The Islwyn Under 15s Rugby Union Team have been presented with caps for representing their county after traveling across Wales to compete in an All Wales Competition.
The presentation by Caerphilly County Borough Council Mayor Cllr Michael Gray, at the Pontllanfraith council chamber, celebrated the achievements of the team over the past year.
Cllr Gray said: “Over the last year you have all worked exceptionally hard under the coaches’ stewardship and endured their tough, no nonsense training regime.
“You have travelled all over Wales playing matches and have played with great effort and commitment, as well as displaying exemplary behaviour and really doing Islwyn proud.
“Your coaches, parents, clubs and schools are consequently very proud of you.”
The Islwyn Under 15s team joins part of a plan that aims to encourage and nurture young Welsh rugby talent.
The WRU will assist in the delivery of five schools’ district teams within the region by working alongside the Welsh Schools Intermediate Group.
These teams will then take part in the Welsh School Intermediate Group competition throughout the season, and will act as a platform for players to move to the Newport Gwent Dragons set-up.