 The two main sports with which the Rhondda appeared to produce quality participants were rugby union and boxing . One of the first true rugby stars to come from the Rhondda was Willie Llewellyn , who not only gained 20 caps for Wales scoring 48 points , but was also the first Rhondda born member of the British Lions . Such was Llewellyn 's fame that during the Tonypandy Riots , his pharmacy was left unscathed by the crowds due to his past sporting duties . Many players came through the Rhondda to gain international duty , and after the split between amateur rugby union and the professional Northern League , many were also tempted to the North of England to earn a wage for their abilities . Amongst the new league players was Jack Rhapps , Aberaman born , but living in the Rhondda when he ' Went North ' , eventually becoming the world 's first dual @-@ code international rugby player . 
