The 33-year-old has called time on his rugby career
Aberavon legend Rowan Jenkins has announced he is retiring from rugby.
Jenkins has called time on a career that had seen him rack up 342 appearances for the Wizards, having made his debut over 10 years ago. The 33-year-old has, over the years, established himself as a central figure at the club, and also one of the best players in Wales outside of the professional game.
As a player, Jenkins was known as a powerful presence in the front row who “terrified opposition scrums,” according to his coach. After making a single appearance for the Ospreys his reputation even saw him dip back into the professional game in somewhat unusual circumstances a few years ago, while working as a groundsman.
In 2021, Cardiff, decimated by quarantine issues on the back of the Covid pandemic, were forced to call on a number of academy players and semi-pros for what was arguably their toughest test in years in the form or Toulouse in the Heineken Cup. Join WalesOnline Rugby’s WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free
Ex-New Dock Stars and Felinfoel RFC product Jenkins took the call, not just for that fixture but also for the following weekend’s clash with Harlequins at the Stoop.
Rowan Jenkins in action for Cardiff against Toulouse(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency )
His brief exploits for Cardiff seemed to really catch the eye of many in the game, including Adam Jones, who was scrum specialist at Quins at the time.
“I thought he did really well,” said Jones at the time.
“It’s tough to step up from club rugby (in Wales) to face Toulouse and then us.
“But Rowan and the other boys did themselves proud.
“They showed they could have a crack at this level. Given their inexperience relative to ours, I thought they had plenty to be pleased about.”
Commenting on Jenkins and his decision to retire, Aberavon Head Coach, Jason Hyatt said: “Rowan is, without doubt, one of the finest players to ever wear the Aberavon shirt.
“Rowan earned a reputation as one of the most powerful scrummaging loose head props in Wales , and Im sure there are many tight heads out there who will sleep better knowing Rowan has hung up his boots.
“Rowan’s consistency, loyalty, and leadership over the years have made him a true icon of the club.342 appearances is a phenomenal achievement, and we are forever grateful for everything he has given to the Wizards. We wish him all the very best in his retirement and hope to see him around the Talbot Athletic Ground for many years to come.”
In a statement, Jenkins himself said: “As Aberavon’s season draws to close, sadly so has my time at the club also. Having some serious conversations this year, it was going to be my last anyway but injury called time sooner than hoped and with that not the on field ending I’d have liked.
“I’m proud to say that pretty much my whole senior career was at Aberavon Rugby after being selected from Felinfoel R.F.C where I enjoyed my youth Rugby and also my first season of senior rugby which definitely provided an insight of what was to come upfront.
“I’m now looking forward to spending time with my biggest supporter of all Aimee and the family, and hopefully enjoy watching Aberavon as their new exciting, young and talented group of players continue their journey and keep gaining momentum.”
