Walking Rugby: Finding Joy and Camaraderie Through Adversity
In a world where heart monitors, pacemakers, and hip problems have become commonplace, a group of individuals in Torfaen, Wales, is defying the odds by continuing to pursue their passion for rugby. Despite facing health challenges that may have sidelined them in the past, these players are finding a renewed sense of camaraderie and joy through the sport of Walking Rugby.
Every Saturday morning, the Torfaen Swifts gather at Cwmbran Stadium to train and play Walking Rugby. Established in 2018 as one of the first Walking Rugby clubs in Wales, the team welcomes players of all ages and genders. For many, like 62-year-old Gwyn Reynolds, this weekly ritual represents an opportunity to reconnect with a sport they love, even if physical limitations may have forced them to hang up their boots in the past.
Gwyn, who struggles with knee issues, reflects on his journey back to the pitch with a mix of nostalgia and determination. “I never had any rugby skills, even when I was young,” he shares with a smile. “If anything, I have gotten worse. The knee is the main problem.” Despite the challenges he faces, scoring a try during a game fills him with a sense of achievement and belonging that transcends age or ability.
Among Gwyn’s teammates is 64-year-old Owen Davies, who battles diabetes, prostate cancer, and a heart condition requiring a loop recorder. For Owen, Walking Rugby is more than just a game – it’s a chance to defy the limitations imposed by his health conditions. “You are not worried or concerned when you are playing the sport,” he reflects. “It is a way to push through and show that age and ailments do not define us.”
The Torfaen Swifts comprise a diverse group of individuals, each carrying their own health burdens, from heart monitors to hip problems, diabetes to high blood pressure. Despite these challenges, the team members find solace and strength in each other’s company, forging bonds that go beyond the rugby pitch. Gareth Baldwin, the team’s coach, emphasises the inclusive nature of Walking Rugby, where everyone is encouraged to play at their own pace and level.
Walking Rugby has seen a surge in popularity in Wales in recent years, with an increasing number of clubs springing up across the country. The relaxed and non-competitive nature of the game appeals to individuals looking for a way to stay active and connected, regardless of their physical limitations. With no scrums, tackles, or kicks involved, Walking Rugby prioritises participation and enjoyment over performance metrics.
As the Torfaen Swifts continue to lace up their boots and take to the pitch, their stories serve as a reminder of the transformative power of sport. Whether overcoming health challenges, defying age-related stereotypes, or simply seeking a sense of community, these players embody the spirit of resilience and determination. In a world where limitations abound, Walking Rugby offers a path to freedom, friendship, and fun for all who dare to join in.
As the final whistle blows on another training session, Gwyn, Owen, and their teammates gather for a post-game chat, sharing laughter and camaraderie in equal measure. In the game of Walking Rugby, the real victory lies not in the number of tries scored but in the bonds forged and the obstacles overcome along the way. And for the Torfaen Swifts, the journey is just beginning, one step at a time.