WELSH RUGBY LAUNCHES HUNT FOR NEW FACEMASK DESIGN

The Welsh Rugby Union has partnered with Welsh Government to launch a competition to find a new design for a facemask to be worn by Wales men’s, women’s, and U20’s teams during the 2022 Guinness Six Nations championships.

The competition comes as the WRU partners with Wales’ #KeepWalesSafe campaign following confirmation that home fixtures will be played at the Principality Stadium in front of crowds.

The competition is open to anyone in Wales under 17. The winning design will be selected by Wales’ rugby stars and worn by the Welsh squads during the Six Nations. The winner will also receive free tickets to see their sporting heroes in action on the field.

Wayne Pivac’s side will be looking to seal back-to-back titles in the 2022 Guinness Six Nations, for only the second time since the 1970s. Their title chase will begin out in Dublin against Ireland on 5th February, with home games in Cardiff against Scotland, Italy and France either side of a trip to Twickenham to face England towards the end of February.

Meanwhile, the Women’s Six Nations Championships have a stand-alone slot in the calendar with Wales’ first game against Ireland scheduled for the 26^th March, with each round of fixtures following the same order as the senior men’s team.

Wales Team Manager, Martyn Williams said: “It’s been a tough time for everybody, but it is important that we all play our part in keeping each other and Wales safe. Wearing a mask is something simple we can all do, and we’re looking forward to seeing the designs come through from our young supporters.”

“We hope the upcoming Six Nations will provide an opportunity to put a smile back on the face of the nation and having supporters back in the stadium is very important to the squad who will be excited to feel the full force of the country behind them.”

“Throughout this year’s Six Nations follow the latest guidance in Wales to help look after yourself, your friends, family and the community.” 

Eluned Morgan, Minister for Health and Social Services, said:

“Despite the challenges we have all had to face during the pandemic, Welsh rugby is still a highlight for many people and the Six Nations tournament will provide welcome relief for many as Wales aims to repeat last year’s successes.

“This partnership will help provide a much-needed reminder to everyone in Wales of how we can all help disrupt the transmission of COVID-19 by wearing a mask to protect people around you, get vaccinated to help prevent serious illness and to get tested and self-isolate so your loved ones and teammates stay safe.”

The competition will close on 7^th February, 2022. To enter the design a face mask competition, you need to email a photo of your artwork using the competition form at wru.wales to competition@WRUfacemasks.com with the subject heading Wales Face Mask Competition along with your details.   The competition winner will be notified by email within five days of the deadline.

For full details on how to enter, visit: //wru.wales/facemaskcomp

Terms and conditions:

• We must receive entries for the competition by 7th February 2022. Entries received after this date will not be considered.

• Please don’t post your artwork to us, we’re only accepting email entries and we’ll be unable to return any artwork sent in by post.

• When taking a photo of your artwork to send to us, please make sure you use natural lighting. Dark or unnatural light can result in distorted image colour/ appearance.

• We aim to inform all winners within 5 days of the closing date by email.

• All entrants must be under 17 and should ask permission from a parent or guardian before entering.

• Prizes are subject to availability. If, in circumstances beyond our control, we are unable to provide the stated prize, we will try to arrange an alternative prize of a similar value.

No cash alternative will be offered.

The Welsh Rugby Union Ltd reserves the right to cancel the competition at any time, if deemed necessary or if circumstances arise outside of our control.

Key protective behaviours to keep Wales safe:

• Get fully vaccinated by attending when invited to get your jabs
• Limit your contacts and remember meeting outdoors is safer than indoors
• Do a lateral flow test before seeing others and attending large events and always report the results whether it is positive, negative or void.
• If you have symptoms, self-isolate and book a PCR test (unless you have already tested positive on a lateral flow test).
• If you get a positive rapid lateral flow test result, report your result. Self-isolate for 7 days
• Wear a face covering in crowded indoor spaces and on public transport
• The Covid Pass will be required for entry to some events and venues.