The improved match ball features durable compound, performance grip and valve seam technology for excellent kicking characteristics.
The ball, which will be available in time for the new season, has been named ‘Trydan’ as voted by SWALEC employees and the general public on social media, meaning electricity in Welsh.
All SWALEC League clubs receive an annual allocation of balls free of charge, courtesy of the WRU’s partnership with Gilbert which sees them exclusively supply balls to every level of the game in Wales, from grassroots to senior international rugby. The number of balls SWALEC League clubs receive depends on the number of teams they run, from mini and junior to youth, women’s and girls, first and second teams, as per information given to the WRU via the annual club audit.
On top of their free allocation of balls, to include the new match ball, clubs have the option of purchasing extra balls at a discounted rate.
Josh Lewsey, WRU Head of Rugby said, “We take great pride in being able to reward grassroots clubs, especially those who put so much into the game in Wales through developing players, coaching, referees and administrators. We have some fantastic support from our official suppliers and we are grateful to Gilbert for producing this new, higher quality match ball for use throughout the SWALEC Leagues, and for enabling clubs to purchase additional balls at a reduced rate.”
Andy Challis, Gilbert Brand Manager said, “Gilbert’s heritage is built upon supplying the highest quality rugby balls suitable for each level of the game. The new ‘Trydan’ ball has been developed exclusively for the WRU, to be used by grassroots clubs across the whole of Wales – we are delighted to launch it for the new season.”
Wendy Barbour, Director of Sponsorship for SSE/SWALEC, added: “Everyone involved in rugby knows how significant an opportunity it is to get the chance to name a Gilbert ball – it’d be a proud moment for any rugby fan so we were delighted when Gilbert gave our employees that chance. We’re always keen to let our staff show their creative flair, as they’re an innovative bunch, and we weren’t disappointed as they came up with a great selection of possible names for the ball. SSE staff from all over the UK took part and ‘Trydan’ was a strong contender right from the start.”
