Players and coaches from the Ospreys spent time at the Big Pit National Coal Museum this week.
The squad headed to Blaenafon on Monday afternoon after completing a morning of recovery and analysis following last weekend’s action and prior to preparation for this Saturday’s Guinness PRO14 clash with Toyota Cheetahs beginning in earnest.
Staff at the award winning mining museum, still a real coal mine, welcomed the party who enjoyed the world-famous underground Tour, traveling 300 feet underground with to see for themselves what life was like for the thousands of men who worked at the coal face in Wales.
It was an eye-opening experience for the party, most of who had never gone underground before and they also enjoyed fascinating exhibitions in the Pithead Baths and the Miners’ Canteen, and getting to know the resident miners on site.
A spokesperson for Big Pit said:
“There’s always been a close connection with sport and heavy industry – in particular coal mining and rugby union, with many miners taking part from club to international level. The tough physicality of the industry carried on to the rugby pitch and we are pleased to have welcomed the Ospreys to Big Pit, and hope they sensed the special connection between coal, rugby and the Welsh community and life.”
Allen Clarke, interim Head Coach, said:
“It was fantastic to be able to visit the Big Pit and get an insight into what life was like down the mines, something that was traditionally part of life, and rugby, in this area. It’s important to have an understanding of the culture and history of the region and what we represent, whether you are from outside of the area or born and bred here, and we are grateful to the Big Pit for the welcome they gave us.”
