Chris Cooper: Proud to Carry on the Heol-y-Cyw Legacy

“Rugby means a lot to me. It’s not just about playing a sport; it’s about the friendships, the memories, and the feeling of being part of something bigger than yourself.

“There’s a real sense of respect and togetherness in rugby, and that’s what makes it so special. It brings people together, and I think that’s one of the biggest reasons I’ve always loved being involved in the game.”

For Chris Cooper, rugby is more than a sport; it’s a way to connect, to be part of something bigger. The opportunity to play for community, for family, for Heol-y-Cyw.

Heol-y-Cyw

Heol-y-Cyw runs through Cooper’s blood; his father, Paul, played for the club, and now every Saturday Chris does the same. Running out with pride, ready to represent the village, you can tell the club means a tremendous amount to him, and for a special reason.

“Heol-y-Cyw means a lot to me, especially because of my family’s history with the club. The Cooper name has been part of Heol-y-Cyw for many years, with my dad, Paul Cooper, and my grandad, Cyril Cooper, both having been involved with the club.

“It’s really special to follow in their footsteps and represent the same club that has meant so much to them. Knowing that family history makes pulling on the Heol-y-Cyw shirt feel like more than just playing rugby. It feels like I’m carrying on something that started before me, while also having the chance to create my own memories along the way.”

What makes the club special

Spirit and heart are abundant when you enter the clubhouse. A sense of togetherness and family. For Cooper, that’s what makes the club so special.

“For me, it’s the family feeling and the history behind the club. With my dad and grandad both having been part of Heol-y-Cyw, it means a lot to follow in their footsteps and continue that connection.

“But that family feeling goes far beyond my own family. Heol-y-Cyw really is a family club. Generations of people have played, supported, volunteered, and helped keep the club going, and everyone seems to have their own connection to it.

“There’s a real sense of belonging. It’s not just about what happens on the pitch; it’s about the people, the friendships, the memories, and the history everyone contributes to. Being able to add my own chapter to the Cooper family’s connection with the club makes it even more special.”

With a strong connection to the club, Cooper will look to add another page to the story this season.

This season

Heol-y-Cyw enters this season ready for a new chapter. It is the club’s second year in Division One West Central. Cooper is excited for what’s to come.

“I’m really excited for the season ahead. We’ve got some really good youngsters coming through, which is a great sign for the future of the club.

“For a small club like Heol-y-Cyw, especially without a mini and juniors section, having young players coming through and helping to move the club forward is brilliant. It shows the hard work and commitment of everyone involved and how much people care about keeping the club going.

“Hopefully, we can build on last season, help the younger players develop and, most importantly, enjoy our rugby and represent Heol-y-Cyw with pride. I’m proud to continue the Cooper family’s connection with the club and hopefully play my own small part in its future.”

A new season is rapidly approaching as the team gets ready for the league opener against Builth Wells RFC.

For Cooper, representing the club is about more than simply pulling on the jersey. It is about pride, passion and giving everything for something that means so much to him. With a new season ahead, his story is ready for another exciting chapter.