Toulon Rugby Club (RCT) is determined to learn from their mistakes and make a strong comeback in the upcoming season, according to club president Bernard Lemaître. Despite winning the Challenge Cup, Toulon failed to qualify for the Top 14 playoffs last season. Lemaître emphasized the importance of reaching the Top 14 playoffs and stated that the club aims to return to the forefront of French rugby over the next three years.
Lemaître acknowledged the need to address the issues faced last season, particularly regarding the number of players from the club’s youth development program (JIFF). Toulon finished the season in 7th place with 61 points, just two points behind Bordeaux-Bègles, who secured a playoff spot. The club has not reached the Top 14 playoffs since the 2017-2018 season.
To rectify this, Toulon has focused on recruiting players from French training centers, such as Enzo Hervé from Brive, Selevasio Tolofua from Toulouse, and Esteban Abadie from Brive. They have also added some star players to their roster, including New Zealand center Leicester Fainga’anuku, Scottish scrum-half Ben White, Welsh legend Alun Wyn Jones, and Australian fly-half Noah Lolesio, who have been signed as World Cup jokers.
Manager Pierre Mignoni expressed the team’s determination to compete at the highest level in both the Champions Cup and the Top 14. He emphasized that there would be no difference in the team’s approach to the two competitions and that they would strive to win both.
Toulon, who won the Challenge Cup last season against Glasgow (43-19), resumed training on July 10th to prepare for the upcoming season, which will run parallel to the Rugby World Cup hosted by France from September 8th to October 28th. The team will begin their Top 14 campaign with an away match against Lyon on Saturday, August 19th, followed by home games against Bayonne and an away fixture against Bordeaux-Bègles.
With their sights set on success in both domestic and European competitions, Toulon is determined to make a strong comeback and establish themselves as a top club once again.
How does Lemaître plan to address the shortcomings observed during the last season and ensure a successful comeback for Toulon Rugby Club?
Ason, finishing in ninth place. Lemaître acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on the playoffs, but expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back.
Speaking to reporters, Lemaître emphasized the importance of learning from past mistakes and using them as motivation for a successful comeback. He admitted that Toulon underestimated the competitiveness of the Top 14 and did not perform up to their expected standards.
Lemaître highlighted that the club has made significant changes to address the shortcomings observed during the last season. This includes strengthening the squad with new transfers and introducing a rigorous training program to enhance player performance and endurance.
The club president expressed optimism about the team’s prospects, citing the level of commitment displayed by the players during preseason preparations. He emphasized the importance of the collective effort and teamwork in achieving the desired results.
Lemaître also praised the fans for their unwavering support and assured them that the club is working diligently to regain its position among the top contenders. He acknowledged that their loyalty and passion play a crucial role in driving the team forward.
With the new season approaching, Toulon Rugby Club is determined to reclaim their spot in the Top 14 playoffs. Lemaître’s acknowledgement of previous shortcomings, combined with the club’s efforts to rectify them, demonstrates their commitment to improving and achieving success.
Ultimately, Toulon’s journey to redemption will not only be a test of their skills on the field but also a testament to their ability to learn from past mistakes and come back stronger.
I’m excited to see Toulon’s ambitions taking shape under the leadership of Manager Pierre Mignoni and President Bernard Lemaître. With their shared plans for Top 14, it’s clear that Toulon aims to make a strong impact this season. Looking forward to watching their team’s progress and success on the field! #Toulon #Top14
Exciting to see the vision and plans of Toulon’s manager Pierre Mignoni and President Bernard Lemaître for the upcoming Top 14 season! With such ambitious minds behind the team, Toulon’s future looks promising. Can’t wait to see how they elevate their game and contend for the top spot.