Wales deaf rugby sevens world champions given heroes’ welcome at Senedd

Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Wales’ deaf rugby sevens world champions have been welcomed to the Senedd following their double victory in Argentina.

Both the men’s and women’s sides won at the World Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, which was held in April this year.

Players, including captains Sarah Harper and Jon Cudd, as well as members of the coaching staff, were at the Senedd on Tuesday July 11 to celebrate their achievements.

The men’s side beat Australia 20-5 in the final to retain their world cup trophy, while the women defeated England 32-0 in their final to win their first ever Deaf Rugby World Cup campaign.

Harper said: “It was a massive achievement for the women’s team to go to Argentina, to represent the country for the first time – and to not only win, but to win unconceded.

“It was not an easy ride; we didn’t have much time for ourselves, and it was challenging trying to keep in touch with family back home. But we overcame.

“Without the support of the backroom staff and coaches we wouldn’t have achieved what we did, with both men and women returning home as world champions.”

During their visit to the Senedd, players shared their experiences of the tournaments with Senedd Members, including First Minister Mark Drakeford.

The Senedd’s Llwydd, Elin Jones MS, said: “We are always proud of our national athletes, and all are equally important. But, right now, the Wales deaf rugby teams are a little bit more important because they are double world champions – men and women. You cannot get any better than that.

“It was our honour to welcome the teams and their support staff to the Senedd, to congratulate them for being at the top of their game – indeed, on top of the world.”

Ms Jones continued: “It was an opportunity to recognise not only their achievement at the competition, but for the weeks, months and years of effort that has gone in to becoming international players and becoming the best in the world.

“We are all very proud of you. Llongyfarchiadau.”