It's been a long journey since Michael Magri, tour manager from Longlevens RFC U18 contacted us to inquire about a rugby tour for his U18s in Malta, way back since October 2023. We have since then been in constant contact with Michael to create a fantastic experience for his boys in Malta. They finally landed on our islands and Larry, our head group leader, greeted them at the airport and transferred them to their accommodation and set the tour in motion. They stayed for 4 days and we have set a perfect program for them involving a rugby match against Kavallieri U19 on Wednesday 14th Feb 2024.
On the first day we took Longlevens to the picturesque bay of Riviera, where they spent most of their day swimming, sun lounging and playing games. We also setup a tug of war where we saw all the boys battling their strengths. The dads also joined in and had a bit of help in their boat race prior to each contest. Afterwards we delivered freshly baked pizzas for them to lunch on at the beach and the rest of the afternoon was spent at leisure. Later in the evening after buffet dinner at the hotel, Longlevens group flocked to their tour home bar, a lovely pub in Qawra just minutes away from the hotel, where the group enjoyed a Karaoke night and were very well taken care of by the host.
Wednesday was match day and although the day was spent at leisure some visited the capital city of Valletta and other attractions around the islands. At around 5pm, the group made their way to Marsa Rugby Grounds, where the most awaited part of the tour was awaiting, the rugby match against Kavallieri U18s. The local boys were keen and although they could not match the intensity of the seasoned Longlevens Team, which have been playing together from their young age. Still Kavallieri put on a contest and they never dropped their heads. Longlevens won the match, but everyone present applauded the brilliant effort and performance by the local team, who amidst the difference in experience and standard, kept at it for the whole 80 minutes.
After the match both teams and parents attended the BBQ dinner at Marsa Sports Club for a traditional 3rd half in style. A great time was had by all and amongst the many games and banter more friendships and lasting memories were made. Michael also informed us that 2 of their boys visiting us on tour are eligible and interested to get their first cap for the Malta National Rugby Team and we informed, the MRFU and National Coach, Keith Hopkins, who will be assisted by Kavallieri Head Caoch, Patrice Debriere to assess their level and refer them back to Keith for selection process. It was awesome to have had the opportunity to host this lovely group of joyful people. We hope to see you again in the near future.
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Wow – we had an amazing time. Thanks to you and your team for helping us make the tour an unforgettable 4 days in Malta. The lads and parents have created unforgettable memories and the whole tour embodied the rugby ethos. The Maltese rugby lads where fantastic hosts and I hope they enjoyed the experience as much as the Longlevens U18s did.
Michael Magri
Longlevens U18 RFC Team Manager
It is great to be able to link up with such fond rugby people. The game of rugby is best shared with the right spirit and all Longlevens players, coaches, management and even parents shared the same passion to make this another fantastic experience on our islands.
Wish you all a safe return, happy to have met you all!
Pierre Azzopardi
Sundreams Travel Team
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