🏉 Is it time for a pro rugby team in North Wales? The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is being nudged to set the ball rolling on creating a professional team in the region. Although plans were previously scrapped, the conversation is back on the table, especially as rugby talent continues to slip over the border.
Rygbi Gogledd Cymru’s (RGC) Alun Pritchard has been vocal about recognising North Wales in WRU’s restructuring plans. He believes the region’s untapped talent deserves its spotlight, noting, “It’s half the landmass of Wales and a third of the population… We’re different in the fact we have our own academy.”
However, rugby in North Wales faces stiff competition from the rising profile of Wrexham AFC, which has been steered into the limelight by Hollywood’s Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Despite this, Pritchard remains confident, seeing a growing interest in rugby: “Rugby is growing in north Wales… The U20s packed out stadiums here.”
The challenge remains to retain and develop young talent locally rather than losing them to English teams. A few North Walians like Dylan Alford are making waves at clubs like the Scarlets, but more needs to be done to see north-born players in red jerseys representing Wales.
With the WRU focusing on younger age groups, John Alder, head of player development, emphasises: “We want to give the north Walian boys the best chance… while also promoting conversion at the professional level.”
So, is it time North Wales rugby hit the big leagues? Many believe it’s the opportunity Welsh rugby can’t afford to pass by. 🌟