Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 7, 2024 8:13 pm GMT
The motto “Gorau Chwarae Cyd Chwarae,” which translates to “teamwork gets the best results,” has become deeply associated with Welsh football since its adoption by the national team in 1951. As fans gear up for the first match of the Craig Bellamy era against Turkey, many may not realize that this celebrated motto has its roots in a local club, Pontyclun FC.
Origins of the Motto
Pontyclun FC, established in 1896, first embraced the motto during the 1920s, thanks to then-goalkeeper and secretary Thomas Edgar Russell. Tudor Davies, the current chairman of the club, noted that Russell valued the slogan because it highlighted the significance of teamwork. “He liked the motto because it emphasized the importance of playing as a team,” Davies explained.
Over the years, there has been playful banter between Pontyclun FC and the Football Association of Wales (FAW) regarding the motto’s origins and use. “There has been light joking over the years about who should wear the logo,” Davies mentioned. ”But it was definitely here that it was worn first, and we have been wearing it ever since.” As a club in the Ardal League South West, two tiers below the Cymru Premier, Pontyclun FC continues to honor its history while representing a significant part of Welsh football culture.
The FAW’s Embrace of the Motto
As the FAW celebrated its 75th anniversary in 1951, a notable decision was made to include a badge on the Welsh national team shirts, accompanied by a motto underneath. This is when “Gorau Chwarae Cyd Chwarae” first appeared on a Wales jersey during a match against a Rest of the UK team, resulting in a 3-2 victory for Wales. The motto was placed beneath a dragon symbol on a green background, flanked by eleven leeks, representing the team’s players.
Davies emphasized Russell’s essential role in ensuring the motto’s transition to the national team. “He [Russell] is the man to thank for ensuring that the motto was adopted by the national team.” In 2019, the motto underwent a transformation, separating it from the badge and placing the words around a daffodil on the back of the Wales shirt collar.
Current Celebrations and Matches
The significance of the motto will be highlighted again this weekend, as it appears on the back of the Wales shirts for Friday’s Nations League match in Cardiff. Simultaneously, Pontyclun FC will display the motto during their match against Swansea University on Saturday. This dual exhibition symbolizes both the national unity and community spirit inherent in Welsh football.
As Craig Bellamy takes charge of his first match against Turkey, fans and players alike can reflect on the rich history that the motto embodies for Welsh football, appreciating its humble beginnings while fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation that continues to define the game.
The continuing legacy of “Gorau Chwarae Cyd Chwarae” not only serves as an inspiring motto for players on the pitch but also reflects the values cherished within Welsh footballing culture. It resonates with the aspirations of both local clubs like Pontyclun FC and the national team, reminding everyone involved in the sport how teamwork can lead to success on and off the field.
Community Impact and Legacy
Pontyclun FC and the adoption of the motto illustrate the profound connection between local football clubs and national pride. The tagline has become a rallying cry for players, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among fans. As the players don the historic motto this weekend, both the club and the national team share a moment steeped in tradition, where every pass, tackle, and goal will carry forward a legacy that dates back nearly a century.
This uniqueness also highlights how local clubs play a critical role in developing talents who may one day represent the national team. Foundations built on teamwork in clubs like Pontyclun FC pave the way for future successes at higher levels of competition.
The Role of Pontyclun FC Today
Today, Pontyclun FC remains an essential part of its local community, providing opportunities for aspiring footballers and nurturing talent from a young age. Participation in lower leagues does not diminish the club’s importance; rather, it serves as a significant breeding ground for the next generation of players. With motivations aligned with that of the national team, the club continues to embed the core value of teamwork within its culture, preparing players for higher echelons of competition.
The marketability of the motto, now visually represented with the daffodil, enhances not just the heritage and pride of the Welsh football community but also serves as a reminder of the teamwork ethos required to succeed at any level. By celebrating the motto in their matches, Pontyclun FC continues to enlighten their fans about their historical contributions while emphasizing current participation and relevance in Welsh football culture.
The Broader Context of Welsh Football
The effects of community-focused clubs extend beyond just the individual level; they contribute to a stronger national identity. From grassroots programs to international matches, the dynamism of Welsh football encapsulates shared cultural values. As players like those at Pontyclun FC take to the field, they carry with them the weight of history and the hopes of the community, echoing the principles of dedication and collaboration within the sport.
As the match against Turkey approaches, fans have begun sharing their stories and memories associated with the motto, enriching the communal tapestry surrounding “Gorau Chwarae Cyd Chwarae.” These reflections add another layer to the motto’s significance, cementing its status not only as a phrase but as a symbol of Welsh resilience, unity, and passion for the beautiful game.
The words remind both players and fans that teamwork is important. They also highlight how working together can make a big difference in sports and in our communities. Whether it’s a big national game or a local match, the excitement of thrilling games, hard practice, and community support is alive and well in Welsh football.
