Two Torfaen men have been selected to represent Wales in the first football world cup for people who have had a transplant.
Kyle Foster and Elliot Fenwick will travel to Cervia in Italy to compete against 11 countries including Australia, England, Spain and Ireland in the Transplant Football World Cup.
Kyle, 35, had a kidney transplant from his dad in December 2011. He’s previously represented Wales at the British Transplant Games in sports including archery, football, ball throw, and shot put.
He told Cwmbran Life: “I found out in January that we would go as Wales [and not Team GB].”
The squad entered a tournament in March and then the manager selected 16 players. Kyle said they’re proud to have their first female member in the squad selected for the World Cup.
Elliot, 28, had a kidney transplant in December 2023.
He added: “Elliot is new to the team as well, he recently came in and is thriving. It’s about spreading awareness of it [living a life after a transplant].
“We’re hoping to spread the word and set up a youth academy. In the Transplant Games you’ve got to be 18. Medical staff come and watch us. All coaching staff have got something to do with transplants.
“We’re more than a team. We’re a support network. We know what others are going through.”
Danny Gabbidon
Former Cwmbran resident and Wales international footballer Danny Gabbidon is the team’s ambassador.
Kyle said: “We had our kit reveal by Danny. He came to our tournament in March and loved it. We were lucky enough to be fitted with the official Wales football kit. Danny gave it out to us at our training ground in Bridgend.
“I’ve loved him since I was a kid. He’s been one of my idols, so down to earth.”
The tournament is from 8 September to 14 September.