A new book is set to celebrate Llandovery RFC's record-breaking 2023-2024 season.
Written by rugby journalist Huw S Thomas, "Blwyddyn Bythgofiadwy - A Chronicle of an Unforgettable Season" is a 192-page account of the club's achievements over the 2023-2024 season.
The book, which features a photo of club patron King Charles on the inside cover, details the Drovers' success in winning the WRU National Cup, topping the Indigo Premiership table, and clinching the Indigo Premiership play-off final with a 14-7 victory over Newport.
The keys to their success are described as 'excellent coaching, fine players, sound tactics, intelligence, adaptability, and bravery.'
The book provides a detailed account of all 29 games played, 27 of which were victories.
It includes contributions from Llandovery captain Jack Jones, coaches, committee members, and fans, as well as articles by TV commentator Phil Steele and British and Irish Lion Wyn Jones.
Mr Steele praises the club for offering the 'warmest welcome in the UK,' while Mr Jones reflects on his time at Llandovery, describing how the Premiership's toughening process paved the way to high honours.
The book also includes statistics, tables, and pen portraits of the Llandovery squad, revealing intriguing and often amusing facts.
Skipper Jack Jones, who missed the play-off final due to injury, shares his emotions watching the game from the side lines.
He said: "I saw the win over Newport from the touchline but I made every tackle, hit every ruck and maul, won every lineout ball, wound up the opposition, had my usual chat with the referee and nearly got sent off!"
The book also addresses points of contention, with Mr Thomas criticising the WRU for ignoring the game of 7s and the Scarlets for showing little interest in Llandovery’s best players.
The book concludes with a section on "Special Events During A Special Season," including Farmers’ Day, Ladies’ Day, Ad Clad Memorial Rugby Festival Day, and Drovers’ Cap Presentation Night, all accompanied by photos taken by Ian Williams.
The production costs of the book were covered by Risk Management and its director John Herring, with all proceeds going towards funding the new 3G pitch.
The book, priced at £20, will be on general sale in time for Christmas, with a launch taking place on November 23 after the Llandovery v Cardiff game.
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