WRU TO INCREASE USE OF WELSH LANGUAGE
The WRU is looking at ways to incorporate more Welsh into its work and in particular by introducing a Welsh language version of its web pages on www.wru.co.uk.
A number of the Union’s staff including Wales coach Mike Ruddock and assistant coach Clive Griffiths, along with English born new squad member Ben Broster have taken up the Union’s offer of ‘starter’ Welsh lessons run by Elaine Senior of the University of Cardiff’s Welsh Learning Centre and the Wales Under 21 team, about to set off for the World Cup in Argentina will brush up on the Welsh National Anthem when they meet up next week.
Mike Ruddock said, “Everyone involved in the Wales team set-up feels Welsh to the core. I didn’t have the chance to learn Welsh in school and was thrilled to be offered the opportunity through the Welsh Rugby Union. I’ve got a long way to go yet but learning the language certainly opens up new avenues.”
Ben Broster said, “Being new to the squad, I was keen to settle in as quickly as possible. I need to learn some Welsh because quite a lot of the players speak Welsh and so we use it on the field in a lot of our playing codes. The numbers and colours are proving particularly useful.”
David Pickering, WRU chairman said, “Everyone involved in the Welsh Rugby Union feels very strongly about its Welshness. We are very aware that our fans come from all over Wales and from all backgrounds so we feel it is only right that we address the issue of our use of Welsh, particularly on our website which is often the interface between the Welsh Rugby Union and its fans.
“I haven’t been able to attend the Welsh lessons yet but I am aiming to do that over the next few months.”Â
TV and radio presenter Eleri Sion presented a framed version of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau and a set of pocket Welsh-English dictionaries to the Welsh squad on behalf of the Welsh Language Board.
Welsh Language Board Chief Executive Meirion Prys-Jones said: “The WRU is setting a glowing example to others through its decision to up its use of Welsh, and we at the Welsh Language Board are delighted with its very visible support and promotion of the language.
“We wish both players and staff the very best with their Welsh lessons and thank them for their commitment.
“We’re pleased to be presenting this specially-produced version of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau to the WRU and hope that the Welsh-English pocket dictionaries will be well-used.”
