Shotton Steel RFC’s dedication to local community earns prestigious Welsh Rugby Union award nomination

Shotton Steel RFC Minis & Juniors have been named as one of the three finalists in the inaugural Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) Community Volunteer Awards.

Out of more than 300 rugby clubs across Wales and over 270 nominations, Shotton Steel RFC’s recognition on a national level by the WRU is a testament to the club’s commitment to engaging with its local community.

The awards “Connecting Communities Club of the Year” category recognises clubs that demonstrate strong links with their communities, promote inclusivity, and provide opportunities for all players, regardless of age or skill level.

The award’s criteria encompass various aspects of a successful and progressive rugby club.

To be eligible, clubs must showcase their commitment to being inclusive and providing opportunities for players from all walks of life.

Additionally, they should be well-structured, with a clear vision for their future growth and development.

Moreover, the award encourages clubs to establish best practices for recruiting, recognising, and rewarding the invaluable work of volunteers, who are often the backbone of community sports organisations.

We’re massively excited to be nominated as a finalist in the @WRU_Community DIOLCH awards for connecting communities club of the year. #Community is hugely important to our club and everything we do at #shottonsteelrfc #Awards #excited #wru #rugby pic.twitter.com/nVmqBHyL1r

— Shotton Steel RFC M&J (@shottonsteelmj) March 17, 2023

Shotton Steel RFC is renowned for being family-friendly, inclusive, and community-focused. The Minis & Juniors cater to children aged 2 to 16, offering training sessions, games, and support for matches with local teams.

Based at Ty Calon on Chester Road West in Queensferry, the club also supports girls-only rugby locally and is home to both men’s and ladies’ senior teams.

Ty Calon, operated by Deeside Community Trust, serves as a hub for community events, providing community education, vocational training, and sports activities.

James Parry, vice-chair of Shotton Steel rugby club minis and juniors, expressed his pride and surprise at the nomination.

“We are a small club, so to be recognised nationally by the WRU is amazing.”

“We believe sport can bring everyone together and we are extremely proud of the connections we have with our local community and the work we do.”

Shotton Steel RFC, a long-established rugby club in the area, has seen its minis and juniors’ section thrive in recent years, with membership now exceeding 70.

Throughout the year, Shotton Steel RFC holds a variety of events, ranging from fun days to supporting local charitable groups such as the Deeside Round Table in community events.

The club prioritises being family-friendly, inclusive, and community-focused, welcoming children of all genders and abilities from ages 2 to 16.

Coaches are trained to work with players of all experience levels, providing a welcoming and fun environment for everyone.

James said: “We are always looking to build our club and recruit new players to be able to play more matches and welcome more teams to our fantastic facilities at Ty Calon.”

“We have had great success with our recent fixtures playing teams from all around the local area and at all age groups.”

“We try to keep costs as low as possible and keep our fees to only £30 for the full season. The funds are reinvested into the club and to the equipment and facilities, as well as fun days, annual awards and, of course, the kids’ Christmas party.”

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) Community Volunteer Awards ceremony will take place at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on 14th April.