Foreword by Lawrence Dallaglio

Rugby tours are exciting, whether it's for your country, club or school. I've lost count of how many times I've toured but one thing I'm certain of, is that they are treasured for life. Going on tour with England to the Southern Hemisphere is always a daunting task. The anticipation of how we would do, mixed with the excitement, culminated in many a sleepless night. School tours are no different. The training sessions leading up to the tour are vital for your preparation as well as team bonding. These weeks should be taken very seriously. The long hours in the gym and field will pay off during those last few minutes of any game.

One thing to always remember is that your fellow squad members, on tour, become more the players, they become your 'rugby family'.

It's this family that you will need when times get tough, and believe me, they do.

Playing in conditions and ground that one is not used to can be a daunting task. Sometimes the results don't go your way or your playing form goes array and when these all add up, home can seem a long way away. It's these tough times that you will encounter, that you need to be able to turn and get support from your 'rugby family'.

There is no 'I' in the word 'TEAM' and if you remember this, your tour will be a memorable and successful one.


Good luck and more importantly, enjoy it.

Regards
Lawrence Dallaglio