Rugby mums ready for one last match for charity

AN ANNUAL match between two teams of “rugby mums”, some of whom have never played a competitive game in their lives, will take place for the final time this month.

The groups associating themselves with Beddau RFC and Llantwit Fardre RFC – which have been specially rebranded as the Beddau Pink Bulldogs and Llantwit Fardre Pink Rhinos for the game – are busy brushing up on the rules and physically preparing for the big clash to be played in front of thousands.

The yearly charity fixture, which has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charities, has taken place since 2015 between the Pink Bulldogs and a selected opponent. But organisers have said this year will be the last.

The final match will take place on May 27 at Beddau RFC, with more than 3,000 people expected to turn up.

Leanne Thomas, who has played in each of the fixtures, said: “All good things have to come to an end which is a shame because it’s been getting bigger and bigger.

“People still want us to keep doing it but we don’t have a lot of help.

“Organising these events hasn’t been easy but they have been great.”

The event raised £22,000 in the first year and £17,000 in the second, and the groups are hoping to beat both of those totals this time.

They are now looking for sponsors, volunteers, donations, raffle and auction prizes, with all proceeds going towards charities Follow Your Dreams and Tŷ Hafan.

“There are a couple of us like me that have played rugby before, but even for me this is only my third time playing the game,” said Leanne.

“We’ve only had 12 weeks of training for it, but it’s quite brutal.

“A couple of girls have broken their bones before, touch wood there’s none this year.”

She said the team spirit in the two camps has been excellent.

“Really, Llantwit are our main rivals even though we have never played a game before against them. I hope we win. We lost last year so this year is even more important.

“But we are all very nervous. A few of us have never played rugby before. Butterflies are good but our coaches keep us focused and we will hopefully come up with the goods on the day.”

According to Leanne, international referee Leighton Hodges will be in charge on the day for the third time, and she said: “He’s great.

“He keeps the game flowing and keeps us all entertained.”