Youngsters from Penywaun’s Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun Comprehensive School are hopeful of a podium finish as they set off to Rosslyn Park’s National Schools Sevens competition this week.
The school, which has had a great degree of success on the rugby field, is taking more than 48 youngsters who will compete playing across four teams in the world’s largest schools rugby tournament.
Once again, the school has received the backing from local energy company, Pennant Walters, which has sponsored the kit for all participants. The funding from Pennant Walters is linked to its 9 turbine 22 MW Mynydd Bwllfa windfarm near Aberdare in Rhondda Cynon Taf, which became operational in summer 2015. It builds on previous donations which have seen the company provide money to support various local community groups.
Teacher and Director of 7’s at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun Comprehensive School, Ceri Type, said:
“This tournament is a firm fixture in the calendar, and we are thrilled that we have been selected to compete again. It’s a fantastic experience for everyone playing and the support from Pennant Walters is so welcome. It allows our boys to not only play the part, but to look like a professional team too.
“Last year we had a great tournament, finishing in the top 32 teams in the UK in the U14 section, and this year we want to come back stronger.
“We are very grateful to Pennant Walters for their continued support. Our boys will be proud to showcase the Pennant Walters name on an international platform and we hope to do everyone involved proud.”
Pennant Walters managing director, Dale Hart, said:
“This tournament is like no other and we are proud to be able to play a small part in helping the teams in their quest for a win.
“Our wind energy project community funds exist to make a difference to the local communities in which we work – benefitting people directly. We are delighted that this money has been put to good use and we wish the teams the very best of luck – we’ll be following them closely during the week.”
The Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens has evolved into the world’s largest rugby tournament with over 10,000 boys and girls aged 11 – 18 competing annually. It will take place between 18 – 22 March.
