Trailfinders Women can confirm that they have mutually agreed to part company with Director of Women’s Rugby Giselle Mather ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Giselle has been a hugely influential part of Trailfinders Women’s beginnings. She led the bid to enter Premiership Women’s Rugby, and from there, she began building the programme from scratch, which included recruiting a whole rugby squad and staff.

We were privileged to witness some magical moments with Giselle at the helm during the 2023/24 campaign. Amongst these were the club’s first-ever try, scored by Courtney Pursglove away at Harlequins; the club’s first-ever win in the PWR against Leicester Tigers; and our final game of the season against Quins, a 54-27 victory over our London rivals, which displayed the attacking style of rugby that the team is known for.

Giselle Mather said: “I am immensely proud to have built the foundations for future success for Trailfinders Women. Building an elite premiership side from scratch has been an incredible project, and leading it has been an honour.

“Due to a difference in philosophy for our second season, we have reached a mutual decision to part ways. I would like to acknowledge the huge privilege it has been to work with the amazing and talented athletes and committed staff at the Club. I am proud of the momentum we have built during our inaugural season. I wish all those involved every success going forward.”

Managing Director Ben Ward: “I would like to thank Giselle Mather for how hard she has worked for Trailfinders Women and what she has accomplished. Building a new team is incredibly hard, and she led us forward in our first season in the PWR.

“Our style of rugby represents the Trailfinders way and has been enjoyable to watch. She is written into the history books at Ealing Trailfinders and Trailfinders Women. We wish Giselle the best for the future.”

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Ealing Trailfinders preseason friendly against Hartpury will now be played at Trailfinders Sports Club, the match was originally due to be played at Hartpury University.

The date and kick-off time will remain the same, Friday 13th September at 19:00.

The match will form part of a doubleheader with Brunel University kicking-off against Hartpury University at 17:00.

Season ticket holders go free.

Adult tickets start from just £10 and can be purchased here.

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Ealing Trailfinders can announce that Welsh prop Brad Thyer has retired from professional rugby.

After a stellar decade-long career in Rugby, Thyer has decided to hang up his boots, having achieved a considerable amount in the game.

The 31-year-old came through the Cardiff Rugby Academy, representing Pontypridd RFC on loan during his developing years. He went on to play for Cardiff 92 times in his ten years of service there.

While in Wales, Thyer set up his blossoming coffee brand, Fat Dragon Coffee, with friend and fellow Welshman Dillon Lewis, meaning he was instantly named Head Barista when he moved to Ealing Trailfinders.

During his time in W13, Thyer struggled with injuries, representing Trailfinders on one occasion, but he added a huge amount to the team’s culture and is loved by everyone around TFSC.

After announcing his retirement, Thyer said: “I have been so grateful for the opportunity to play rugby as my job for the past 10 years. Growing up in the Rhondda Valley, it was always a goal of mine to play the sport I love for as long as I could, so to be able to call it a job has been a privilege.

“It’s impossible to thank Rhiannon, my Dad and the rest of my family enough for their immense sacrifices and support through all the injuries, ups, and downs that come with professional sports. Thank you to every player, coach, and supporter who has played a part in that journey.

“I look forward now to a new challenge, but will remain an avid supporter of Ealing Trailfinders, Cardiff Rugby and Pontypridd RFC.”

Director of Rugby Ben Ward said: “Brad has had a brilliant career in professional rugby and we have enjoyed having him during his time here. We wish him all the best in his future career and I hope he’ll keep supplying the lads with Fat Dragon Coffee, they can’t go without it!”

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Come and join us at Trailfinders Sports Club on Wednesday 14th August for the annual T20 cricket match between Trailfinders Rugby Academy and Ealing Trailfinders Cricket Club.

The match will be underway from 18:00, with men’s first team players in attendance.

Make sure you tuck into the BBQ and a grab a pint at the bar as you watch the match unfold.

There will also be a first opportunity to purchase the Brand New Men’s and Women’s 2024-25 Replica Home Shirt ahead of the new season.

Click here to purchase season tickets for the 2024-25 campaign

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