Why the only Wales rugby team with TWO world titles continues to be so important

By James Dodd

IT is a rugby team that doesn’t hog the headlines, but the Welsh rugby deaf team has played a huge role in many people’s lives.

One of these people is head coach Robert Coles.

He is now in charge of a team that was formed in 1995, when a number of clubs specifically for deaf players began to spring up all over the country.

Wales’ proudest moment came in 2002 when they won the inaugural World Cup in New Zealand, but their reputation is now well established. They were also crowned world champs at the 2018 Sevens global gathering in Australia.

Coles is one of a dedicated group of volunteers – one of whom is ex-Lions hooker Richard Hibbard, who coaches the forwards –  who helps run Wales’ deaf side.

Coles explained how important it is to be involved with the national deaf set-up and how he started to be a part of the team.

“My initial involvement was to conduct a little bit of performance analysis (PA),” said Coles.

“Having had a background in PA with Wales Women between 2010-2014, I was happy to volunteer.

“I completed one session and then at the second session I was made aware that the majority of the coaches/senior players were stepping aside for a number of reasons.

“As a result, I began coaching and have done ever since.”

Jonathan Cudd, a current player, has also stressed how much he gets out of being involved.

Cudd has been a player since the 2006/2007 season and underlined how it has been a significant part of his life.

“It has given me experiences in rugby I would never have had playing club rugby,” he said.

“It has allowed me to represent my country which I am hugely proud of.

“I have also made great friends I would never have met had I not been involved with the team.”

As well as this, Cudd highlighted a few of his best moments so far in the red jersey. One of which was winning that World Deaf Rugby Sevens in Sydney in 2018 – and defeating England in the final.

Another rmoment that will live with Cudd was “ifting the Broadstreet Cup as captain after beating England at Cardiff Arms Park in 2019.

“Having my daughter walk out with me before the game and stay with me for the national anthem was amazing,” he added.

With the announcement that both the men’s and women’s teams will be playing against the English deaf teams at Ystrad Mynach, there is a growing excitement for the event that will take place on March 7.

Cudd believes it will be vital for the growth of the women’s side, especially.

“It will be hugely significant for the Wales Deaf Rugby Union because it will be the first home international for our women’s team – who we are extremely proud of,” he said.

“The men’s team have a number of new caps who played for the first time against England at Harlow in January.

“We are entering a new and exciting time for the team and our new additions will hopefully mean the team remains strong for years to come.”

The England men’s team were triumphant back in January 15-12, whereas the Wales women’s won the inaugural match 12-5.