Ospreys (rugby union)
The Ospreys are a professional rugby union team based in Swansea, Wales. They are one of the four Welsh regions that compete in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and the European Rugby Champions Cup (or its equivalent tournament). The region was formed in 2003 as part of the Welsh Rugby Union's regionalisation of the professional game in Wales.
The Ospreys represent a geographical region encompassing Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot, Bridgend and surrounding areas. The team was initially formed through a merger of Neath RFC and Swansea RFC, two historically significant clubs in Welsh rugby.
The Ospreys play their home matches at the Swansea.com Stadium (formerly Liberty Stadium), a multi-purpose venue shared with Swansea City A.F.C.
The team's colours are predominantly black, with a secondary colour of white, and formerly included orange. The name "Ospreys" comes from the bird of prey native to the region.
The Ospreys have enjoyed success in the professional era, winning the Pro12 (now URC) league title on four occasions (2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012). They have also won the Anglo-Welsh Cup once (2008). The team has produced numerous Welsh international players and contributed significantly to the national squad. The Ospreys' performance and development system play a role in nurturing rugby talent within their region.