The three times Grand Slam winner, who was part of the Wales squad that reached the last four of the tournament in 2011, spoke to pupils at Bassaleg School about the importance of working hard to fulfil dreams and ambitions.
Jones, who also turned out to welcome the trophy to his local club South Gower RFC last Sunday and supported pupils at Pen-y-Bryn Special School in Swansea on Tuesday, said, “That’s the great thing about the Rugby World Cup. Through the Trophy Tour, school pupils, rugby club members and fans around the country feel part of the competition, which is what makes our sport special.
“I remember seeing the trophy before the 1999 tournament in Wales and watching the opening ceremony. I was then fortunate enough to progress in the sport to the point where I captained Wales which is an incredible journey but one which is possible if you work hard and are committed to your goals.
“If some pupils go on and play rugby at whatever level or support the game as a result of seeing the trophy and watching the Rugby World Cup in the autumn, that will be a success.”
Jones ranks the 2011 experience as one of the best in his career.
“To play in a Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, the best rugby-playing country in the world, and to reach the semi-finals with such wonderful highs, and of course, lows, is something I’ll treasure forever.
“But it all starts in schools like this one and rugby is clearly in good hands at WRU school-club hubs like Bassaleg.
“Boys and girls of all ages are out on the fields enjoying themselves and that shows our game is for everyone.”
Jones believes Wales are in good shape at this stage of their preparation, but that the Dove Men Tests this summer will be the true test of where they are.
“Like many of the world cup teams, Wales are holed up in training camps at the moment, and we will only truly see what shape they’re in come the friendlies in August and September.
“We will have a better idea then, as we will about the other nations.
“However, there’s clearly a good mix in the squad. There’s a good blend between players who have the experience of playing in a Rugby World Cup semi-final and know what it takes to get there, and young players adding freshness to the side. One of my Bristol team mates, Matthew Morgan, is one of those players, he’s a young guy with a lot to prove so competition for the final squad places will be tough.
“We have an incredibly tough pool so whoever comes out of it will be in good shape to go on and do well.”
There are public opportunities to see the trophy throughout the weekend in Cardiff, as a Rugby World Cup host city. On Saturday it will be at the Tafwyl festival at Cardiff Castle between 11am and 2pm.
The festival is free of charge and brings the biggest names in Welsh arts, culture and sport to Cardiff; along with delicious street food and drink. On Sunday there is an opportunity to have your photo with the trophy in the Hayes in Cardiff between 11am and 5pm. Newport High School and the Celtic Manor will host the Cup on Monday before it makes its way over the Severn Bridge to continue its journey to Twickenham.
CLICK HERE to purchase tickets for the Rugby World Cup, which kicks off on September 18, with eight matches being played at the Milllennium Stadium.
