Former Cymru International Danny Gabbidon joins the Cymru Football Foundation in opening a brand-new 3G pitch at Llantarnam Community Primary School in Cwmbran.
A pupil at the former Llantarnam Comprehensive School, Gabbidon spent hours of his youth playing on the adjacent patches of grass and redgra turned 3G thanks to investment from the CFF, UK Government and Sport Wales.
Beginning his playing career with Cwmbran Town, Gabbidon went on to make 49 senior appearances for Cymru in an international career that spanned over 12 years following his debut in 2002.
The new facility features a floodlit, all-weather surface and changing rooms, offering pupils and local teams high-quality venue for training and competitive fixtures.
Speaking at the opening in Llantarnam, Gabbidon said:
“It’s incredible to see how this space has been transformed. What was once just a grassy area where we played at break time is now a top-class facility for both pupils and the wider community.
“Having a mural here recognising my sporting achievement is truly humbling. I hope it inspires every young person who steps onto this pitch to believe in themselves, work hard, and most importantly—enjoy it, whatever sport they choose.”
This latest unveiling is one of two new CFF-funded 3G pitches in the borough, with a new facility having also recently opened at Abersychan School in Pontypool.
It takes the total invested into Torfaen by the CFF to over £1million, with previous investments at both Blaenavon Blues and Ponthir Sports and Community Club.
The CFF supports the development of football through investment and guidance as it delivers the Football Association of Wales’ commitment to develop inspirational fit-for-future football facilities that will improve and grow Welsh football both on and off the pitch.
Since February 2022, the CFF has invested over £18 million into supporting fit-for-future facilities across the country.
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