A NEATH Baker and Confectioner rose to the occasion when the Glamorgan County RFC Silver Ball competition was in its infancy. The tournament was launched in 1956, and J Norman Hunt volunteered to meet costs.He also added to his gift in providing a pennant to the winning club to hang in their clubhouse once the Silver Ball had been returned.He guaranteed funds for 10 years, and his generosity made the entire Concept possible. The tournament was the brainchild in 1955 of Glamorgan County president elect Glan Williams in a bid to stimulate interest among the 64-strong clubs. It was meant to pair the eight strongest junior clubs against Glamorgan's eight first class sides during the closing stages. However the response from the big clubs was disappointing and Welsh Academicals were brought in to make a realistic quarter-final. Birmingham-based trophy makers Thomas Fattoinni produced a silver rugby ball at a cost of £100 - and the inaugural competition aroused plenty of Interest. Taibach faced Skewen in The Gnoll final, the Ploughmen winning 9-3, and a profit of £178 was declared. And just like former England World Cup football star Martin Peters back In 1966, Glamorgan County were ahead of their time in coming up with a tournament of this nature. 60yrs on and the competition continues to go from strength to strength and this year it attracted 104 clubs.
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