big crowd would come to watch (the referee!).

Oakdale RFC Vice Chairperson, Michelle Lord, commented ‘This is fantastic recognition for the unsung work community rugby clubs play in the development of young players who progress through the echelons of the local, regional and national rugby structures. Howdens’ understanding in this is very much appreciated and this plaque will compliment Hayden’s framed national jersey which he so kindly gifted to us.’

‘Whilst his rugby playing days were before our time, there are many stories in the Clubhouse of his ability, performances against touring national teams and his affection for the village he grew up in. We are grateful to Howdens Insurance Group for recognising the part our club has played in Hadyn’s career and hopefully we can produce future British & Irish Lions and welcome back Tara to the clubhouse.’