TOM Williams is perhaps one of Powys' most successful rugby players.
The 27 year old from Montgomery is currently looking forward to his second year as a contracted Team GB Rugby Sevens player and aiming to etch his name in the history books.
The Cardiff based player is one of the players which formerly represented Wales before the merging of the national teams from Wales, England and Scotland to form a Great Britain side.
While such a merger would never be considered for other codes of rugby or football, the code of sevens rugby has benefited.
Williams said: "We all used to play each other as rivals when we were part of our national teams but we are team-mates now and we are all enjoying the higher expectations that come with representing Great Britain.
Tom Williams from Montgomery in action.
"We are expected not just to do well in tournaments but challenge for silverware and titles."
The main aim and ultimate dream is Olympics glory.
OTHER NEWS
- REVEALED: Plans for Powys power plant that could power thousand of homes
- Former Powys headteacher set to take on major running event
- Wine from a Powys area vineyard named as some of the UK's best
The next games will be held in Paris next year and Williams wants to be in top condition going into the tournament as Britain bid to challenge for honours.
Before then Williams will be targeting success at the World Series which starts in Dubai in December.
Further events will be held in South Africa, Australia, Canada, USA, Hong Kong, Singapore and Spain leading to June next year.
The tournament will take place over seven months and will consist of eight events with the final event holding the top eight-placed teams in a Grand Final event.
Williams helped Great Britain to a silver medal at the 2023 European Games in Poland.
"I am in my prime now at 27 and want to stay fit and injury free and ensure I can use my experience in the series ahead and the Olympics," said Williams who was born in Shrewsbury and attended Welshpool High School.
He represented Newtown Rugby Club before departing for Llandrillo College and then signed for the Ospreys where he made 10 appearances as well as earning under 20s caps.
However, the wing has never looked back after beginning his sevens career.
"The main difference between the seven and 15 man games is the speed," said Williams. "Sevens rugby is a lot quicker."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here