Neath defend 'not for girls' slogan after condemnation
Neath were founded in 1871
- Published
Neath RFC have defended their promotion for an upcoming Premiership fixture with the slogan "this one is definitely not for girls".
The wording of a post on their X account for the match against local rivals Llangennech at The Gnoll on Friday, 28 March had been condemned by players and politicians.
The original post - which included the hashtag '#NotForGirls' and ended with the message: "Stay tuned… Not everything is as it seems" - was taken down on Monday evening.
The Welsh All Blacks subsequently posted a second message which began, "Now that we have your attention…Forget the noise. Forget the outrage. Let's talk about real change".
In a lengthy explanation the club say they want to provoke debate and challenge misconceptions about women's rugby. It also apologised for "any confusion or upset caused".
Following the original post Neath were blasted on social media, with former Wales captain and current Wales Under-18s head coach Siwan Lillicrap, external writing on X: "I can't believe my eyes - shame on you @neathrfc! Ignorant, unacceptable and inappropriate."
Tonia Antoniazzi, external, Labour MP for Gower and former Wales international, wrote on social media: "Disappointing for a club with such a great history and legacy which has inspired so many women and girls to want to play and have played!
"Be good to see it taken down with an apology @neathrfc."
Wales international Cerys Hale, external wrote: "Well at least the comments section has given me some hope!
"Who the hell thought this type of marketing was acceptable?! Absolutely appalling from Neath RFC, I hope anyone associated are completely embarrassed.
"If anyone questioned why we feel the need to shout about equality."
And former Wales wing Lowri Norkett-Morgan, external posted: "Absolutely disgusting
@neathrfc. All those girls at @NeathPanthers not welcome in their own club. Shame on you."
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A Welsh Rugby Union spokesperson said: "We asked Neath to remove the post as soon as possible and of course do not condone the sentiment it contained."
The post, originally published at 18:04 GMT on Monday, was deleted shortly after 21:00 GMT.
It also read: "The new West Wales derby. Friday night under the lights.
"No frills. No apologies. Just brutal, old-school, Friday night rugby at its finest.
"This is where the bravehearts step up, rivalries ignite, and the hits shake the ground. If you crave passion, grit, and raw intensity, this is where you belong."
A graphic accompanying the post also included the message "not for girls".
Llangennech quoted the controversial original post with the message: "Fixture update. Friday night lights at The Gnoll!" The repost has since been deleted.
Neath's follow-up message, posted at 22:59 GMT, outlined the number of women who are involved with and support the club saying: "Women aren't just involved in Neath RFC - they are essential to its success."
Stating Neath RFC is a "club for everyone" the post added: "One of the fastest-growing and most important parts of Neath RFC is the Neath Panthers—our thriving women's and girl's rugby setup.
"They play a vital role in the future of our club, showcasing their skill, passion, and determination—the very qualities that define the future of Welsh rugby."