Will Price has announced that he will retire from rugby at the end of this season.
Will played his first game for Aberavon on the 29th April 2009 against Llanelli at the Talbot Athletic Ground.
He has played 229 times for Aberavon (as of 8/4/22) and has scored 35 tries.
Wizards Head Coach Jason Hyatt spoke very highly of Price.
“I have had the privilege of coaching Will for many years and had the pleasure of watching him develop into an outstanding Wizard, on and off the field.
Will is a player who I often ask for advice, he is honest and knows how to bring the best out of everyone around him, a very special talent”.
During nearly 13-years of service at Aberavon, he has represented Wales Sevens on the International Sevens Series, a fine achievement, however, what is very fitting for Will Price is during his first full season at Aberavon he reached the cup final against Pontypridd, now he is to finish his Aberavon career in yet another cup final against Newport on April 24th.
“He’s the type of player you’d rather play with than against”
Ashley Beck
Ex-Wizard and former Captain Ian Moore is full of admiration for Price.
“For me, Will should go down as one of the greats who has put on the Aberavon jersey.
What a class player! So physical and skilful, someone who I would always want on my side, underrated by many, but those that were lucky enough to play alongside him knew how talented he was.
It was an absolute honour to play with you mate and all the best in your retirement”.
Former team-mate and friend, Welsh International Ashley Beck added.
“William is a great friend of mine and it was awesome to play with him down at the Wizards for some time.
He’s the type of player you’d rather play with than against. I had some great memories on and off the field with will him and hope he gets the send-off he deserves because he’s put so much into the Wizards jersey for so many years.
Congratulations on an awesome career mate! Glad I got to share the field with you”.
“Will should go down as one of the greats who have put on the Aberavon jersey.”
Ian Moore
Will is of course an exceptional talent when it comes to rugby, a player who has the ability to carry across the gain line, to tackle his opponents ferociously and to distribute well and offload in the tackle as good as any – yet, the person behind the rugby ability is what his peers admire most.
“For all young players searching for answers on how to achieve their ambitions, he is an ideal role model. He keeps himself in perfect physical condition, his work rate is first class and most importantly, he’s a real nice guy.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Will’s family, especially Becky, Mia & Sofia for their support. Having the support of family & loved ones is so important for all young players to develop and Will has obviously been very fortunate to have such strong support”, added Hyatt.
Price will play his last home game at the Talbot Athletic Ground on Saturday 9 April against Llandovery.
Statement from Will Price.
It has been a privilege to play for Aberavon and I’m very proud to have represented the club for over 12 years and also captain the side too.
Aberavon is a great club filled with amazing people and I just want to say thank you to each and everyone who have allowed me to be a part of it.
As a club we’ve had many highs and lows but all are great memories which I will always be thankful for, as well as all the friendships I’ve made on the way.
It is a hard decision to make and one I did not rush into making, but now I can look forward to spending more time with my Wife and two girls.
Thank you once again to all. I will most definitely be down supporting the club and the boys next season.
Will
