The above title and graphic ‘Our Side lives Side by Side’ relates to how – as a consequence of an industrial past – even today, the majority of Welsh rugby teams, players and supporters, live side by side in closely-knit communities across South and South/West Wales.
Industrial and social change
The discovery of coal in the south Wales valleys saw vast increases in the population during the Industrial Revolution. At this time of social change rugby was adopted as a male sporting pastime. For many, Welsh rugby culture remains wedded to the working communities where it found a home in the 19th century.
Today large numbers of rugby fans in south Wales still live in close proximity to the players they see taking the field on the weekends. Well-established international players are often seen in restaurants, supermarkets and even out walking their dogs. Being able to regularly acknowledge and often have chats with high-profile elite athletes is a culture fans of – for example – English Premier League teams wouldn’t recognise.
Living side by side with male and female players who represent clubs, regions and even the nation, can and does foster a communal sense of ‘they’re one of our own’ when they take to the field.
Ready to chat: Huw Jones from Wrexham meets up with Welsh international Ken ‘The Sheriff’ Owens during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar 2022.
Rugby Nations: A few snap shots
Just a few images from the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France
More Rugby Nation: Our Side lives Side by Side photos will be added in 2024