This feature centres on the sporting greats that have come from Rydal Penrhos School throughout its illustrious history dating back to the 19th century.
Andrew Fenby
Andrew’s story since leaving Rydal Penrhos School has been a sensational one, which has resulted in him becoming a chartered accountant and embarking on a fantastic professional rugby career.
A talented individual who thrived across all areas of school life, Andrew’s journey has been a great source of inspiration for current pupils looking to follow in his footsteps, and he is set to continue influencing the domestic game in his new role as a sports agent.
Fenby, said: “One day I was plugging numbers into a spreadsheet and the next I was running out onto the pitch at Kingston Park alongside Jamie Noon and Carl Hayman for the Falcons.
“My career changed overnight, and my story is one that proves anything is possible when you apply yourself, work hard and seize every opportunity that comes your way.”
The former pupil also excelled at squash during his time at Rydal Penrhos, and earned national honours as part of the Wales U19 squad that competed at the World Junior Championships in Pakistan.
This earned him a squad bursary to the University of Newcastle, and following a stint with National League side Blacon where he scored 73 tries in 77 games, the Falcons approached him with a very enticing offer.
“After that, Scarlets offered me a contract and faced me with a choice between a nine to seven job or the chance to play for one of the Welsh regions at Scarlets. I knew I had to give it a go,” added Fenby.
“I was lucky to be at Parc y Scarlets when a number of the big-name Wales stars were emerging. The likes of George North and Liam Williams were coming through and when I realised a Wales cap wasn’t on the cards, I made the move to London Irish.”
After “returning on my own terms”, Fenby secured a job in the City with a sustainable investment fund set up by former United Stated vice-president Al Gore, before a swansong presented itself with a short-term deal at Saracens.
This has resulted in Fenby setting up his own rugby agency in Certo Management, which he described as “one of the greatest and rewarding” challenges of his career.
He has already played a pivotal role in a number of big moves from a playing perspective over the offseason, with client and Wales U20 international Sam Wainwright joining Saracens.
Andrew was the special guest at Rydal Penrhos’ annual Sports Awards Dinner last year, and he played a leading role in the school’s recent Vikings Rugby Reunion to celebrate the careers of Mike Leach and Phil Mather.
