Cardiff Blues are pleased to affirm an increased commitment to the Welsh language as the 2018-19 season approaches.
The announcement was made as part of Cardiff Council’s #CardiffIsBilingual Day at the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff Bay.
The commitment will see Wales’ Capital Region increase their output of Welsh language content across the business.
This will see the use of Welsh in signage, communications and marketing, including artwork, interviews and videos.
Welsh language will also become a more prominent in the supporters’ matchday experience, including stadium announcements, match day music and activations.
Head of Communications and Marketing, Mike Brown said: “As Wales’ Capital Region and a business based in the heart of Cardiff, it is important that we embrace and promote the Welsh language.
“With a small administrative team at Cardiff Arms Park, it comes with challenges but the likes of the Football Association of Wales, who have advised us, have demonstrated the advantages and effectiveness of using our native language.
“Approximately 20 per cent of the population can speak Welsh, with an average of 19 per cent across our geographic region and this is only increasing with the growth of Welsh language schools and the Welsh Government’s commitment.
“We have numerous players within our first team squad who are Welsh speakers, as well as coaches, staff and supporters.
“We not only have a responsibility to support the Welsh language but it will also strengthen our identity.”
Dillon Lewis, who attended Ysgol Garth Olwg and is one of 13 Welsh speakers within the first team squad, was at the Eisteddfod to support the launch
Scrum half, Lloyd Williams, who is part of the Cardiff Blues’ leadership group, welcomes the announcement, and believes it will bring off-field benefits to squad members.
"Welsh language has always played an important part in my life, as it's something I've grown up with naturally both in my family and with my education,” said Williams.
"I'm excited to see Cardiff Blues commit to more Welsh language content in the future. There's a lot of the boys in the squad who are fluent, and you hear the language spoken around the camp all the time.
"The advantages of being able to speak in Welsh is huge. There's no doubt that it can open doors off-the-field, and offer opportunities for life after rugby.
"Being based in the Welsh capital, it's an exciting move and makes the identity and culture within the squad stronger."