Since their move to Glynd?r University, which become their training ground earlier this year, the team have forged strong bonds with RGC 1404 and, following discussions with the Welsh Rugby Union’s Rupert Moon and Marc Roberts – RGC General Manager and Performance Programme Manager respectively, decided to change their name and become GBWR’s newest registered club.
The match will celebrate the launch of the new team and takes place at Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre, Eirias Rd, Clwyd, LL29 7SP, at 12 noon ahead of RGC’s SWALEC Championship match against Merthyr at 2.30, and is free to anyone who would like to come along and watch the most exciting sport of the London 2012 Paralympics.
Moon said: “We are thrilled with this new partnership because it brings another team under the umbrella of RGC, growing our rugby family across North Wales and providing another opportunity for more people to play rugby in the area.”
David Pond, GBWR Chief Executive, added: “This is great news for the growth and development of wheelchair rugby in North Wales. With ongoing support from RGC and Glynd?r University the team has been able to focus on expansion and on encouraging more people to participate in the sport.
“We’re grateful to the Welsh Rugby Charitable Trust which has funded regional development work with the club and look forward to seeing the new RGC side competing at the highest level in the UK Wheelchair Rugby Super Series league in 2015.”
An exciting fusion of ice hockey, handball and rugby, wheelchair rugby was originally founded in Canada in 1977 and has been growing popularity around the world. It’s not only based on physical speed and chair contact, but is also a highly tactical intelligent game to be involved in.
“With eight rolling substitutes making up squads of 12, with four players on court per team at any time, all with the aim of driving the ball across the opponents’ goal line. Contact between wheelchairs is permitted, as players use their chairs to block and hold opponents. The emphasis of the sport is on fun, excitement and inclusion, particularly for players with higher levels of impairment.
Anyone that would like to find out more about the club, or to join as a member, can check out the GBWR website at: www.gbwr.org.uk. Or contact Amanda Thomas at Amanda.thomas@gbwr.org.uk (07950 545014) or Tony Stackhouse on 0770 1045576.
