Men's Rugby

Hugh Gustafson, Rugby Performance Manager

Hugh manages and contributes to the strategic direction, leadership and oversight of performance rugby at Swansea University. Hugh delivers continued success in BUCS and Varsity competitions, whilst cultivating a high-performance rugby culture and environment. He ensures a clear and robust pathway into the professional game and to international rugby representation across both the men’s and women’s rugby performance programmes. Hugh is an Ospreys academy skills coach and head coach for Swansea University and Swansea RFC. He is a former front-rower who has played for Ospreys, Dragons and Wales Under-20s.

Assistant coaches:

• Joe Thomas, Attack / Backs Coach

Joe has gained valuable rugby experience through playing for Ospreys/Leicester tigers/dragons and has been part of the age grade coaching staff in the Ospreys.

• Lloyd Evans, Defence / Skills Coach

Lloyd has played for the Ospreys and gained Honors playing for Wales 7s. Lloyd has been involved in age grade coaching and Gen 7s Sports Academy.

• Chris Thomas, Strength & Conditioning Coach

Chris was a former rugby player for Swansea RFC and Llanelli RFC. He has been coaching for over four years for the likes of Swansea RFC, Ospreys age grade and Swansea Harriers.

How many times does the High Performance rugby team train a week?

In pre-season, the squad trains four days a week, including strength and conditioning (S&C) training. In season, the squad trains three times a week, including three S&C sessions. All sessions in season are carried out pre or post lecture times.

What league does the first team play in?

The first team plays in the Bucs Super Rugby, which is the highest standard of men’s university rugby.

How does the S&C provision work?

We have a lead S&C coach who designs individual programmes to the needs of the individual and squad.  We also use Teambuilder so that we can send and update programmes remotely to players. This allows players to have the flexibility to train around studying and lectures. 

Where does the first team play? 

The first team plays at St. Helen's Rugby and Cricket ground 

Are there trials to be involved in the HPG squad?

There are no direct trials, but you can email your rugby cv and footage to our High Performance Manager. Any questions or queries will be answered directly.