International feel to Conwy’s rugby academy

Apr 21 2011 by Ian Hughes, North Wales Weekly News

RUGBY is being used in Conwy to break down international boundaries.

Players between the ages of 13 and 14 from Wales, Italy and France will form a team of 26 named the European Rugby Academy.

Conwy County Council are using the project as a vehicle to help disadvantaged youths participate in awareness and character building exercises whilst promoting healthy and positive lifestyles.

The highlight of the project will take place on 24th July, when the European Rugby Academy team will assemble to participate in a 12 day activity exchange event at Parc Eirias.

There will be a full programme with Rugby training being their main activity. Various other things include going to see the Sale Sharks Rugby team, Tree tops adventure along with cultural activities and life skills lessons.

John Hardy is Head of Active and Creative Lifestyles, Conwy County Borough Council. He has been closely involved with the project development.

“The European Rugby Academy project is a unique opportunity for young people from Conwy to get together with French and Italian peers in a team environment,” he enthused.

“They will face challenges together and share an experience that will stay with them for a lifetime. We are greatly looking forward to hosting this project at Parc Eirias and will do all we can to ensure our European guests feel welcome and enjoy their time in Conwy.”

On April 15, group leaders from the three countries were invited to participate in a two day advance planning meeting, held in Conwy.

The Italian non-profit cooperative Mistral is involved as one of the project partners.

Their Project Manager, Ms Antonella Saleri, was excited about the upcoming programme.

She said: “Sport is good for health and education, our participation within the European Rugby Academy youth exchange project can only be positive for our youngsters. All of the Italian group are excited about this opportunity.”

The visit gave group leaders the opportunity to view the training, accommodation facilities and finalise project supporting documents.

In the evening all involved enjoyed watching the Welsh under 16 rugby team play Italy and the men’s RGC Team play Leicester at Parc Eirias.

There are currently no plans for activities in Italy or France.

The project has been funded with support from the European Commission’s Youth in Action Programme.