Newtown’s successful U14 side will have a day to remember Saturday when they take centre stage in front of thousands of fans at one of the world’s most famous rugby grounds.
The youngsters will play against local champions Tumble U14 at Parc Y Scarlets prior to Llanelli’s massive Heineken Cup clash with Leicester Tigers.
The match has been made possible through Newtown RFC’s excellent relationship with the south west Wales region which has former Newtown prop Pete Edwards (left) among their ranks. Two coach loads will make the journey down and Pete, who is recovering from a broken arm and won’t be playing, will welcome the guests and show them around the stadium.
Team boss, Will Jones, said: “Having played and beaten many sides in North Wales, it’s great that we can ply our trade in Llanelli and compete at such a high standard. The experience this is giving the lads is invaluable to their development as rugby players. For the players to meet Pete ‘The Meat' Edwards will be an added bonus and an inspiration as to what can be achieved by a rugby player from Mid Wales.”
Coach Rhys Pritchard added his gratitude to the support from other individuals, paying tribute to the club, Scarlets Community Development Manager Kate Jenkins and parents. “I’d like to thank everyone associated in making this team successful like volunteers and the parents. A special mention must go to Kate who has dedicated many hours serving Newtown Rugby Club over the years and has been very generous in dedicating her time helping to arrange fixtures for many of our junior teams. Most of all I’d pay tribute to the players. They have shown a massive amount of commitment over the years and are starting to reap the benefits now.”
The Under 14s have become a formidable force, winning the North Wales Cup for the past two seasons by playing attractive rugby and becoming a pleasure to watch.