Aircraft servicing company, GE Aviation Wales has shown its support for the future of Welsh rugby by pledging sponsorship to Pontypridd Schools Rugby Union.
The Nantgarw-based company has agreed to sponsor the under 15s team for 2011/2012 season, enabling the team to purchase brand new kit.
On the sponsorship, Rhys Williams, former Welsh international and Government & Business Relations Leader at GE Aviation Wales said: "Local rugby teams are at the heart the game in Wales. We are pleased to be able to support Pontypridd Schools Rugby Union and hopefully this sponsorship will allow the team to concentrate on the season ahead and developing its players."
"Naturally, with the upcoming London 2012 Olympic Games there is a big focus on encouraging more youngsters to get involved in sporting activities. As an Olympic sponsor, we are delighted to be able to help support and promote sporting activities on a local level and encourage as many youngsters as possible to take up some form of sport or physical activity this year."
Pontypridd Schools Rugby is made up of youngsters from across seven local comprehensive schools including Y-Pant, Hawthorn, Pontypridd High, Garth Olwg, Bryncelynnog, Hawthorn and Cardinal Newman. The Union aims to foster talent through high level coaching and developing players from a young age.
Secretary of Pontypridd Schools Rugby Union, Gerwyn Caffery said: "We are delighted to have GE Aviation Wales on board as sponsors and are grateful for their support. Rugby at this level is all about giving youngsters easy access to the sport, about teaching them the value of team spirit and helping to develop their talent.
"This sponsorship will enable us to focus on further improving our game rather than worrying about the costly expenses of new kit. On behalf of the team I would like to say a big thank you to GE Aviation Wales for their generosity and support."