A BALA Rugby Club coach who won a prize at the BBC Cymru Sports Personality of the Year awards recently is now set to tackle her next challenge of becoming a midwife.

Tirion Thomas from Sarnau won the 'Arwr Tawel' (Unsung Hero) prize at the ceremony held virtually in December, thanks to her work in increasing participation in girls rugby in Bala.

The 19-year-old has also helped develop under 13’s, under 15’s and under 18’s girls sides at Bala Rugby Club, whilst also carrying out sessions for younger girls during the summer.

After those sporting successes, Tirion is now taking on another kind of challenge in life, as she studies midwifery at Swansea University.

the first-year student said: "It has been my ambition to be a midwife since I was very young.

“After giving my all to rugby for the past three years I knew this was the time to devote myself to my future career instead, so I've had taken a step back from my rugby commitments.”

However, Tirion insists that rugby is still an important part of her life, particularly during the pandemic.

“Finding a balance between my degree and my passion for rugby is essential. It allows me to do what I enjoy as well as helping with my mental health - something that is definitely important when completing a demanding course which brings its own challenges.”

Since moving to Swansea, Tirion has been training with the University rugby team, as well as providing support to Bala rugby club, who she has played for since she was 11.

Three years ago, when the girls team found itself without a coach, Tirion took over duties.

She hopes winning the prestigious award will help to draw further attention to the women’s game.