Three students from NPTC Group of Colleges have showcased their footballing talents on the international stage, representing the Welsh Colleges against the Australian Schools at Park Avenue, Aberystwyth.
Despite a hard-fought match, Wales Colleges fell to a 3-1 defeat, with Ollie Anderson scoring the only goal for the home side. However, for students Griff Davies, Dylan Packer, and Rocco Dyer, the experience of playing international football was invaluable and a testament to their dedication and skill.
Newtown College sports student Griff Davies earned his first cap for the Welsh Colleges team, playing 60 minutes against a sharp Australian side. This match followed a successful campaign with Welsh Colleges, where Griff and his teammates secured a clean sweep in the Tri-Nations competition, defeating England Colleges (6-1), England Independent Schools (3-0), and Australia Schools (2-1).
Reflecting on his achievements, Griff said:
“I wouldn’t have gone to the trials without the College nominating me. The football training most days has helped me physically and technically, allowing me to step up to international football. The Welsh Colleges games have made me sharper as they are so intense. The other players are good lads and top-quality players. It took us a game to really get to know each other, but we’ve come together and performed well. The overnight stays were a great experience, giving me insight into professional football and being an elite athlete. I’m looking forward to the upcoming games with Welsh Schools and the possibility of playing in the Roma Caput Mundi Tournament in Italy.”
Neath College A Level student Dylan Packer played the full 90 minutes in his second international match for Welsh Colleges. Like Griff, he was part of the Welsh Colleges squad that dominated the Tri-Nations competition, missing only five minutes of football across the three victories.
Speaking about his international experience, Dylan said:
“I was hoping to attend the trials again this year after some disappointment last year. Training most days with my club and playing college football allows me to play at a high level with very little fatigue. The Welsh Colleges games have sharpened my skills as they are so intense. The players are top-quality, and knowing a lot of them from club football, it was easy to spark conversations and play with confidence. The overnight stays were a great experience, helping build chemistry with teammates. I’m thrilled to have been selected for the trip to Italy and hope to continue my performances to achieve good results there.”
Neath College carpentry student Rocco Dyer also featured in the match against Australia, playing the full 90 minutes. A key player for Briton Ferry, Rocco previously represented Wales in the Centenary Shield alongside Dylan Packer.
Reflecting on his latest international outing, Rocco said:
“It was a huge honour to wear the Wales shirt and play against such strong opposition. The intensity of the game was incredible, and I gave everything I had for the team. Having already played with Dylan for Briton Ferry and in the Centenary Shield, it felt great to be back on the pitch together. These experiences are unforgettable and push me to keep improving.”
Matt Jones is the Deputy Head of Sport and Public Services and had this to say about Wales Colleges:
“The standard of football across the Welsh Colleges is exceptionally high, and Dylan, Rocco and Griff have done incredibly well to not only make the squad but to make a significant impact in the fixtures played so far. As a department, we are immensely proud of their achievements and wish them the very best of luck in Italy.”
NPTC Group of Colleges are incredibly proud of Griff, Dylan, and Rocco for their international achievements. Their hard work, commitment, and talent have led them to this stage, and the colleges look forward to seeing them continue their success both on and off the pitch.
