News

In the 42-19 win over Skewen lock forward Ben Cording made his 100^th 1^st team appearance for the Ath. In all he has played 120 senior games and crossed for 10 tries and 50 points. Ironically it was against Skewen he made his 100^th senior appearance and scored a try on that occasion.

Yesterday was only his 4^th appearance this season following a long recovery from a serious leg injury, and the Ath has missed his competitive spirit.

 He played two seasons in the 2^nd XV 2015-2017, before after impressing the 1^st XV coaches in preseason training and matches he became a regular 1^st XV player throughout season 2017-2018.  At the last Senior Presentation Night in June 2019 – before the pandemic Ben was the Nathaniel Players Player of the Season. A tribute that his fellow players rated him so highly.

He has a great physical presence and is very combative as well as an excellent ball carrier, and a reliable line out forward who is extremely mobile around the field. Ben wouldn’t be out of place in a future back row position.

Ben began his Ath journey at U9 level and then moved to Youth, where he played the 1^st & 3^rd season taking a break during the 2^nd year. He also had the honour of captaining the highly successful Brynteg Comprehensive side when in the 6^th form.

Forwards coach David Williams previously said” Ben has become the cornerstone of the pack. He shows great commitment to training and playing.”

Head Coach John Apsee added. “To play 100 1^st XV games is a huge achievement. Ben quickly became a well-respected and established player in the 1st team with his uncompromising style and ability. It is no surprise he has become a 1^ST XV, Centurion. He is a player who leads by example on both match days and during training sessions. Congratulations Ben.”

From Gerald Williams. “Well done Ben and what a great achievement in your playing career. Since I have been at the club Ben has been hard working to achieve certain goals. A very good trainer and works hard to improve his performance, which is typified in match conditions. Always consistent (if he stays on the field). Always a pleasure to work with and am sure the future will see Ben as another success story for the Ath. Congratulations Ben – well achieved.

Nathan Holman added “Congratulations to Ben on 100 1^st XV games. Ben is a massive part of our team and after being out with injury for a while it’s great to see him back in green and gold. Ben has a big part to play in this team over the next few seasons.”

Team Manager Paul “Papa” Hearne concluded. “Congratulations to Ben on 100 1^st XV Appearances. Ben is an established 1^st XV Second Row. A great clubman and role model for younger players. He is enthusiastic about playing and gives 100% each game. A great player for the Ath.”