Cardiff Blues, Wales and British Lions star Jamie Roberts is backing his fellow Cardiff medical students’ bid for rugby cup final glory.
On Saturday 16th April 2010 at 3.00pm Cardiff Medicals RFC will take on Nottingham Medics at Cardiff Arms Park in the culmination of the National Association of Medical Schools Rugby Union (NAMS) Cup.
Hundreds of spectators are expected to attend the game at Cardiff’s famous ground including current students and alumni from Cardiff University as well as the Schools of Medicine and Dentistry.
Jamie Roberts, a Cardiff medical student himself, said: “The NAMS final promises to be another exciting and hotly contested game and a must view not only for Cardiff medical students, their friends and families, but for Cardiff’s many rugby enthusiasts.
“Whilst I won’t be playing in the game myself, I’ll certainly be cheering and supporting the boys from the sidelines and urge as many local rugby fans to pop down to enjoy the game.”
All profits from the final will go towards the Dr Jack Matthews Scholarship – a joint campaign between the University’s School of Medicine and Cardiff Medicals RFC to provide financial support for the medics of the future through scholarships, bursaries and prizes.
As well as a respected local GP, Dr Jack Matthews is perhaps best remembered for his 17 Tests for Wales and six for the British Lions on their 1950 tour of New Zealand and Australia. He was the team doctor for the 1980 British Lions tour to South Africa and played centre for Wales and Cardiff – forming one of the greatest midfield pairings Wales has ever had with Bleddyn Williams.
This year’s recipients of the Dr Jack Matthews scholarships will support local Cardiff projects and projects in some of the world’s most underdeveloped healthcare systems.
Jamie added: “Dr Jack Matthews is not only a legendary rugby figure but was a highly respected local GP. It’s only right that the Scholarships bear his name and help recognise his massive contribution to the game. As well as winning the NAMS final I hope we can help raise as much money as possible for this important fund.”
The final takes place on Saturday 16th April at Cardiff Arms Park, kick-off at 3pm. Entrance is £5 on the gate.
