Primary School pupils meet a famous trophy to ignite interest in forthcoming World Cup

Two lucky schools from Neath were selected at random to get their hands on the Rugby League World Cup as it tours the country ahead of this year’s tournament.

Neath Primary School and Tonnau Primary School, were selected at random to have the 59-year old piece of silverware at their establishments, and their respective teams – the Gnoll Tigers and Team Tonnau, who participate in the South Wales Scorpions’ Primary Schools League – got their chance to hold the Cup.

The Gnoll Tigers players with the Rugby League World Cup.

Photos courtesy of: www.ianlovell.com.

Gnoll Tigers player Connor Moriarty said: “It’s just amazing as you see it on TV and I thought I’d never get to hold it. It’s an honour to actually be with it.”

His team-mate, Ciaran Comerford, added: “I’ve watched the Rugby League World Cup on TV. I’ve watched the rugby union one too. I’ve always looked up to the players in both codes and it’s astonishing to have it here.

“I play both rugby union and league in schools and I enjoy both. I hope to go to the World Cup game here in Neath in November.”

Scorpions’ coach Dave Clark said: “We’d have loved it if more schools were able to see the trophy and we’re sorry we couldn’t visit more schools, but for those who did see it, this was a great experience for them.

“I’m really pleased with how the schools are welcoming Rugby League into their curriculum, and everyone seems very enthusiastic about coming to the World Cup match we have at The Gnoll.”

Team Tonna with the Cup.

The World Cup trophy will be back in Neath for the South Wales Scorpions v Gateshead Thunder match on Sunday, July 28, and schools will be invited to this game to have their photo taken with the trophy. It will also be taken around a number of holiday clubs and establishments in the area on other days later in the following week.