Our History

Croesyceiliog RFC was founded in 1881 and for obvious reasons, the side are known locally as the Cockerels, and it is the Cockerel that is depicted on the clubs crest. The club has played at several locations during their long history including at one point in a farm-field owned by Jack Walker, a former player, chairman and president of the club. But thanks to Torfaen Borough Council, the Cockerels have enjoyed the use of the excellent facilities at Woodland Road since the mid 60s before securing the lease for the ground recently.

During the early 1970s, the club was a very successful Junior Union Side, winning the Welsh Districts Seven-a-side. The club was recognised by the Welsh District Rugby Union and four of players won caps in internationals against Belgium. One of those players, Clive Burgess, went on to play for Ebbw Vale and provided the club with its greatest honour when he was selected to play for Wales and was later made a Life Member of Croesyceiliog RFC.

During 1975, under the chairmanship of Mr Jack Walker, the Rugby Club amalgamated with Croesyceiliog Cricket Club, and established headquarters at the cricket ground. In 1976, the club applied for, and was granted membership of the Welsh Rugby Union.

In May 2016 the team won the Ben Francis Cup for the third time after a gap of twenty-two seasons. Since entering the WRU league structure the club has played in the East divisions and the 1st XV is currently in Division 2 East of the National Leagues, although they will play in Division 1 East in the 2017/18 season having secured the Division 2 East title.

The club also fields a youth team and mini and junior teams from Under 8s to Under 16s, also confirming our policy of investing in young players to secure the future of the club.

The Club's Record Over The Last Few Seasons Is As Follows:

1978/79 - BEN FRANCIS CUP FINALISTS
1989/90 - BEN FRANCIS CUP FINALISTS
1991/92 - BEN FRANCIS CUP WINNERS
1993/94 - MONMOUTH COUNTY 2nd DIVISON CHAMPIONS
1993/94 - BEN FRANCIS CUP WINNERS
1998/99 - NATIONAL LEAGUE D5E CHAMPIONS
2015/16 - BEN FRANCIS CUP WINNERS

2016/17 - NATIONAL LEAGUE DIV 2 EAST CHAMPIONS