Horace Phillips (1928-2009) Swansea and Welsh International Rugby player/former pupil of Dynevor
School (1941-48)
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Horace made his debut for the All Whites in the 1950/51 season, he played a total of 179 games and scored 53 tries. He also gained a Wales cap when they beat France 9-5 at St Helen’s ground before a capacity crowd of 53,000 in 1952. He played on the wing for Swansea when they famously drew 6-6 against the All Blacks in 1953. He toured with the All Whites on their ground-breaking tour of Romania in 1954 and stood in temporarily as captain during the 1955/56 season for injured Billy Williams; he retired from playing in 1956. Horace worked as a teacher at Martin Street School in Morriston before serving as head teacher at Waunarlwydd Primary School between 1973 and 1982. A spokesman for Swansea RFC said: “Horace will be missed at the post-match gatherings in the St Helen’s lounge where he was always ready with a good story and encouragement for younger players. He was active with the club in an administrative form long after his playing days were over, as well as in coaching young players in the Swansea setup. In the club’s centenary season of 1973/74 he was entrusted with guiding the newly-formed Former Players Association through its infancy into the strong organisation it is today.” Long-time friend David Price, from Blackpill, said Mr Phillips had played during an era of great Welsh sides and players, including Ken Jones, Bleddyn Williams, Lewis Jones and Jack Matthews. “Horace was a very good wing and a loyal servant to the club, he would have had many more caps in today’s rugby given the placements and number of fixtures played.” |
1941 Reunion Supper Friday November 1st 1991 – Held at the Hospitality Suite of the Swansea Cricket. Photograph submitted by Alan Hickman. Horace is seated on the right.
See also TOD no 3