Forget male bravado, the South Wales Scorpions rugby team will be paying tribute to mums this Mothering Sunday by sporting the logo of Christian charity Mothers' Union on their shirt collars.
They will be dedicating their Kingstone Press Championship 1 match against Hemel Stags on Sunday to mums in conjunction with an appeal encouraging people to donate the equivalent of a gift to the Mothers' Union 'Make A Mother's Day' appeal.
The idea came from Scorpions' captain Phil Carleton, whose mother Jean is a stalwart member of the charity and president of the MU branch in Durham.
Members of local branches will be on the sidelines on Sunday to cheer the team on.
Carleton said: "When I heard of the opportunity to get involved with the Mothers' Union on such an event I jumped at the chance. I'm sure I speak for all when I say without our mums, over the years, we would be lost.
"I just think about the times my mum has taxied, cheered and consoled me through my life and that's not just on the sports field. For me this is the very least we can do in giving them one day back, I know I owe mine a whole lot more. I just hope that those at The Old Parish on Sunday can give generously to the Mothers' Union collection.
"There are a lot less fortunate (worldwide) out there than us and any small contribution can make a big difference. To see some of their work and what your money can go towards please visit their website www.mothersunion.org"
Mother's Day events are being tied into the match, with a special lunch at the Scorpion's official pub, The Maltsters Arms, where patrons can receive a half-price voucher for the game. Places for this lunch are nearly sold out and patrons are advised to call 01656 732231 to book.
Scorpions' player assistant coach Paul Emanuelli added: "As a rugby league player, I know how much support families, especially mothers, give to all players however old we are.
"Where would we have been growing up without mum giving us lift to training, washing our kit, making the sandwiches or shouting from the sidelines? Not everyone is that fortunate so we're delighted to support an organisation that cares for families so much and want the best for them."
The fun continues before and during the match with family entertainment in the form of inflatable jousting.
Raye Saunders, President of the Llandaff Diocese Mothers' Union, will be at the match on Sunday.
She said: "Behind each big, tough rugby player there's usually a mum who's been keeping them in shape and holding things together since before they ever ran with a ball.
"We are thrilled that the Scorpions are highlighting Mothers' Union and supporting our 'Make a Mother's Day' appeal. Hopefully they will help us reach out to a wider circle of people. Just like players in a rugby team working together to achieve their goal, Mothers' Union members also work together supporting marriage and family life worldwide."
Normal admission price to South Wales Scorpions v Hemel Stags is just £8 for adults, £6 concessions, £5 for students, high school children for £2 and children aged 11 and under for £1. Please go to www.scorpionsrl.com for more details and to buy advance tickets.
