Having ventured no further afield than Jersey for a Rugby tour since when at the U9 level (and having tasted the delights of Torquay, Northampton and South Wales since), the U13's this year headed off to Gatwick to fly to Verona, destination Vicenza.

Vicenza is a beautiful, historic town, with some stunning architecture, and a number of bars....

We were met at the youth hostel by our Italian hosts, who led us to a first rate pizzeria for some good grub and the odd ale. Once the kids were safely tucked up, a few ventured out for a rather late night - videos are available of a Hakka being performed at about 2am in a side street.....

Saturday morning, and all up to catch an early train to Venice. Cloudless sky, vaporetto all the way down the Grand Canal to St Marks square. Outrageously expensive coffee there while the kids kicked some balls around, then a ramble back across the Rialto bridge, quick pasta lunch and train back to Vicenza. Unbeatable.

For the rugby Vicenza had arranged a three way tie with Valpolicella. First game was against Valpolicella. Very tight 10-0 victory. Then against Vicenza we lost a thriller 12-10...camped in their 22 for the last 5 minutes, but couldn't get over the line. Final game of the night (under floodlights) was against the other Vicenza team, and it magically "all came together" for the blues, dynamic in attack and strong in defence with some fantastic support play leading to a convincing 15-5 victory.

For supper we were hosted in the clubhouse by the Vicenza parents - risotto and meat for all, then a (very) rousing singing session. The Italians perhaps didn't appreciate being asked to sing "swing low", but otherwise more than held their own. Best perhaps was when they launched into a fast song, we realised a verse in that it was "Father Abraham" - but all in Italian.

Back to town, and duty parents left in charge while a few ventured out....similar story, lots of americans in town dressed up for Halloween...also minor kerfuffle as team manager had to visit A&E between 2am and 5 am.....

Sunday also sunny - joint training session, then another game against the the two Vicenza sides. Clear victory this time, but a great game.

Bottom line, Vicenza was a great place to tour. They were fantastic hosts, and very pleased to have guests. I think (and hope) they will be coming back for a return match in March.

Many thanks are due to Mike Rimmer for organising, and all those that helped out to make it happen so smoothly and successfully.

For anyone thinking of venturing further afield on tour - the U13s strongly recommend Vicenza.

Match details

Match date

Sat 29 Oct 2011

Kickoff

TBC

Team overview