BUILTH Wells High School remains on course for silverware with a host of its rugby sides in the latter rounds of national competitions.

The school has built on the success of last year under the tutelage of school rugby development officer John Bowen whose coaching has inspired the school sides.

Builth Wells were crowned county champions at Year 7, 8 and 9 level with each side progressing to the national finals.

The Year 7s represented the school in the Blues Cup Finals Day at Pontypridd’s Sardis Road and beat Tonyrefail and Cowbridge before going out in the semi-final to Bryn Celynnog of Beddau.

The Year 8s overcame Croesyceiliog in the last 32 of the Welsh Cup and prevailed 27-15 in a thrilling encounter in Cwmbran to book themselves a home clash with Preseli of Pembrokeshire in the last 16.

Meanwhile the Year 9s side welcomed Ebbw Fawr School to the Lant in horrendous conditions.

The young Bulls shone through the mudbath and their flowing style of rugby was rewarded with a thumping 54-0 victory to book a date with Rhymney Valley based Lewis High School in the last 16 of the Welsh Cup.

Meanwhile the school’s success on the rugby field has also included a growing culture of success in the girls game.

An increase in rugby participation opportunities saw the school provide five Year 11 players to the South Powys regional girls squad which travelled to Cardiff for the Blues Regional Cup.

The South Powys side exceeded all expectations at the Arms Park by winning the competition to book their place in the Welsh Finals at the Wern in Merthyr Tydfil on Wednesday.

Builth Wells High School spokesman Simon John praised the players for their commitment and representing the school with such distinction while also reserving special praise for development officer John Bowen.

“John Bowen is doing a fantastic job at Builth Wells High School.

“His professional approach and mentoring other coaches has brought a big smile back to the players and their parents.”