A team of school pupils from Powys competed in an e-sports tournament in Cardiff and came away as Welsh champions.

Ysgol Pennant, in Penybontfawr near Llanfyllin, travelled to the 2024 Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) Minecraft e-sport Wales competition for schools finals in Cardiff, which challenged them to build virtual environments based on themes such as Welsh myths and the Six Nations.

They reached the finals after competing in the initial rounds virtually, with eight schools competing each week to showcase a build based on a specific theme within Minecraft Education.

Each match was judged by experienced professionals within Hwb, the WRU and Esports Wales, with the top four teams going through through to the finals in the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

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Ysgol Pennant teacher Manon Watkins said: “After a very close few matches we were thrilled to make it through to the finals rounds. We had a very early start to Cardiff, and it was many pupils’ first time travelling on a train with myself and teacher Margaret Davies.

“They were thrilled to arrive in the capital full of enthusiasm. Having started playing Minecraft less than a year ago they were so pleased to reach a national e-sports final.

“The morning started off with the semi-final match where they had to showcase a Welsh myth.

“The final theme was revealed five minutes prior to the third match; the Six Nations. Within the five minutes our team leader had assigned roles and organised the build, the researcher had begun to share ideas and the whole team were enthusiastic and ready to build.

“Against a very skilled team, St Francis RC School, who showed such creative ideas, the team were pleased they had done their best.”

After completing the challenge and awaiting the judges verdict, Ysgol Pennant were named Minecraft Esport Cymru Champions 2024, receiving a trophy and signed Welsh rugby shirts.

According to Mrs Watkins, the judges were especially impressed with the team’s leadership, collaboration and communication.

She added: “It was certainly an unforgettable day and a lesson that no matter what kind of sport we are involved in, teamwork is key.

“Opportunities like these give young people an insight into the benefits of teamwork and digital skills that will hopefully equip them with skills that will prepare them for the future.”