Nigel Owens recently experienced a heartwarming reminder of what makes Welsh rugby so special. Returning to the field for a charity match in Pembrokeshire between Crymych RFC Youth and Pembrokeshire RFC Youth, Nigel was left in awe not just by the talent on display, but also by the incredible community spirit surrounding the event.
The day was organised to support Isaac Davies, a young farmer and rugby player from Crymych RFC, diagnosed with a brain tumour. The community came together, raising nearly £100,000, with Isaac’s jersey fetching an astounding £11,000 at auction. That’s the kind of passion you usually only see for rugby giants like the All Blacks!
The matches—a showcase of under-17s and under-18s—were filled with talent, and Nigel struggled to believe that these players hadn’t yet been snapped up by academies. It was a testament to the strength and vibrancy of grassroots rugby, proof that the sport’s future in Wales is indeed bright.
Nigel’s return to the rugby pitch also highlighted a pressing issue: the decrease in attendance at regional matches compared to the roaring crowds of yesteryear. Yet, this experience served as an invigorating reminder of the fiery passion that still blazes within Welsh rugby’s community roots. It’s about identity, tradition, and a deep connection to local clubs—a sentiment that mustn’t be lost in the sport’s future evolution.
Welsh rugby faces challenges, particularly with dwindling crowds at bigger games, but the essence of what makes it thrive was palpable in Crymych. It’s a call to rekindle the grassroots passion and ensure the sport stays true to its origins, making sure fans maintain their cherished connection to the game and their local clubs. Let’s not forget what has historically made Welsh rugby so strong and fervent!