The Wales squad is proudly representing all of Welsh rugby at the Rugby World Cup this autumn, cheered on by the best support in the world both in Japan and in front of TVs throughout Wales and around the world.
The national players feel very close links to the grassroots clubs where they first picked up a rugby ball, made life-long friendships and learned so much about the game from their junior coaches, as seen in the film made to announce the squad and in the way they fondly speak about those clubs.
As the whole of Wales prepares to get behind Alun Wyn Jones’ men in Sunday’s RWC semi-final against South Africa, the WRU is asking for the views of everyone involved in the community game in order to improve the experience of all concerned.
The governing body has joined forces with the other Home Unions to gain insight into what male and female players, coaches, match officials, volunteers and supporters enjoy most about being involved in the game in Wales and what changes could improve their experience both on and off the field.
It is the third ‘Four Nations survey’ of this kind, with learnings from previous surveys helping to shape priorities in the WRU’s rugby participation strategy. The collaborative findings, in addition to other levels of consultation have driven recent reviews into referee and coach development and initiatives to boost mini, junior, schools, youth, second team and female rugby in recent years.
WRU Community Director Geraint John said, “We would really value the views of everyone in the community game in Wales, from youth and senior male and female club players, to touch rugby players and those who have stopped playing for whatever reason. We especially want to hear from all volunteers including coaches, referees, administrators and parents, without whom rugby simply wouldn’t take place.”
“Rugby is intrinsically linked to our national psyche and we are always looking at ways to ensure that continues to be the case for generations to come. The national team is doing a brilliant job of representing Welsh rugby on the international stage this autumn but our future Wales players are currently playing junior rugby in our clubs and schools, or yet to begin their rugby journey so we need to ensure there is a an enjoyable pathway for players, coaches, parents and club volunteers to nurture not only the future Wales and Wales Women internationals, but the future community players, coaches, referees, volunteers and supporters.
“We know from previous surveys that players would like to keep playing for longer but perhaps in a more flexible way to suit their busy lives or by playing a different format of the game. We also know that coaches and match officials enjoy playing an active role in their rugby community and we need to ensure their contribution is valued and enjoyable. We want your feedback to ensure we are meeting your community rugby needs.”
CLICK HERE to complete the short survey
Please note, due to the collaborative nature of this survey, it is not possible to provide the option of completing it in Welsh.
