Scotland under-20 travel to French Pyrenees for World Championship preparation

Scotland under-20 will today leave for Font Romeu, an elite training centre in the French Pyrenees mountain range, as part of their preparations for the forthcoming World Rugby Under-20 Championship.The programme is funded by Erasmus+, a European Union project providing funding for education, training, youth and sport, and will give the squad a chance not only to work on their rugby, but also to develop other skills as they immerse themselves in a different culture throughout the trip.The 10-day high altitude training camp will culminate in a match against their French counterparts, who will also be at the same venue as part of their World Championship preparations.With both teams basing themselves at the French camp, it gives players and management an opportunity to work together in exchanging ideas and philosophies, as well as enjoying the culture on offer.Sean Lineen, Scottish Rugby’s Head of Age-Grade and Women’s Coaching, said: “Scottish Rugby would like to thank Erasmus+ for their funding, and giving our under-20 players the opportunity to travel to Font Romeu for their development as a team and as individuals. “These talented young men are at an important point in their careers and lives, and this is a great opportunity for them to grow as players and as people. “From a rugby perspective, the preparation camp prior to the World Championship will prove invaluable for the players, coaches and management alike, as they look ahead to a month of intense competition.”Earlier this week, Head Coach John Dalziel announced his side for the World Championship, in Manchester, however two of the inclusions, Robbie Nairn and Zander Fagerson, are unable to travel, the former through injury and the latter through pro-team commitments.Replacing them is Gloucester’s Alex Craig and George Watson’s College’s Lewis Berg.