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’ first-ever Hado side are preparing to fly all the way to China to take part in their debut World Cup this May.

Hado is an augmented reality (AR) sport, combining physical activity with digital gameplay. Players use headsets and armbands to launch virtual energy balls and shields.

Rhys Richardson is a player and also assistant head teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni in Caerphilly. Speaking to Caerphilly Observer ahead of their training programme, he said: “The tournament begins on May 24 in Shanghai, so we’re starting to get things going in terms of preparation for the event.

“We’ll be spending the next six weekends in Coventry training at a base which has the facilities to practice.”

Mr Richardson and the team have already competed on the European stage, where they secured their world cup spot having placed sixth last September.

He continued: “I think our expectations are to make it through to the quarter-finals and see how we’re looking. We have some new players and as we don’t get to practice too often it can take some time to click.

“Having Euan Ingram, who’s a player and our coach, is also a huge piece of this, he took gold in Rocket League during the Commonwealth Games.”

The teacher added how the team are in talks with Caerphilly County Borough Council over creating a Hado playing court in Caerphilly Leisure Centre, with hopes it could even become part of the school curriculum.

“It would have huge benefits to the community. Not only helping us train, but bringing through new players so Wales can be a force in the future.”

Speaking about the future, Mr Richardson added how they have a 14-year-old talent named Reece who has been helping with coaching, and will be eligible to play for Wales in the Euros next year in the Netherlands.

Esports Wales, who are part-funding the team’s trip, said: “As the Welsh team steps onto the world Hado stage for the first time, they will have the support of the entire nation behind them. We are grateful to be able to give players the opportunity to represent their country.

“We believe in our players, our community, and the journey we’re on together. Pob lwc, Cymru – let’s make history.”

The team are set to jet off on May 20, with games streamed via YouTube.