Carolyn Harris, Area Manager for Wales, was approached by Alan Philips, the Welsh Team Manager, who invited us to bring along a group of youngsters to meet the team and watch one of their final training sessions.

We only had a few days to organise the event as naturally the team were busy on the road to glory, but we jumped at the offer. We arrived at the Stadium, excited and happy as we were shown the away dressing room before taking the momentous walk down the tunnel and onto the pitch. Land of Our Fathers played on the PA and re-runs of past Welsh victories were shown on the big screen. Shortly after, and whilst we were dewy eyed, the Team arrived. Mike Ruddock was the first to greet the children quickly followed by all the boys. They signed various pieces of clothing, stood for photos and spent time talking to and teasing both the children and adults before treating them to a fantastic display of rugby.

Carolyn Harris commented on the day ‘It was one of the proudest moments of my life and I felt that the team really did want us to be part of this experience. They were there for the kids.’ Carolyn has since contacted the team to say a big thank you and the response was that they were very privileged to meet them. They are all wonderful caring people who took time out of a very busy schedule to spend time with us, and yet they were moved to meet us.

For the experience and the joy that the visit brought we say a big “thank you” from The Joshua Foundation and from the children. The Joshua Foundation would also like to thank Gilesports who donated the rugby shirt that the team then signed and raised £2,800 at auction along with supplying rugby shirts and balls which The Joshua Foundation gave to the children. A big thank you also to Chris at Contract Travel Services for providing transport to and from the stadium.