Colwyn Bay Stingrays triumph at WRU Road to Principality Inclusion Festival in Cardiff

Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s engagement office Hannah Hughes led out the Stingrays for its first ever game during the WRU Road to Principality Inclusion Festival.

Also representing the college were Rhos-on-Sea-based student Connor Workman, who was was named as assistant team manager and Dylan Evans from the college group’s Glynllifon campus who played on the wing.

Ms Hughes said: “Being new in my role as the rugby engagement officer within Grŵp Llandrillo Menai it was great to be able to support and allow students to be part of the historic day. One student played his first ever rugby game whilst another had the experience of acting as the assistant manager for the day.”

Colwyn Bay Stingrays MAR are not your ordinary rugby team - they are the only team of its kind in North Wales offering a senior inclusive format of the sport.

It is a slightly modified version of the standard contact game with a team comprised of both disabled and non-disabled players.

Players’ disabilities can range from learning difficulties to learning and physical disabilities.

The non-disabled players play a crucial role in providing a supportive environment,and facilitating the structure of a regular game by assist in both training and matches as part of the team.

Ms Hughes added: “The Stingrays having their debut match at the mixed ability festival at the Principality Stadium was an amazing experience for the squad - it was great for them to play alongside their able-bodied peers and siblings.

“Being the youngest formed team in the world by non other than Welsh rugby legend Rachel Taylor, it was a privilege to ensure the Stingrays enjoyed their first experience of a rugby festival, and watching them secure their first ever win was a dream come true, whilst showcasing the great work happening in North Wales with teams such as RGC."

To find further information or to get involved email Rachel Taylor rtaylor@wru.wales