James came through the junior ranks at Dunvant playing all his formative years for the club. His family links with Dunvant come through his father Lee who played and coached the 1st XV at Dunvant.
Much has been made in the press, of the part in his success played by Cardiff’s coach, Dai Young, converting him to Number 8, however, Dunvant’s current Youth coach; who coached James for around 10 years; Rob Murphy, said “coming through the junior ranks we always saw James as an 8, and this is where he played most of his Dunvant rugby; and speaking to him recently, back row has always been his preferred position.” As those that have followed James through his career and seen him caped at age grade rugby, will know; if he gets his opportunity at this year’s 6 nations he will do Dunvant and his family proud.
Rob said, “I remember James being picked for Wales at under 16s, and being disappointed when he realised this would mean him missing the Dunvant 16s tour to Holland, however, the boys took with them a life size model of James complete with kit and mask, which went everywhere with them.”
Keep an eye on Dunvant’s current Youth squad over the next few weeks, and you may see a guest coach helping out.