Match Official Evan Cuddy Jenkins was rewarded for all his hard work in the community game last Saturday at Principality Stadium when given the role of assistant referee number six in Wales’ dramatic victory against Japan.
Evan, who has cerebral palsy has been involved with Welsh rugby club Rhiwbina Squirrels since U7, is a regular sight in the community game, often running the line for match officials.
Pitch side immediately after match, WRU Match Official Community Lead Adam Jones, said: “Evan is one of our match officials and today he was assistant referee number six, so he was helping with the subs and the match officials’ duties.
“I think he did a brilliant job and he thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I saw him smiling all the way through.”
A very happy Evan said: “It was a great atmosphere, and I really enjoyed the occasion, it’s the best experience I have ever had!”
Jones added: “Evan does a lot of games in the community with Ian Buckland who was also timekeeper today. Evan runs the line for the games Ian referees. Evan will be touch judge for Ian tomorrow who is doing four games as Ian brings up game number 100 in Wales at all levels since the start of the season! A remarkable achievement!.
“I thought today was an opportunity for Evan to experience the match day environment at the stadium and it was an opportunity for us to congratulate him for all the hard work he has put in over the last few years in the community game in Wales.
“For me it’s great to see Evan rewarded for all his hard work and dedication. I firmly believe there is an opportunity for everyone when it comes to match officiating in Wales, at whatever level. Today has shown that and I’m thrilled for Evan.”
