More than 130 school pupils with special educational needs from across South East Wales recently had the opportunity to experience the thrills of rugby at a ‘Six Nations Rugby Festival’.
Youngsters at the event, hosted by Trinity Fields School in Ystrad Mynach had the chance to try a wide range of activities including hitting tackle bags and developing their rugby skills, as well as taking part in the rugby tournament itself.
Each school represented a country and wore the colours of their adopted country. Long-standing supporter of this event, Wales rugby star Ryan Jones also came along to the event and, together with fellow rugby star Ian Gough, showed the youngsters some ball skills.
Cllr Phil Bevan, cabinet member for education, leisure and lifelong learning said: “This excellent event continues to go from strength to strength and is a wonderful occasion for all concerned.
“We as a council are committed to ensuring opportunities for all, and this festival provides a great opportunity for youngsters with special needs to sample new experiences, develop new skills and make new friends”.
The annual event is organised by Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Sports Development Officer Paul Taylor and aims to promote rugby as a means of developing social and physical life skills. It was sponsored by local company Orange Box.
For more information contact Paul Taylor, Disability Sport Wales Development Officer on 01495 241 177.
Congratulations to Paul and the Caerffili Sports Development Team, the event was a superb day out for the boys and girls taking part. A special thank you to Orange Box who sponsored the event and brought staff to the event in shifts to witness the day. I even had a go at passing the ball through Brian Moors mouth, but conceeded to the more professional female staff as I only achieved one!
Well done all.
As a Governor of Trinity Fields I want to add my congratulations to all involved in making this a success. I'm very well aware of the dedication of staff and parents. This is an excellent example of "going that extra mile" to give children with disabilities an experience that they wont forget.