Should WRU Prioritize North Wales in Elite Rugby Plans?

Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC) is a semi-professional rugby team based in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, advocating for the inclusion of the northern region in the Welsh Rugby Union's (WRU) restructuring plans. Amidst proposals to reduce the number of professional men's rugby teams in Wales from four to two, RGC stresses the importance of recognizing the northern demographic and its potential for rugby development.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• RGC calls for consideration of North Wales in WRU's restructuring plans.
• The WRU proposes reducing professional teams from four to two, all based in the south.
• RGC's academy aims to nurture local talent amid competition from rugby league clubs.
• The club faces challenges but remains focused on developing north Walian players.
• RGC seeks to capitalise on rugby's growth in North Wales for future opportunities.

Understanding the Current Landscape of Welsh Rugby

The WRU's announcement to potentially reduce the number of professional teams from four to two has sparked considerable debate within the rugby community in Wales. The professional teams—Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, and Scarlets—are all located in the south, leaving RGC and other northern clubs feeling sidelined. This proposal comes during a period of consultation aimed at revitalising elite rugby in Wales, which has faced challenges in recent years.

The Role of RGC in North Wales

RGC, competing in the Super Rygbi Cymru (SRC), represents a vital part of rugby in North Wales. Established to provide a platform for local talent, the club has its own academy system, ensuring that players from the region are developed in-house. General manager Alun Pritchard emphasises the importance of northern representation, stating, "I hope people do remember the north because it is half the landmass of Wales and a third of the population." This sentiment highlights the need for equitable distribution of resources and opportunities in rugby across Wales.

WRU's Proposal and Its Implications

The WRU's plan to consolidate professional teams is framed as a strategy to strengthen the financial viability of rugby in Wales. By reducing the number of elite teams, the WRU aims to funnel more resources into the remaining clubs and the SRC, which currently operates with a salary cap of £160,000. The governing body has promised that this model will allow for greater investment in player development, including the establishment of a national academy network.

The Potential Impact on RGC and Northern Rugby

The prospect of fewer professional teams raises concerns for RGC regarding player retention and development. With the WRU's focus shifting south, there is apprehension that northern players may be drawn away from RGC to the more established teams. Pritchard notes, "If a number of players do drop out of the professional regions, will they all go to SRC clubs in the south? Will they all strengthen and we potentially don't?" This uncertainty creates a challenging environment for RGC as they strive to maintain a competitive edge.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

RGC faces the dual challenge of competing against rugby league clubs for talent, as well as the resurgence of football in the area, notably through Wrexham AFC's rise under celebrity ownership. This competitive landscape requires RGC to be innovative and resilient. With rugby participation increasing in North Wales, Pritchard remains optimistic about the club's future, stating, "Rugby is a growing sport in north Wales and the number of participants is increasing."

Developing Local Talent

RGC's commitment to nurturing local talent is evident in their youth programmes, which include under-16 and under-18 teams participating in the WRU Regional Age Grade Championship. The club aims to create pathways for young players to enter the professional game, focusing on home-grown talent like Wales Under-18s centre Osian Llewellyn and full-back Caio Parry, who has represented Great Britain in Sevens rugby. Pritchard highlights the importance of developing these players, stating, "At the end of the day, we are there to develop north Walian talent and to try to get them into the professional and national game."

RGC's Competitive Ambitions

Despite the challenges, RGC remains determined to make its mark. The club's recent history includes winning the WRU National Cup in 2017 and competing in the SRC, where they finished seventh in the inaugural season. Looking ahead, RGC aims to improve its performance and secure home wins while also seeking to upset stronger teams during away matches. As Pritchard notes, "The main aim for me would be to see youngsters come through, perform well, get some good home wins and then see what we can do on the road."

Conclusion: The Future of Rugby in North Wales

The future of rugby in North Wales hinges on the WRU's willingness to embrace inclusivity and consider the unique needs of the northern region. As RGC continues to advocate for local representation in the professional game, the potential for growth remains significant. The club's focus on developing young talent and competing at higher levels will be crucial in establishing a sustainable rugby culture in North Wales.

As the WRU's consultation progresses, the rugby community in Wales will be closely watching how these developments unfold and what they mean for the future of the sport across the nation. Will the WRU's plans adequately address the needs of northern clubs like RGC, or will they further entrench the divide between north and south? Only time will tell.

#RugbyWales #RGC #NorthWalesRugby

FAQs

What is Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC)?

Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC) is a semi-professional rugby team based in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, competing in the Super Rygbi Cymru league and focusing on developing local talent.

What are the WRU's proposals for professional rugby in Wales?

The WRU proposes to reduce the number of professional men's teams from four to two, with plans to invest more resources into the remaining teams and the Super Rygbi Cymru competition.

How does RGC plan to develop local talent?

RGC has its own academy system and fields under-16 and under-18 teams, aiming to nurture young players from North Wales and provide them pathways into professional rugby.

What challenges does RGC face?

RGC faces competition from rugby league clubs for talent and the growing popularity of football in the region, particularly due to Wrexham AFC's rise under new ownership.

What is the significance of rugby in North Wales?

Rugby is a growing sport in North Wales, with increasing participation rates, and RGC believes that there are significant opportunities for the sport's development in the region.