‘Allez le Bleus’! Stade Français and Monnas join forces

Hoërskool Monument High School’s Witbul Old Boys have partnered with the renowned Top 14 French rugby club, Stade Français Paris (SFP) to launch a project that promises to give the Monnas’ rugby programme a significant boost.

In rugby circles, the move can be considered a remarkable one between that of the Springbok, the Lion (referring specifically to Golden Lions rugby), the French gallic rooster and the national team also known as ‘Les Bleus’ as well as Monnas’ Wit Bulle.

According to Belinda du Toit, the Monnas school spokesperson, the official agreement between Monnas and SFP was signed last Friday, January 17 in the VARIA Rugby Clubhouse by the relevant stakeholders.

The day also saw the kick-off of a primary school rugby clinic being hosted where staff and players from SFP were assigned to assist each training group. The clinic, which is free for age groups six to 13, takes place every Friday between 15:00 and 18:00 until February 14. Each player will also receive a training T-shirt. On top of that, Monnas Springboks and provincial United Rugby Championship (URC) players will be present throughout to either assist or help during training.

“This collaboration is set to bring immense benefits to Monnas, enhancing the school’s rugby programme, expanding student opportunities and elevating its global reputation. Monnas eagerly anticipates a fruitful and rewarding partnership that will propel its rugby to new heights.”

She added this partnership is a milestone in Monnas’ journey towards excellence in rugby and education.

“By aligning with SFP, Monnas ensures its students and coaches are equipped with unparalleled resources, opportunities and global recognition. The collaboration not only benefits current students but also positions Monnas as the ultimate choice for aspiring rugby players in South Africa.”

The partnership includes several key areas of collaboration and benefits, namely:

1. Elite rugby training and development

• Knowledge exchange: Monnas coaches and players will gain exclusive access to the SFP training ecosystem, including their pre-training centre, academy and professional teams
• Coaching webinars: SFP will host online sessions for Monnas coaches, covering innovative tactics, player development strategies and advanced rugby knowledge
• In-person clinics: SFP players and staff will participate in clinics at Monnas, starting with the junior rugby on January 17, offering young players direct exposure to international expertise
• Skill evaluation camps: Monnas players will be hosted in Paris for training and evaluations, opening pathways to join SFP academies

2. Pathways for talented players

• Priority recruitment: Monnas players demonstrating exceptional potential will be prioritised for recruitment into SFPs academy, U18, U21 and professional teams
• Prestigious competitions: Monnas U14 players will gain opportunities to compete in the Gilardi tournament held annually at Stade Jean Bouin in Paris, showcasing their talent on a global stage
• Player exchange programmes: SFP U16 and U18 players can join Monnas’ programme, enriching its rugby culture and raising competitive standards

3. Facilities and training excellence

• State-of-the-art facilities: Monnas will provide SFP teams access to its world-class training facilities, including fields and gymnasiums, during their South African visits, reinforcing the school’s reputation as a top-tier rugby institution
• Resource sharing: SFPs advanced training methods and resources will enhance Monnas’ rugby curriculum

4. International exposure and networking

• Global integration: This partnership integrates Monnas into the SFP international network, connecting the school with top rugby clubs and academies globally
• Cultural exchange: Students and staff will gain exposure to European rugby culture and methodologies, broadening their horizons and fostering global connections

5. Community and academic support

• Stade Académie collaboration: Monnas players will receive guidance on balancing academics and rugby through partnerships with educational institutions facilitated by Stade Académie
• Internship opportunities: SFP will assist in connecting Monnas students with international internships and academic support, ensuring holistic development

6. Brand and reputation enhancement

• Official partner club status: Monnas is now an official ‘Partner club of Stade Français Paris’, authorised to use the SFP logo for promotional purposes, cementing its standing as a premier rugby school
• International recognition: Association with a club of SFP calibre elevates Monnas’ profile, attracting talented young players locally and internationally

7. Opportunities for students

• Friendly matches: The collaboration allows for friendly matches and tours between Monnas and SFP junior teams, fostering camaraderie and high-level rivalry

“A special thanks goes to Dr Janu de Beer and the Witbul Old Boys committee, whose forward-thinking vision and dedication have made this collaboration a reality, benefitting ‘Monumentare’, its supporters and the wider community. The future of Monnas rugby is brighter than ever and the Witbul spirit is ready to soar!”