Since 1999, young rugby players aged between 11-18 have had this answered by the RUGBY SKILLS AND FRENCH LANGUAGE PROGRAMME based near Biarritz in south west France.

The camps allow its participants the opportunity to enjoy the game of rugby in a fun atmosphere while learning a new language. This programme also includes lessons in surfing ,sailing and kayaking along with other activities such as cycling and hiking. The camp takes place at a specifically built rugby centre which includes 3 pitches, a weights room, ensuite bedrooms, a licensed kitchen and medical room, indoor sports hall, sauna/jacuzzi along with the water sports facilities. All the travel arrangements and back up is done through well know Irish travel agent JOE WALSH TOURS, who also conveniently have an office in France.

The RELATONSHIP WITH THE IRISH RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION has grown during this time and for the past three years, the IRFU have put in place a partnership agreement with the Camps to send players from the four Irish Provinces to the rugby and French facility who otherwise may not have had this opportunity.

The results has been extremely positive as the players have had the chance to form friendships through the game and have also benefitted in rugby terms from the input of the experienced coaches involved in the camps. The permanent staff include former wanderers centre and fluent French speaker Nigel Osborne, Leinster and Irish international Kelvin Leahy along with English and Harlequins player Bill Davison.

The programme provided by the Rugby and French camps has shown itself to be a varied and useful component in any player's greater awareness and education. The players have also enjoyed the chance to play against top English, Irish and French teams during the camps which proves to be an important part of their rugby development.

For More Information visit www.rugbyandfrench.com.