Emotional moment this Sunday, November 17 at the stadium Rugby club of Senlis. At the opening of the regional 2 match, the members of the club paid tribute to Jean-Claude Lavalléea figure in Senlis rugby if ever there was one, who died last summer.
By giving its name to the stand bordering the main field, the members of the club wanted to highlight a life devoted to Senlis rugby. President William Lepilleur, for the occasion, unveiled a plaque adorned with the portrait of the man who was affectionately called “Papi”. “You have to be inspired by him, he was an extraordinary supporter with white and black blood in his veins,” he described.
A life dedicated to rugby
Through a man who gave himself body and soul to his passion, it was an entire life dedicated to rugby that players and club managers celebrated by remembering sad or funny but always moving moments. His son, André, spoke of “his passion” and his obsession with “playing collectively”. He remembered a father who was a chef who, despite his work, did everything to be present during the matches. “At the time, he had taken over the restaurant “Le chalet de Sylvie” which quickly became the venue for third halves and a club house which did not speak its name.”
Véronique Ludmann, thesports assistant from the mayor of Senlismentioned Jean-Claude Lavallée. “The last image I have of him is when he was rushing to the center of the field at the final whistle,” she said. Thank you for giving his name to this forum.”
The legacy of Jean-Claude Lavallée
The interventions ended with a minute of applause and a photo, between the posts, of course, bringing together players, managers and the public.
The Senlis Rugby club now has 350 members. William Lepilleur emphasizes the spirit of solidarity reigning in the club, a legacy of Jean-Claude Lavallée. “The leaders are all volunteers, only the head of the rugby school is salaried,” insisted the president.
The club will be 60 years old next year
“Training takes place on Wednesday and Friday. Wednesday is dedicated to rugby school, he specifies. We now want to develop the feminization of the club.
The Senlis Rugby club calmly continues its path, the one traced by Jean-Claude Lavallée. Its members will celebrate its 60th anniversary next year. A great third half in perspective.
