A dedicated rower who represented Monmouth School for Boys on the international stage has secured a scholarship to one of the sport’s leading universities.

Iwan Hadfield was a rowing scholar at Monmouth and won a bronze medal for Great Britain at the 2019 World Junior Championships in Japan.

Now the 19-year-old has been offered a place at the University of California, Berkeley, where the rowing programme is one of the best in the world.

“I am delighted to have accepted a rowing scholarship to the University of California – a lovely way to finish off my gap year,” said Iwan, who hopes to enrol at the world’s number one public university next year.

“Firstly, I want to thank the boat club and all the teachers at Monmouth School for Boys for their support during my time there.

“Monmouth School for Boys Rowing Club has allowed me to row at the highest level possible, culminating in representing Great Britain at the World Junior Championships.

“More importantly, the school has continued to support me after I left last summer.

“Having taken the entrance exam for the University of California it was pleasing that the school aided me through the whole process.

“To be admitted to one of the top universities for rowing in the world is a very rewarding feeling.”

Iwan added: “I must also congratulate many of my team-mates from last year’s eight on also gaining places in very respectable universities – another great representation of the school boat club’s capabilities.”

Iwan learnt to row with Cardiff and Vale Schools Rowing Academy, before moving to Monmouth School for Boys on a rowing scholarship in the Sixth Form.

He gained selection for Wales at the Home International Regattas of 2017 and 2018 and represented Great Britain at the 2019 Munich Junior Regatta in Germany.

Iwan then won a bronze medal for GB, stroking the eight at the Junior World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

He has since coached at both Shiplake College and Henley Rowing Club and joined the Leander club in September.

Mr John Griffiths, Master in Charge of Rowing at Monmouth School for Boys, praised Iwan’s determination and dedication and said he was very proud of the teenager.

“Iwan consistently put in the hard graft both on and off the water throughout his whole time with us at Monmouth,” said Mr Griffiths.

“But what has been particularly special about Iwan is that he always supports the whole club – right from the junior rowers just starting out to the rest of his crew mates at the top level.

“He always has time for them and gives them such positive encouragement and support. This was true of his time in boarding too.”

Mr Griffiths added: “A rowing scholarship at the University of California, Berkeley, is a great reward for Iwan.

“We are looking forward to following Iwan’s future in California and wherever it may take him after that – we’re all very proud of him.”