The president of Colomiers Rugby speaks with pride about the different stages of this great project which will change the life of the professional team.
President, first of all, when did you have the idea of having a training center?
The idea was already there 10 years ago but we were stuck financially. At that time, the club had, let's say, other priorities because in concrete terms this project could not bring us any money. We first expanded our match experience offering with the creations of the goal box and then the terraces. Economic health allowing us to do so, we then began long discussions with the staff to bring this project to fruition.
Did the professional team staff seem to be heavily involved in the project?
It had to be done and their opinion was needed, they are the first to be affected. Julien Sarraute (the head coach, editor's note) and I discussed it extensively and the professional sector was obliged to have this tool.
Now that it's done, how do you feel?
We are very proud to have achieved this. And then it looks good! 780 m2 on two levels with 4 distinct zones combining sports and living spaces. 2 adapted meeting rooms, private office for staff, offices with screens for video work, recovery area with hot and cold baths, changing rooms, physio room, osteo room… In short, we went from basic but functional facilities to a training center worthy of the name.
Is it an essential tool for a team wanting to establish itself at the top of the PRO D2 table?
Yes, when we want to move in the direction of high performance we have to align ourselves. A certain number of clubs are equipped with it so we needed it to hope to compete. In addition, it motivates players to give more by evolving in a framework that combines performance and conviviality.
Is conviviality also something that characterizes your club well?
Indeed, we are attached to it. We thought about it, in particular with the large terrace where the players, the staff and I can meet. This is also the image of this inauguration with the guided tour of the premises which was provided by the staff.
