Joe Tomalin-Reeves will continue as club captain for the 2021/22 season.
A fiery flanker that leads from the front in his all action performances in ‘Blood and Black’ will be captain for his second season. Joe will will be amongst names such as Ian Moore, Morton Howells and Billy James as captain of this iconic club.
Looking forward ahead of the season Joe was asked if there is some work to do on bringing the players back together as a team.
“As crazy as it sounds, it feels like we have not been away from the environment. It has just been different. We had a fair few zoom meetings, we really stayed in touch with everyone and as a squad we thought that was very important. So when we came back, that would hold us in good stead and it truly has. Boys are excited,” Joe said.
18-months with no game, no training and wondering what will happen next must have had a significant impact on the players and the squad.
“We have to spin this whole situation around. Players who may have been carrying injuries have had time to recover, regenerate and prepare to go again,” added Joe.
Looking ahead to the season and its new format we asked Joe what are the expectations of the squad.
“The expectation every year is to win silverware, that is the same every year, it is no different. Our environment is extremely professional and there are players that drive standards hard, so there is really no reason why we cannot win the league, and more”.
“I cannot wait to see the supporters, before the game, after the game, and I speak for all of the squad on that.
It is hoped the Talbot Athletic Ground will be brimming full of supporters in their first league game against Llanelli. The support now is more important than ever.
“I cannot wait to see the supporters, before the game, after the game, and I speak for all of the squad on that. We are raring to go, through thick and thin, I cannot wait”
We have sadly lost a lot of supporters during COVID, with COVID and amongst other illnesses and we owe them really. We need to treasure every moment as a supporter and as a player,” commented the Captain.
Aberavon take on Ebbw Vale in their first preseason friendly at the Talbot Athletic Ground on Saturday 28 August, 1430KO. Entry is £3 donation to Aberavon RFC/ Maggie’s Swansea.