A team of rugby players with disabilities is travelling to Ireland next month, to play an exhibition match to inspire the setting-up of a similar Irish team.
The Gladiators, who are based at the home of Swansea Uplands RFC in Upper Killay, is an integrated club which helps players with severe learning disabilities, Down’s Syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and a range of other disabilities to find a fun and constructive outlet for their energy.
The team was formed in 1991, and has gone from strength to strength, regularly going on tours.
And their success has now seen interest from Ireland, where they have been invited to play during this year’s Six Nations tournament.
Club treasurer Tony Gemine said: “Rugby gives these players to play what is the national game of Wales, and in doing so show their disabilities are not so limiting.
“The Irish set-up out there already has a tag rugby team for younger players with disabilities, but they are looking to see how the game can be adapted for older players, so they can play a contact game.â€
The team will head to Malone RFC in Belfast on February 20, to play the game against another disability team, from Scotland, Glasgow, called The Clan. A warm up game takes place against South Gower on February 8.
Find out more about the Swansea Gladiators in a special video report
Article source: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/welsh-rugby-crisis-irb-not-6481350
Disability rugby team Swansea Gladiators to inspire Irish counterparts
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