Crumlin RFC have warned other clubs to remain vigilant after rivals Trinant pulled out of the WRU leagues after more than 100 years.
Division 5 East club Trinant made the announcement last week, citing ongoing difficulties in attracting players as the reason. They added they hope to return in the future but the priority right now is to rebuild the team and organisation as “stronger and more sustainable”.
Trinant’s withdrawal and appeal
Trinant are now appealing to former players, members and associates to reconnect with the club and help put it back on track. They also insisted the Welsh Rugby Union must restructure the community game, claiming the “increasing demands and bureaucracy” from the governing body has made life harder.
Upon announcing they would pull out of Division 5 East, they thanked those who have continued to support them in recent times.
“This has not been an easy decision,” read a statement from Trinant RFC last week. “Due to ongoing challenges both on and off the field, we feel this is the most responsible step for the club at this time.
“We are absolutely gutted that over 100 years of history — built by our fathers, grandfathers and forefathers — has come to an end for now. Rugby has been at the heart of Trinant for so long and its absence is going to leave a massive hole in our community.
“As a small group of old-school rugby volunteers, the increasing demands and bureaucracy from The Welsh Rugby Union have only made an already difficult situation harder.
“To assist with reintroducing rugby in Trinant, we are appealing to all past players, recent players, members and associates to reconnect with the club. Without a bigger input both on and off the field, the task of bringing rugby back to Trinant will be much more difficult.
“We would like to thank every player, coach, volunteer, and supporter who has stuck with us through thick and thin, especially over the last few tough seasons. Your commitment has meant everything.
“We hope to see everyone back together in the not too distant future to bring rugby back to Trinant and put our little village back on the map again where it belongs and deserves to be.”
Crumlin’s warning to other clubs
Now local rivals Crumlin have warned that other clubs must remain vigilant, saying Trinant’s situation is a reflection of rugby in Wales.
“Crumlin Rugby Football Club is disappointed that Trinant RFC will not complete its fixtures for the 2026–27 season,” read a statement from the club’s committee. “Although Crumlin RFC and Trinant RFC have been fierce rivals over many decades, the two clubs have always shared mutual respect.
“Many players have represented both clubs, and lasting friendships have formed. Trinant RFC’s current situation reflects the wider decline in rugby participation, particularly in the Gwent valleys, and is a reminder that all clubs must remain mindful of the future.
“Many players who began their rugby careers at Trinant RFC, and within the wider community, have gone on to play at first-class level, including captaining prestigious teams. Some former Trinant players have also represented Wales and the British and Irish Lions.
“Crumlin RFC hopes Trinant RFC can reform and return to playing rugby in the 2027–28 season.”
Trinant say they are hopeful of returning in the future, following their decision last week.
