Pupils from Dylan Thomas Community School in Swansea recently enjoyed a unique insight into Ospreys life as part of the Balfour Beatty Prince’s Trust XL rugby programme.
Under the guidance of Dan Owens, WRU Coach Development Officer for the Ospreys region, 10 pupils were put through paces as part of the involvement in the programme which is designed to improve leadership and teamwork skills, encouraging individuals to express themselves through rugby.
The students participated in the Community Tag Leader award, committing themselves to six hours engagement, with five qualifying as Tag Leaders at the end.
All participants in the XL rugby programme get to enjoy a visit to the Millennium Stadium, but Dan gave his pupils the added bonus of a visit to Llandarcy Academy of Sport, where they were able to enjoy an Ospreys training session up close.
Speaking about the experience, Owens said:
“The XL rugby programme aims to improve pupils attendance, self-esteem, confidence, motivation and social skills, using rugby skills that can be applied to the worlds of education and work.
“For the pupils from Dylan Thomas who were involved, it was a great experience where they got a genuine insight into professional rugby life. Half of those participating completed the Tag Leaders award, giving them a qualification that shows they possess leadership qualities, which will help them with their future career or education path, wherever it leads them.
“I think for all the pupils one of the undoubted highlights was going behind the scenes at a training session in Llandarcy where they were made to feel a part of the Ospreys family. Hopefully their participation in the XL programme will help inspire them to want more rugby involvement.”