Sport & Education

"South Africa - Monaco Rugby Exchange" - 14.04.0215

In the framework of the «South Africa – Monaco Rugby Exchange», underprivileged South African children, who were chosen based on their athletic achievements, were invited to the Principality by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation from the 8th to the 15th of April thanks to a collaboration with the South African Rugby Legends Association (SARLA) so that they could participate in the Saint Devote Rugby Challenge.
 
Apart from the Saint Devote Rugby Tournament, the young South African athletes, as well as children from the Principality, participated in activities together both academic and recreational in order to mutually educate themselves about their cultural differences.
 
H.S.H. Princess Charlene went to visit the exchanges between the children on Tuesday 14th April 2014 at the Charles III Middle School.
 
The young South Africans received the warmest welcome possible by Monaco’s Department of Education, Youth and Sports.  The also had the opportunity to converse with students from the 6th grade classes of the Charles III and Francois d’Assise – Nicolas Barré Middle Schools, who prepared just for this occasion, a special book presenting the Principality.

At the end of the meeting, H.S.H. Princess Charlene granted the young South African rugby players’ wish by offering them a personal swimming lesson.

To conclude the day that imparted the values of sharing and generosity, the Charles III Middle School’s Headmaster made a "heartfelt request and a testimony of our affection" by proposing to the Princess that She become a patron to the Middle School which was met by joyful cheers from all the children.

In addition to these interactions, the youths enjoyed a trip to the Aquatic Centre of Monaco and visited some of Monaco’s top attractions.  The children also met with the South African players from the professional team Rugby Club Toulon and participated in a training session while there.

© Gaëtan Luci / Palais Princier