Rugby legend Ken Owens is tackling a new challenge—this time, off the pitch and into the boardroom of Welsh football. But here's where it gets intriguing: the former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain, known for his leadership and 91 international caps, has joined the Football Association of Wales (FAW) as part of its newly formed strategic advisory committee. This move raises the question: Can a rugby icon truly influence the future of Welsh football? Let’s dive in.
Owens, 39, retired from rugby in 2024 after an illustrious career that included four Six Nations titles and five Tests as a Lion. Since hanging up his boots, he’s been no stranger to leadership roles, serving as a non-executive director for the Netball Super League’s Cardiff Dragons. Now, he’s stepping into a role that promises to shape the strategic direction of Welsh football—a sport he’s less directly associated with. And this is the part most people miss: Owens’s inclusion isn’t just symbolic; it’s a bold statement about cross-sport collaboration and the value of diverse perspectives in governance.
The FAW’s new committee is no ordinary group. Its mission? To strengthen the association’s long-term strategic planning, decision-making, and execution across all facets of the game. Alongside Owens, the committee boasts a lineup of heavyweights from various fields:
- Rhian Thomas, a seasoned non-executive director with board-level experience in highly regulated sectors, brings a wealth of governance expertise.
- James Gow, who spent 13 years at Liverpool FC before a stint as sporting director at Danish club Aalborg, adds deep footballing knowledge.
- Shavanah Taj, general secretary of TUC Cymru, brings a unique perspective on labor and community engagement.
- Steve Dalton, a chartered director and former FAW Board chair, offers institutional memory and strategic insight.
Chairing the committee is FAW president Mike Jones, joined by deputy president Will Lloyd Williams and vice-presidents Gail Powell, Mark Adams, and Graham Evans. Notably, three former FAW presidents—Peter Rees, David Griffiths, and Kieran O'Connor—will also contribute, alongside life councillors Ron Bridges, Ken Hughes, David Alun Jones, Philip Jones, Ken Tucker, Bob Waygood, and Chris Whitley.
In a statement, the FAW emphasized the committee’s advisory role, highlighting its focus on providing informed insights, constructive challenges, and strategic support. Here’s the controversial bit: While the committee’s goals are ambitious, some critics argue that bringing in figures from outside football—like Owens—could dilute the sport-specific expertise needed for such a role. Is this a forward-thinking move or a risky gamble? We’ll let you decide.
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney praised the committee, stating, ‘This group brings together exceptional individuals with deep expertise across football, governance, business, and public life. Their independent insights and constructive challenges will be invaluable as we execute our long-term strategy and support football at every level in Wales.’
As Owens and his fellow committee members embark on this new journey, one thing is clear: the FAW is betting big on diverse leadership to drive its future success. But will it pay off? Only time will tell. What do you think? Is Ken Owens the right person for this role, or should the FAW have looked within the football world? Let us know in the comments below!
