Jonathan Davies (rugby player born 1962)

Jonathan Davies, OBE (born 24 October 1962) is a retired dual-code rugby player, who represented Wales in both rugby union and rugby league. A goal-kicking backline player, he played his club rugby in Wales, England and Australia. Davies has since become a television rugby football commentator and media personality, in both the Welsh and English languages.

Jonathan Davies was born in Trimsaran, Carmarthenshire, the son of Diana and Len Davies, who worked in Trostre, Llanelli. He started his career in rugby union at amateur level with Trimsaran and was later recruited into rugby league by Jim Mills and Doug Laughton. He would later return to rugby union. Len also played for, and captained Trimsaran Rugby Club.

Davies started school at Trimsaran Primary School, where he was part of the Welsh medium class. His teacher Meirion Davies introduced him to rugby, and he started playing Sevens. Although he did not have the strong physique for the contact sport, his talent and flair for the game was recognised by many, including local great Carwyn James. He attended Gwendraeth Grammar School, where he met his first wife Karen Hopkins, who he married ten years later. In 1974 Davies played for the very first time at Cardiff Arms Park, when he was chosen for the West Wales Under 12s.

Age 17, Davies left school and became an apprentice painter and decorator. After developing at Trimsaran RFC, he was given a trial with Llanelli but was rejected. Neath gave him another chance and he signed with them in 1982, selected to play at fly-half.

After 35 games for Neath he was selected to play for Wales, against England at the Cardiff Arms Park. After scoring a try and a drop goal, Davies was named Man of the Match in the Welsh victory.