The partnership between the rugby club of La Rochelle and the league against cancer is extended. Born of this alliance, the Rugby Health section, created a year ago, is a success.
In 2020, the idea made its appearance. In 2022, it materializes. In 2023, it continues. Stade Rochelais announced in a press release that its partnership with the League Against Cancer would continue. “We are very happy. Our collaboration is an excellent example of the development of sport-health”, reacted Jean-Marie Piot, the president of the League against cancer of Charente-Maritime. For his part, Jean-Paul Hardouineau, president of the Stade Rochelais association, expressed his joy. “For us too, it’s an important action that complements the club’s activities well, does he support. We are delighted with the excellent relations we have with the League and we thank them for their financial participation”.
Adapted workouts
Implemented for the first time last year thanks to this link, the Rugby Health section allows people with cancer or in the remission phase to play sports despite the disease. A moment of freedom for participants “coming more and more” depending on the club.
Every Monday evening, at the Plaine des Jeux Colette Besson, touch rugby sessions take place. “This physical activity, without violent contact or tackle, is suitable for people in the prevention of cancer, chronic illness or primary prevention”, is communicated. Supervised by health professionals such as doctors, physiotherapists and nurses, the section is evolving exponentially. “It meets a need with more and more participants. They are very happy. Physically and morally, it helps them a lot”, says Jean-Paul Hardouineau. Coach of the first sessions, Steven Sparks feels a deep respect for these fighters. “They are warriors and warriors, he pointed out in April 2022 to France Bleu. To be a rugby player, you already need a certain niaque and to face cancer too”.