Tributes have been paid to a much-loved and well-known rugby player from south Wales who has died.
Ryan Jones, 32, known to many as ‘Bonesy’, tragically died suddenly on Sunday, with the news sending shockwaves through the Welsh rugby community. The dad-of-three from New Tredegar was a player at Hollybush RFC, a referee on the weekends for the children’s section at Bargoed RFC and a coach at Pengam’s football club.
Sharing the tragic news, Hollybush RFC said: “It is with broken hearts that we share the news that we have lost another one of our own.
“Bonesy was more than a teammate. He was family, and our club will never be the same without him. Please bear with us as we find our feet. More will follow in due course.
“We love you brother.”
The loss is the second in just under two years for the rugby club after Mr Jones’ teammate, Lee David Southall, 36, collapsed during a training session with Hollybush RFC on June 11, 2024. Paramedics battled for nearly 45 minutes to save him but he died at the scene.
Chairman Tim Morris told WalesOnline: “Ryan joined Hollybush at the start of the 2017 season after the gentle persuasion of our club captain Tom Hancock, both having played mini and youth rugby together.
“For such a small guy he made a big impact on and off the field. His rugby ability got better year after year and his wickedness/off-field entertainment will stay with us forever.
“As the years went on he cemented his place as a regular starter and took over the role of backs captain up until the end of the 2024/25 season. At the end of that season, he informed us that due to other commitments with his three young boys he was taking a step back. Ryan still got to watch a few games this year and even helped us out on a few occasions, slotting in as if he had never been away.
“At the beginning of May this year, he joined us on our end of season tour to Ireland and was the life and soul of the weekend.
“The whole club, our players and supporters are devastated at the loss of another club legend.
“Our thoughts, hearts and prayers are with his family who will always be part of our Hollybush family. We hope everyone can keep them in their minds and also be respectful of their privacy at this time.”
Mr Jones was a well-known member of the community due to his own sporting exploits as well as his commitment to his children and their sports teams. He coached football and rugby and was a referee too.
Pengam Boys and Girls Club said Mr Jones “had the most infectious laugh and a heart bigger than most.”
Their statement said of Mr Jones: “You had a wonderful potty mouth, especially from the side of the pitch, and you often gave the opposition or the referee plenty to think about.
“You had a special way of bringing people together and making everyone feel part of the team. One of your most admired qualities.
“We hope your loved ones can find some comfort in knowing just how loved, respected and appreciated you were! You made such an impact on so many lives and those who had the pleasure of knowing you, were so very fond of you.
“Thank you for the memories, the laughter and your dedication. Thank you for the care you showed every child who came through our club. Your impact on Pengam Boys & Girls will never be forgotten. Rest peacefully, Bonesy.
“You will always be part of the Pengam Family.”
Bargoed RFC also issued a heartfelt tribute. It said: “He wasn’t just a parent in the group to our boys he was also one of our refs who took time on a Sunday for the boys. Bonesy was little in size but was a larger-than-life character, constantly laughing and full-on banter with anyone. Always willing to do anything for a laugh.
“From being with us in the club on Saturday night for presentation [evening] to no longer with us is what we are all struggling with.
“We send our condolences to your family and your three boys. RIP Bonesy, we are all truly going to miss you”.
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