During a visit to Cwmbran RFC on Sunday evening, I was told that the Wales Deaf Rugby Union team was training on the pitch.
Players from across the country enjoyed an early evening session at the King’s Head ground to prepare for a match against England this weekend.
When they finished training at around 6pm I asked the team for a photo and chatted to Richard Sheppeard, the team’s coach.
Playing England at Newbridge RFC
He told Cwmbran Life: “It’s just trying to spread the word that these boys have got hearing loss, they can play, and they’ve got great opportunities to play for their country.
“We had a contact to say that Cwmbran would host us and it’s been fantastic fair play.
“Big match against England next week at Newbridge RFC, it’s the big one. Kick off 2.30pm.”
Travelled from Wrexham
Darren and Heulwen Owens travelled down from north Wales for the session.
Darren said: “My son and his teammate, they both play for Wrexham youth. We’re going home now, three hours.”
I asked if they had received a “warm welcome” in Cwmbran. Heulwen said: “Yes, it’s very nice, very friendly, lovely.”