More than 8,000 fans welcomed Warren Gatland’s Grand Slam heroes at a special reception in the Senedd on Monday evening.
The Welsh Government organised the event to congratulate the winning Wales squad and their coaching staff for delivering the third Welsh Grand Slam in eight seasons.
A delighted First Minister, Carwyn Jones, welcomed Wales’ victorious Grand Slam squad to the Senedd to formally present the Six Nations trophy to the team.
Thousands of excited fans turned out to celebrate the team’s 16-9 win over France on Saturday which sealed the title and the Grand Slam. On the steps of the Senedd in Cardiff Bay, the First Minister presented the trophy once again to coach Warren Gatland and captain Sam Warburton.
First minister, Carwyn Jones, said: “This day is about two glorious words – Grand Slam. The players who stand before us are heroes who have made Wales proud. On the pitch they have displayed a strength, depth and skill that places them on par with the great Welsh players of the past.
“For a team so young they have showed a maturity beyond their years and a determination to win that has moved the Welsh game to another level. It is a great honour to present this trophy to Warren Gatland and the team and congratulate them on what they have achieved for our country.
“It’s a very young side at the moment and you have to be excited about the next few years that Saturady was an unbelievable occasion to the crowd sand bread of heaven in the last couple of minutes and that made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck. Fantastic achievement for the players fantastic occasion
Welsh Rugby Union chief executive Roger Lewis was overwhelmed with the support his team had received throughout the tournament and on the steps of the Senedd.
“This is a huge tribute to all to all the hard work Warren Gatland has done in terms of the environment he has created. What tonight is all about is a metaphor for modern Wales – youthful , creative, innovative and be prepared to tough it out – the fans really deserve this occasion. Wales is a good place to be in tonight.”
Pictures by Carl Jones.
