Hundreds of pupils take part in Caerphilly’s 20th year of Disability Six Nations

More than 400 pupils across 18 secondary schools have taken part in Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Disability Six Nations.

It’s the 20th anniversary of the games, which are held at Ystrad Mynach’s Centre for Sporting Excellence.

At first, the tournament involved just six schools and was held on a muddy Penallta Park, but now welcomes pupils from all over, including one school in Bristol.

The games kicked-off early on Tuesday March 18, starting with 16 stations in which pupils would test their passing, kicking, tackling, and running skills.

Those who took part had a wide range of disabilities, giving a chance for even the least mobile to get out and be active.

Stopping for lunch, which was paid for through the Phylyp Butler Charity, the pupils returned to the pitch, with Caerphilly-based schools Islwyn High, Risca Community Comprehensive, and Trinity Fields all involved.

The ‘Six Nations’ then began, alongside the ‘Rugby Championship’ fixtures, which saw kids in kits representing South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina.

Cllr Carol Andrews, cabinet member for education and communities, spoke to Caerphilly Observer about the day. She said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to see so many schools coming from far and wide.

“This is the second year coming for me, and it’s only going from strength-to-strength. I spoke to a boy last year who had no interest in sport, came along and loved it.

“It’s very inclusive, it’s great pupils have the chance to come and do something different.”

Pupils also had the chance to meet and take pictures with Dragons RFC players, and most importantly, club mascot Rodney.

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, deputy leader of the council, said: “This is my third time at this event and it only seems to be growing in size.

“Sport Caerphilly do a great job at these events and it’s all worth it when you see the joy on the faces of everyone involved. There’s a real camaraderie and we can only hope we replicate this or even continue to grow next year.”

Cllr Chris Morgan, cabinet member for leisure, added: “The smiles on the children’s faces said it all. I’d like to thank the organisers for arranging such a fantastic inclusive event and the schools from across Wales for travelling to the Caerphilly County Borough. We look forward to welcoming you again next year.

“I am proud of our sports development officers and staff who have run this event for 20 years, this is a great achievement for our borough.”