Latest news with #Rees-Zammit
Wales Online
a day ago
- Sport
- Wales Online
Wales international blasts Louis Rees-Zammit treatment and poses telling question
Wales international blasts Louis Rees-Zammit treatment and poses telling question Louis Rees-Zammit is forging a path in the NFL now Louis Rees-Zammit appeared on the Stock to Rugby podcast (Image: Stick to Rugby/YouTube ) Former Wales hooker Scott Baldwin has criticised the treatment of Wales star Louis Rees-Zammit during the early days of his career. Former Wales wing Rees-Zammit was told he would never play for Wales by former Cardiff defence coach Richard Hodges when he was in the club's academy. The rest is history, with Rees-Zammit moving to England where he took the Gallagher Premiership by storm with Gloucester before winning 32 caps for Wales and touring South Africa with the British & Irish Lions in 2021. Rees-Zammit sensationally quit rugby union for a shot at the NFL early last year but things could have been very different for the 24-year-old. Baldwin, who is now head coach of Super Rygbi Cymru club Bridgend, took to Instagram to criticise Cardiff's approach to Rees-Zammit in those formative years. "Happens too much, another example is Leigh Halfpenny," said Baldwin. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. "No coach at any age has the right to try and kill someone's dream! Article continues below "Imagine Louis Rees-Zammit and Pence (Halfpenny) had listened to those coaches! "I also got told by a coach while at Ospreys a similar thing, luckily he left before he could get rid of me." Rees-Zammit reposted Baldwin's post on his own Instagram reel. Former Wales and British & Irish Lions legend Halfpenny was not offered a contract by the Ospreys at a young age but luckily got picked up by Cardiff. If Rees-Zammit had listened to Hodges' opinion a successful career would have been flushed down the toilet before it had even began. The Jacksonville Jaguars star appeared as a guest of the latest episode of The Overlap's Stick To Rugby podcast, where he spoke about the period prior to him receiving his first international cap. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here. Rees-Zammit was asked about how he signed for Gloucester's academy from Cardiff Blues (as they were known at the time, now Cardiff Rugby). The winger explained that having gone through the system at Cardiff Schools and Cardiff Blues under-16s, he came to the realisation he wanted to attend Hartpury College in Gloucester. However, the former Wales star claimed that Cardiff Blues gave him a stark ultimatum: "If you go across the bridge, you're not allowed to play for Cardiff." "I ended up just making the decision to leave Cardiff Blues," explained Rees-Zammit. Join WalesOnline Rugby's WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free "I went over to Hartpury College, and then within two weeks I had a trial at Gloucester, their academy. "Before that, when they ended up making the decision to leave Cardiff Blues and go to Hartpury, it was a tough decision, because there is one person that told me that I would never play for Wales." "That one person who told you that you would never play for Wales, have you seen them recently? Do you want to name and shame him now or not?" asked England legend Lawrence Dallaglio. Article continues below "It's Richard Hodges," answered Rees-Zammit. "He was obviously the Cardiff Blues head of academy at the time." "100% they were trying to scare me," he added. "They said it to me and my dad. I went to watch a Cardiff Blues game as a fan and he said that to me and my dad after. It kind of actually just put me off it, (I thought) I'm definitely going over there now now."
NBC Sports
4 days ago
- Sport
- NBC Sports
Louis Rees-Zammit will try the NFL for another year or two before returning to rugby
When Welsh rugby player Louis Rees-Zammit announced last year that he would move overseas to try to make it in the NFL, he was taking a big risk by giving up stardom at home for a sport he had never played before. So far it hasn't paid off, but he says he's giving himself a year or two to keep trying. Rees-Zammit originally went to the Chiefs and played running back for them in the preseason last year, then was cut by the Chiefs and signed to the Jaguars' practice squad as a wide receiver. He's still in Jacksonville and said he thinks he's got some more time to figure out the American game. 'International players get probably two to three years to make it in the NFL,' Rees-Zammit told 'So I wanted to do it at a time where I maybe could come back to rugby. I'm 24 now, probably got one to two more years to try and make it depending on how this year goes. I'll be 25, 26 when I go back to rugby. I like to think I can still play at the highest level.' Rees-Zammit said he thinks training in the NFL may prove to make him a better rugby player in the future. 'When I was playing rugby, I went to America twice to train and the things I learned there I knew straight away would help my game. Now, having two years of it, I think if I did have to go back I'll definitely be able to excel again,' he said. But first he'll try to excel in Jaguars camp, and hope they keep him around for the regular season.
Wales Online
4 days ago
- Sport
- Wales Online
Louis Rees-Zammit reveals shock England rugby approach after getting Wales ultimatum
Louis Rees-Zammit reveals shock England rugby approach after getting Wales ultimatum Former Wales star Louis Rees-Zammit has looked back at the formative years of his rugby career The former Wales rugby winger was approached by England before Wales. (Image: Stick To Rugby - YouTube ) Louis Rees-Zammit has revealed he was told he would never play for Wales and was approached by Eddie Jones to play for England. The Jacksonville Jaguars star appeared as a guest of the latest episode of The Overlap's Stick To Rugby podcast, where he spoke about the period prior to him receiving his first international cap. Rees-Zammit is going into his second season of American football, and has been in the UK doing work for Jaguars in London ahead of their return there next season. He also took the opportunity to chat with Tom Shanklin, Katy Daly-McLean and Lawrence Dallaglio about his journey so far. Rees-Zammit was asked about how he signed for Gloucester's academy from Cardiff Blues (as they were known at the time, now Cardiff Rugby). The winger explained that having gone through the system at Cardiff Schools and Cardiff Blues under-16s, he came to the realisation he wanted to attend Hartpury College in Gloucester. However, the former Wales star claimed that Cardiff Blues gave him a stark ultimatum: "If you go across the bridge, you're not allowed to play for Cardiff." "I ended up just making the decision to leave Cardiff Blues," explained Rees-Zammit on Stick to Rugby. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. "I went over to Hartpury College, and then within two weeks I had a trial at Gloucester, their academy. Article continues below "Before that, when they ended up making the decision to leave Cardiff Blues and go to Hartpury, it was a tough decision, because there is one person that told me that I would never play for Wales. "But I sat down with my family and told them I want to go to Hartpury because of how well known it is for producing great players and a good education as well. "I went to do A-levels there, and after a day I knew all the rugby players had done a BTEC, so instantly I switched to do a BTEC, which is quite funny, because all of my classes were with all the rugby boys, so you can imagine what the rooms were like. The studying in the library was not really there, we were just fully focused on our rugby at that point. Two weeks in, I joined Gloucester, did the academy." "That one person who told you that you would never play for Wales, have you seen them recently? Do you want to name and shame him now or not?" joked Dallaglio. "It's Richard Hodges," answered Rees-Zammit. "He was obviously the Cardiff Blues head of academy at the time." "You could do the Pretty Woman: *huge mistake*!" joked Dallaglio. "I suppose the theory behind it is that they really wanted you to stay and they were probably trying to scare you a little bit," clarified Shanklin. "100% they were trying to scare me," answered Rees-Zammit. "They said it to me and my dad. I went to watch a Cardiff Blues game as a fan and he said that to me and my dad after. It kind of actually just put me off it, (I thought) I'm definitely going over there now now." "Everyone wants you to be a rugby player but they shouldn't take away your education at the same time," explained Dallaglio. "Especially in rugby clubs, and they're no different in England as well, by the way. They want you to spend more time around the first team if you're talented, like you are, and you're young. So they say: 'Don't worry, we'll support your education', but they're not really thinking like that to be honest with you. What they should say is: 'Carry on getting your degree, finish it, and when you're ready, we'll have you'." Also on the show, Rees-Zammit revealed that it was actually former England boss Eddie Jones who first enquired about his international eligibility, following a string of impressive performances for Gloucester in the English Premiership. "Actually, Eddie Jones rang me first to play for England," revealed Rees-Zammit. "I think Wales found out about that and within a day I had (Wayne) Pivac call me." "Was this in the Six Nations?" asked Shanklin. "Yes," confirmed Rees-Zammit. "It was more that I wasn't actually English-qualified, but Eddie Jones was asking if I was and if I wanted to be involved, because I actually did an England camp when I was younger." "How long have you been at Gloucester at that point?" asked Dallaglio. "Two years," answered Rees-Zammit. "So it was only one more year and you would have been English-qualified?" asked Dallaglio. "Yes, it was," responded the Welshman. Rees-Zammit also went on to explain that he did a full Wales campaign without playing a single minute. During the 2020 Six Nations, which the pandemic impacted, he was with the squad for the entirety of the tournament, but was not selected by Pivac. "I never got picked, I never got capped," he added. "I would have still been 18 so I would've been one of the youngest players and it didn't turn out to happen. But then in the autumn internationals, played France away and that was my debut for Wales." Article continues below If you would like to watch the full episode of Stick To Rugby, click here.
Wales Online
21-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Louis Rees-Zammit puts deadline on NFL dream as he plans return to rugby
Louis Rees-Zammit puts deadline on NFL dream as he plans return to rugby The former Wales rugby star faces a critical summer but believes he can return to rugby and excel once again Louis Rees-Zammit of Wales (Image: 2023 World Rugby ) Louis Rees-Zammit has admitted the clock is ticking on his NFL career as he revealed he plans to return to the highest level of rugby if the next year doesn't work out. The Welshman faces a crucial summer in his American Football journey as he bids to make the 53-man roster at Jacksonville Jaguars after spending last year on the practice squad. He has now put a deadline on his NFL chances, admitting this year will likely make or break his dreams. He will spend the summer trying to impress in pre-season training and matches but knows if he gets cut by the Jaguars, as he was by Kansas City Chiefs, it could all be over. And, for the first time, he has talked in detail about his plan to return to rugby in the next couple of years if things don't work out. He told talkSport: "International (NFL) players get probably two to three years to make it in the NFL. "I was 22 when I left. So I wanted to do it at a time where I maybe could come back to rugby. "I'm 24 now, probably got one year, or one to two more years to try and make it, depending on how this year goes. I'll be 25, 26 going back to rugby. I like to think I can still play at the highest level." Article continues below Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Louis Rees-Zammit in training on June 12 (Image: ©Icon Sportswire ) Rees-Zammit, who is in the UK to promote the Jaguars' games in the London later this year, has previously declined to contemplate his NFL mission ending, but knows time is running out as he faces a decisive summer. The former winger is currently a designated International Player Pathway player on the Jags' books and faces three potential outcomes at the end of this summer. He will either make the 53-man roster for next season, meaning his NFL career can really take off, or he could remain a practice squad player for the season as he continues to develop and hope for a breakthrough. The third option could see him cut by the Florida outfit. While he could then be signed up by another team, that scenario is perhaps unlikely and could herald his return to rugby. When he does return, he believes he will come back a better player. "I've learnt so many different movements that I never even thought about in rugby," Rees-Zammit said. "The way you train is so much different, but I think that would help me massively. "When I was playing rugby, I went to America twice to train and the things I learned there I knew straight away would help my game. "Now, having two years of it, I think if I did have to go back I'll definitely be able to excel again." Rees-Zammit hopes to prove himself during the Jaguars' pre-season schedule, which begins on August 9 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Article continues below They then play the New Orleans Saints and the Miami Dolphins later in August before the final call is made on the 53-man squad on August 26.
Wales Online
17-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Today's rugby news as Rees-Zammit makes bold summer call and star says being in Wales was 'pretty tough'
Today's rugby news as Rees-Zammit makes bold summer call and star says being in Wales was 'pretty tough' The latest rugby news from Wales and around the world Former Wales winger Louis Rees-Zammit (Image: Sky Sports ) Here are your rugby headlines for Tuesday, June 17. Rees-Zammit: Lions will win Test series 3-0 Louis Rees-Zammit believes the British & Irish Lions will trounce Australia 3-0 in the Test series this summer. The former Wales wing, who went on the Covid-hit 2021 tour to South Africa, believes the calibre of the Lions players will be too much for the Wallabies and they will comfortably overpower their opposition. Rees-Zammit admitted during an interview with Sky Sports that he misses playing rugby for Wales and would doubtless have been a contender for this summer's tour had he not quit the sport for a shot at the NFL last year. But, speaking four years on from his Lions experience, the Jacksonville Jaguars player predicted: "I personally think they will 3-0 them. But I know Australia in Australia will be tough, but I think there's enough talent in that Lions squad that it will be too much for Australia. "But we will see. I think there will be some great Tests." There are only two Welshmen on this summer's tour to Australia, Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams. And Rees-Zammit believes Morgan has got a real shot at starting the Test matches, although his fellow '21 tourist, Tom Curry, will provide stern competition for him. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. Article continues below "The likes of Jac Morgan has got a chance," he said when asked who he thought would be in Andy Farrell's Test team. "Tom Curry, I was with him in 2021 and I think he has got a really good shot to start. "Then you've got someone like Tommy Freeman who has had an amazing year for Northampton and England, he will be a great threat on the wing. It's a strong team, everyone is going to be great additions this year. I'm excited to see how they do in Australia. "Because of the tour in 2021, me, Tom Curry and Marcus Smith were like the younger group on that tour, we had a great bond so I will definitely be wishing those boys luck. "Tomos Williams is my former team-mate and he has had an amazing year. And Jac Morgan as well. I'm really looking forward to seeing how those boys will thrive in Australia." Williams: Being in Wales was pretty tough Lions scrum-half Tomos Williams says the last couple of years has been "pretty tough" on the international front. Williams is just one of two Welshmen in the Lions squad for this summer's tour - and indication of how difficult things have been at Test level for Wales over the past two seasons. Williams' form for club side Gloucester has remained constant though and his inclusion in Andy Farrell's touring party is well deserved, despite Wales' woes. "Being in Wales was pretty tough, especially over the last couple of years playing internationally," said Williams. "I think the move to Gloucester helped me a lot and given me a break from the international rugby as well and it is nice to go back there. "The way we played suited me and I have got a lot to thank Gloucester for." Williams added that he hoped to do his country proud Down Under, alongside Morgan. "I try not to put too much pressure on myself, but it is just me and Jac [from Wales]," added Williams. "I don't want to speak for him but we are so hugely proud. "It is such an honour to represent your country and the Lions and hopefully we can do them proud." Sexton quizzed on Lions squad make-up Johnny Sexton says he wasn't surprised by the record number of Irish players selected for the upcoming British and Irish Lions tour — and believes head coach Andy Farrell's decisions are fully justified. Farrell, who has also led Ireland since 2019, initially named 15 Irish players in his 38-man squad for the 2025 tour of Australia, with Connacht prop Finlay Bealham added last week following Zander Fagerson's withdrawal through injury. Among the Ireland contingent are 12 Leinster players, three from Connacht, and one from Munster, making up a significant portion of the squad. While some have questioned the imbalance, Sexton pointed to Ireland's recent track record as ample justification. 'Ireland have done pretty well over the last few years — winning the [Six Nations] championship last year, the Grand Slam the year before,' said Sexton, now a kicking coach on Farrell's Lions staff, according to the BBC. He suggested that selection decisions often take a long-term view. 'With some players, coaches look at form over eight or nine years. It's not just about playing well in one or two games during the Six Nations — sometimes you take a broader perspective.' Sexton also highlighted how familiarity with Farrell's coaching methods could have played a role. 'They know the way Andy coaches, they understand the system. It didn't surprise me. Historically, when a Welsh coach was in charge and Wales were doing well, the squad had a Welsh majority,' he added. 'I think it's the same here — the teams that performed best in the Six Nations got selected.' While some observers have raised concerns about perceived national bias, Sexton was philosophical. 'Everyone has their own opinion — that's the beauty of sport,' he said. 'You can go through the players and ask, 'Who exactly are you leaving out?' From what I've seen over the last three or four years, these players have performed consistently.' He also noted the strength of Ireland's performance against England in this year's Six Nations opener as an example of their high standards. Reflecting on the selection process, Sexton praised Farrell for his diligence and fairness. 'I've never seen such a thorough process. Every combination, every player was discussed in detail,' he said. 'Andy did all those players justice — he did the work, asked the right questions, and picked the squad he believes gives the best chance of winning the tour.' S4C land Lions TV coverage S4C will broadcast live free-to-air coverage of the opening match of the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, marking a historic first in partnership with Irish broadcaster TG4, it has been announced. The two public service broadcasters will collaborate to bring fans the Lions' first-ever fixture in Ireland — a clash against Rugby World Cup semi-finalists Argentina at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on Friday. S4C's coverage will be fronted by Sarra Elgan, joined by former Lions and Wales internationals Ken Owens, Jamie Roberts and Mike Phillips, who will provide expert insight and analysis across the channel's platforms. In addition to the opening fixture, S4C will also offer same-day highlights of every game throughout the tour, bringing key moments and expert reaction to viewers each evening. While Sky Sports retains exclusive live rights for the full tour, this new free-to-air partnership offers fans free access across the UK and Ireland. A post-match vodcast will also be available after each game in Australia on S4C Clic, BBC iPlayer, and S4C's YouTube channel, hosted by Elgan and the pundit team, offering in-depth reaction, discussion, and behind-the-scenes content. S4C's head of sport, Sue Butler, added: 'We're delighted to bring free-to-air live coverage of the Lions' opening match to audiences in Wales and across the UK. This historic fixture in Dublin is a fitting way to begin what promises to be an exciting summer of rugby on S4C.' S4C will also broadcast the second Test of Wales' tour of Japan on 12 July. Welsh and English commentary will be available for the Lions v Argentina fixture, with Welsh commentary also available on all highlights programming. Former Llanelli captain dies The Scarlets have announced the passing of former Llanelli captain Aubrey Gale. Article continues below The former forward, who notched up almost 200 games for the West Walian outfit, has passed away at the age of 89. "We are saddened to hear that former Llanelli captain Aubrey Gale has passed away at the age of 89," the Scarlets wrote in a statement. "Aubrey played close to 200 matches for the club between 1956 and 1964, leading the side for the 1961-62 season. "A versatile forward, who played in the back row, second row and front row, he appeared against the touring South African, Australian and New Zealand sides during his career. "The thoughts of everyone at the Scarlets are with Aubrey's family and friends at this sad time." The Scarlets' supporters' X account added: "Sad news…Aubrey was our oldest living Scarlets captain until his passing. Our thoughts and condolences go to his family & friends."
