Why Rugby is so important to the Welsh

We’ve reached that time again when the Six Nations is underway. Fans in six countries are rooting for their teams, but there is one country that is, perhaps, a little more passionate than the others. We are, of course, referring to Wales. There are plenty of stereotypes when it comes to the Welsh. They can all sing. They have the most sheep on their mountains. The language sounds like you are clearing your throat. Then there is the one that says that everyone in Wales loves rugby and is pretty good at it too.

When you look at legends such as Shane Williams, you can see how there may well be some truth when it comes to that final stereotype. This player is one that achieved more than any other Welsh player and one who looks back on his career fondly. What is it though that drives the likes of Williams, and other Welsh greats, to this sport? Let’s take a look.

A sense of unity and belonging

Rugby didn’t start in Wales. The sport is named after the English public school where it was first formalised and rules were created. It found its way into Wales thanks to the education system. Schools at Llandovery and Brecon were keen to imitate the English schools and so adopted the game themselves.

The late 19th century was a time when Wales was prosperous. Coal mining was at its height and there were plenty of people coming from England for work. While the English struggled with the Welsh language, they understood rugby! This sport saw immigrants forming bonds with the Welsh and allowing for a true sense of community and acceptance.

The Welsh are pretty darn good at it!

If you are a Welsh sports fan then let’s be honest – it is nice to experience some success! The reality is that this is hard to find in the likes of football. If you want to find something to celebrate in Wales, then rugby has to be the sport of choice: it is the area where the country has had its greatest victories.

Being part of three World Cup squads, Shane Williams told online betting site Betway all about the feelings of success. He recalls “ 2008 was a great Six Nations for me personally, because it was when I probably played my best rugby for Wales. We won the Grand Slam, I won player of the tournament……. That was a huge Six Nations for me, I absolutely loved it.”.

One over the English

While, in the early days, rugby was a sport that allowed the English and Welsh to bond, the reality is that it is still great to get one over the English. Rugby is the sport that allows Wales to do just that.

This allows the Welsh to put aside any internal political divides. For or against devolution, north or south of the country, everyone can still come together to enjoy kicking the backsides of the English! This is a sport that truly unites a country.