YesCymru has been supporting the Wales Transplant Football Team as they prepare to take part in the World Cup of football for the first time.
Sam Murphy, YesCymru’s director for the South-West, has been proactive in raising the cause among members and co-directors of YesCymru. Sam said, “Competing in the World Cup as a Wales team is a big step for those organizing the team and playing for the team. In addition to supporting the team in Italy, it's great that YesCymru and our members will have the opportunity to support the team with their costs and help them reach the competition.”
YesCymru has adopted the team as the movement's cause for the next six months. YesCymru members had the opportunity to contribute to the team’s costs to reach the tournament, with YesCymru centrally matching the amount raised by members to ensure the team can compete.
According to Shaun Ruck, the team manager, YesCymru’s support gives a big boost to everyone associated with the team. “We attract players from all parts of the country, and for many of them, we are not just a football team but a community that supports each other as we face huge challenges. The opportunity to play in the World Cup is a big deal for all of us, representing our country on an international stage. Without YesCymru’s support, we might have had to compete as part of Team GB. But we are a nation, and competing as a nation is a huge thing in the lives of every one of us.”
YesCymru Chairman, Phyl Griffiths, said, “For us, this was an easy decision. We are delighted to adopt a cause for the first time ever, especially considering how this team offers such support to people receiving transplants. Also, seeing Wales compete on the international football stage once again is something very special.”
YesCymru has already raised nearly fifteen hundred pounds for the cause by encouraging supporters to raise money online, with YesCymru providing matched funding and also donating 10% of the donations received at the Carmarthen march, with similar plans for Tafwyl and the Eisteddfod.