YOUNGSTERS taking part in a ground-breaking sports project are getting the chance to play in front of a crowd of thousands.

The finals day for street rugby will take place at Wrexham’s Racecourse ground before Wales take on Italy in an international friendly on Sunday.

Street rugby has been running in three areas of Wrexham – Gwersyllt, Caia Park and Plas Madoc – for the past 12 weeks.

Sessions use the basics of the regular game but with slightly adapted rules to suit the conditions.

Games take place in open community spots such as local parks and playing fields.

The project is seen as a way of curbing anti-social behaviour while making sport more accessible to young people.

Teams recently played at a festival in Plas Madoc where more than 100 people competed and watched.

Crusaders’ community manager Matt Pritchard said: “This project shows just how powerful sport can be.

“Many of the participants have really come on since session one in terms of control and discipline.”

The project is a joint initiative between North Wales Police, Wrexham Community Safety Partnership, the Co-Operative and Communities First.

Training sessions are based not only around rugby league but include other fitness elements including boxercise and football.

Tickets for Wales v Italy can be bought from www.walesrugbyleague.co.uk, the Crusaders’ ticket office on 0871 221 5911 or in person at the club shop.