Rees taking route into coaching

FORMER Wales hooker Matthew Rees is taking his first steps into coaching.

Rees, who toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2009, is still playing with Cardiff Blues. But the 36year-old plans to stay in the game when he hangs up his boots and is assisting Justin Burnell as scrum coach at Pontypridd.

He will also work as forwards coach when the Blues Select XV begin their B&I Cup campaign next weekend against Bristol.

“I want to stay involved in the game in some capacity and Danny Wilson has given me the heads up to help out with Pontypridd this season,” said Rees.

“My priority is playing well for Blues. I’m not holding back and I still want to play as much as I can.”