Ex-Wales star Warren now focused on developing the next centres of attention
THERE are countless people in Welsh rugby who would tell you Macs Page has a bright future in the game.
Dwayne Peel is a fan of the 19-year-old Scarlets centre, while he was one of 70-odd academy players invited into a training camp with Wales coach Warren Gatland earlier this week.
The fact he’s competing with Harri Ackerman and Louie Hennessey for a place in Wales U20s midfield, as well as Eddie James, Joe Roberts and Johnny Williams for a spot at the Scarlets, is only going to help him moving forward. Competition breeds success.
But there’s another centre who has already played a crucial part in the development of the young centre from Crymych.
Page won’t be the last to benefit, either.
Two years ago, Adam Warren was abruptly told there was no place for him at the Dragons.
It would signal the end of his professional career and caused a lot of anger among fellow professionals, given how late the decision was made just before the end of the season.
Warren was a Wales international, a popular figure among his peers and one of the most consistent performers at the Welsh regions for years.
In the end, as Welsh rugby began to grapple with the financial crisis enveloping the game, it counted for little.
It was a debacle that left him “emotional” and “annoyed” and led to calls for players to be treated better, and told sooner if they have a future or not.
“It was very late,” says Warren now, reflecting on his departure from Rodney Parade.
“I’ve been quite lucky since, but it was tough.
“It was before the last game for the Dragons, Dean Ryan had a chat with me. I’d guessed by this point that there was going to be nothing there for me.
“I did already start having a few conversations. You have to plan ahead a little bit. It was tough to take.”
Coming to, in his own words, “an acceptance” that he wasn’t going to remain in the professional game, he looked to the semi-professional level and the next step.
The model pro and one-cap Wales international, who became a fan favourite in Gwent, headed back to Llandovery - linking up with both the rugby club and the college.
Having started his career with the Drovers, making over 50 appearances for them before joining the Scarlets, it was the perfect move for him.
“When it came to the end of pro rugby, a few semi-pro clubs were interested but I knew where I wanted to be,” he admits.
“I knew the environment created would be fun and I’d enjoy it, starting bringing the other boys through.
“I found myself quite lucky that I’ve got a job with Llandovery College. I started off just coaching and learning a bit about teaching.
“I’m doing my PGC (Post Graduate Certificate in Education to attain qualified teacher status) this year. Going into next year, I’m going to be a qualified teacher.
“I’m really enjoying it because it’s