A young rugby fan from Cardiff had a weekend he won’t ever forget after playing an important role during Rugby World Cup 2023, in France.
Zachary, nine, led Wales onto the pitch against Georgia in Nantes as a Defender of Tomorrow and Mascot ahead of the two teams continuing their Rugby World Cup campaign on Saturday.
The inspiring youngster was awarded the role for his commitment to playing rugby, despite being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes last year.
On his experience, Zach had said: “I hadn’t even thought about being a diabetic since I got to the stadium. I can’t believe we got to sit in the substitute’s seats – this really is a once in a lifetime opportunity. In 10 years, I want to be out there playing”.
Zach’s father, Nick Lewis, had also said: “From a parent’s perspective, I was blown away, the entire experience was out of this world, I cannot thank Defender enough for giving Zach and me the experience of a lifetime. You don’t usually get to see behind the scenes of a rugby game, how many people can say they have been behind the scenes of a rugby World Cup game. Defender will definitely inspire a new generation of kids wanting to take up rugby. So I would honestly like to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Zach loved every second of his time in Nantes”.
Zachary has been praised by many for his determination to go above and beyond the usual expectations, whilst always maintaining a positive, can-do attitude despite being pulled off the pitch for treatment. Rugby and its community have been a huge influence on him – a true Defender of Tomorrow.
96 children have been chosen from around the world by Defender, Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup 2023, for their dedication to making a difference to local communities.
Each exceptional hero will lead the teams as they walk out onto the pitch throughout the tournament in France.
