Chief executive Martyn Phillips invited a selection of the 7,000 debenture holders (determined by ballot), some of whom first invested in Welsh rugby in 1969, to the free event, which is part of a new Welsh Rugby Union initiative to further engage with some of their most loyal backers.
Debenture holders have access to purchase around 19,000 tickets between them for all WRU international matches at Principality Stadium and also receive a priority service in relation to buying tickets for concerts and other major occasions at the 74,500 capacity multi-event venue.
This group of supporters paid an initial premium, which the WRU has invested over time in vital infrastructure projects like the maintenance and regeneration of its national stadium as well as safeguarding the future of the grass roots game, in exchange for first right of refusal access to all international matches.
Terms of debentures mean that initial investments are returned to the purchasers, at the value paid, upon the maturity of the agreement – which can be from 25 to 50 years in duration.
Holders receive first right of refusal on tickets as specified and the WRU has benefited by gaining access to key investment at important times through history when it has been needed most, as well as securing an engaged and loyal group of purchasers.
“Debenture holders are a group of 7,000 or so of our very best supporters,” said Phillips, who also spoke at the event.
“Not only has this group of people invested in Welsh rugby initially – and at a time when our national sport has probably been in most need – but they also come back time and time again to support Wales.
“They are a dedicated group and an extremely valued part of the rugby family, without whom we would not be able to invest at grass roots and progress on the world stage in the manner that we do.
“Wales are currently lying in third place in the World Rugby rankings and we are going into the Six Nations this year, and the Rugby World Cup later in the season, with a real and genuine opportunity to excel and our debenture holders have had an integral part to play in that success.
“We have renewed determination to let them know just how important they are to us and we are delighted to have been able to put on the first of what will be regular evenings of celebration for our debenture holders at St David’s Hall this week.”
WRU debenture holders will be treated to regular events throughout the season and there are also plans to further engage with this most loyal group of supporters on matchdays, with hospitality upgrades and access to ‘Legend’s Tours’ and a unique ‘Anthem Experience’ which allows selected debenture holders to join in the national anthems from the Welsh bench just part of the benefits to be on offer.
The first ‘Annual Debenture Evening’ included a two hour question and answer session hosted by Quinnell, with both Warburton and Gatland charged with answering submissions from the audience gathered.
Attendees were also welcomed at a drinks reception and WRU boss Phillips also took to the stage to introduce a specially commissioned video designed to set the mood and celebrate the last 18months in Welsh rugby at senior international and grass roots levels.
