The 22-year-old, who played all his junior and youth rugby for Hendy before joining the Quins four seasons ago, produced some impressive performances during the month, much of which was unseen according to head coach Steve Williams.
Williams, who played flanker and second row for Swansea, Neath, Cardiff, London Irish and Northampton, and won 29 caps for Wales, is full of praise for his young charge.
“It’s fantastic that Elis has been recognised in this way because a lot of the hard work he puts in is the unglamorous kind that often goes unnoticed,” he said. “He puts his head where most players don’t put their feet and wins a lot of ball for us on the floor.
“Elis has had a run of games with James Davies being away with Wales Sevens and has taken his chance. He is still only 22 so he can only get better.”
Elis too is pleased with how the season is shaping up. “It’s been good to get a few games under my belt after being out with injury and everything’s going well at the moment, with the Boxing Day win over Llandovery a welcome boost to end the year. I would say I thrive on the physical side of the game, I don’t mind getting my hands dirty or putting my neck on the line.
“It’s been great working with Steve (Williams) as he’s got experience as a professional rugby player so he knows what it takes to get to that position. The Quins have been great to me, they’ve always been there with help and advice, however I would obviously jump at any opportunity to step up a level if any offers were to come in.”
Virginia Linnell, Principality Branch Manager at Carmarthen added: “Congratulations to Elis Lloyd, who has put in a solid performance in the Premiership last year and especially last month. He has had a fantastic recent run of games and has been a real contributor to the team. We are looking forward to seeing him build on his current success.”
Elis Lloyd factfile
Position: Openside flanker
Club: Carmarthen Quins
Born: 2.11.90, Carmarthen
Education: Ysgol Gyfun Maes yr Yrfa
Occupation: Carpenter for Lloyd and Gravell
Most admired rugby players: Richie McCaw and David Pocock
Biggest influence on career: Father Paul who gave up so much time and effort to the rugby development of Elis along with brothers Llyr and Osian who all played for Welsh Schools Under 16 early in their rugby careers.
