Cardiff Rugby’s Community Foundation has wrapped up another hugely successful half-term of rugby camps, with record-breaking demand, inspiring experiences, and unforgettable memories for young players across the region.

The camp at the Cardiff Arms Park, which sold out in just 36 hours, was once again the centrepiece of a packed day of rugby fun and development. The sessions provided opportunities for hundreds of young people to stay active, make friends, and build confidence through the game.

This year’s Arms Park camp included a special treat for participants, a trip to the Principality Stadium to watch the Wales national team’s open training session. For many, it was their first time inside the home of Welsh rugby, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already memorable week.

“It’s been slightly more hectic than usual, taking the kids to the stadium and everything, but it’s been spot on,” said Cardiff Rugby Community Manager, Bronnie Jones. “It sold out in just two days, which we knew meant it was going to be a busy one. The kids have been great, and it’s been a fab day.”

The energy and enthusiasm of the young participants were clear to see, with more than 160 children attending the Arms Park camp alone.

“Even at the end of the day, they’re still running around full of beans,” Jones laughed. “They’ve brought such great energy. It’s been a really great group, and we’re already looking forward to the next half-term.”

Jones also highlighted how special it is for the children to experience rugby in the home of Cardiff Rugby and to meet some of their heroes.

“So many of them watch Cardiff play or see the players on TV, and they can’t believe they’re on the same pitch,” she said. “Some of them had never been to the stadium before, so to go there, meet the players, and see behind the scenes, it’s amazing to be able to provide that.”

The foundation’s work is only possible thanks to the continued support from the community and its partners.

“Without our partners and the support from local organisations, we simply couldn’t do this,” Jones added. “That backing allows us to run these camps and give children experiences that could stay with them for life.”

Among the visitors to this year’s camps were Cardiff Rugby players Steffan Emanuel and Matt Young, who spent time with participants, offering advice and inspiration.

“It was a really good experience,” said Emanuel. “What the community team are doing is really inspiring. When you’re younger, you just want to play rugby as much as possible, so it’s great to see how much these kids love the game. It even helps us as players to get out and see what the next generation looks like.”

“The kids were brilliant, full of questions,” added Young. “You want to give them the answers they’re looking for, and being around that energy definitely inspires you too.”

For the community team, these camps are more than just fun rugby sessions, they are an investment in the region’s future.

“You definitely see talent coming through,” said Bronnie. “Some of the kids who started with us at under-8s are now playing district rugby. It’s exciting to watch, and it shows how important these opportunities are for young people.”

With another sold-out camp behind them, Cardiff Rugby’s Community Foundation continues to demonstrate its commitment to inspiring, supporting, and developing the next generation, both on and off the pitch.