Australia’s squad for Rugby World Cup 2015 have been officially welcomed to the Tournament at a ceremony at the prestigious Assembly Rooms in Bath.
The event was held at the Assembly Rooms, when the team were formally welcomed by the Council’s Leader, Cllr Tim Warren, who presented them with a gift from the Council, along with representatives from World Rugby, England Rugby 2015 and RFU.
Cllr Warren (Conservative, Mendip), said: “As a former player and now supporter of rugby, I was extremely proud to welcome the team to our beautiful city.
“Bath has a rich history of rugby and we have a squad to challenge the best teams in Europe. Indeed, Bath has 12 players on Rugby World Cup duty and so I feel it was fitting that the city was chosen as one of seventeen landmark venues across England and Wales to host Welcome Ceremonies for the 20 teams competing at Rugby World Cup 2015.”
The event was attended by the Australian squad, their families and friends. Guests representing grassroots Rugby clubs were also invited to show the strength of connection between all levels of the game.
During the ceremony, which featured a performance of ‘World in Union’ from the Maynard School in Exeter, the Australian team were presented with their Tournament Caps and Rugby World Cup 2015 Participation Medals.
Four 16-24 year olds, selected from local clubs and educational institutions, acted as Cap and Medal Bearers, to represent the legacy of Rugby World Cup 2015.
Vocal Works Gospel Choir from Bath sang at the end of the ceremony.