Earlier this year Gary (Jock) McNeil and his wife travelled the world as part of their 3rd honeymoon and while on their travels they ended up visiting a beautiful Italian village that goes by the name of Camogli. Over a carafe or two of the most amazing Chianti wine they forged a relationship with some Italian rugby lovers. The upshot of this is that in true rugby spirit we have been approached by a couple of young rugby loving  lads from Camogli who's dream it is to travel to New Zealand and play rugby for a season.

Both have applied for working Visa's (NZ has a visa arrangement with Italy) and we are in the process of looking for work opportunities while they are in New Zealand.

Matteo and Federico are looking to arrive at Oraki on or about the 18th January (for pre-season) and will be looking to stay through until the end of the rugby season (31st August). We are seeking expressions of interest from any of our club members to possibly look to host both or one of these fine young men during their stay on these fine shores. (Jock assures me their English is good, both are house trained and are gentlemen.)

Matteo will be 21 at the start of next season, play's hooker and is involved in a rugby academy back in Camogli. 

Federico (pictured below) has recently turned 20 and plays as a flanker as I understand it. 

Email Shane if you have an interest in hosting and he can provide further details. I'm sure if on your travels you ever find yourself in Camogli (your 3rd honeymoon possibly)  that both Federico and Matteo families would return the favour in hosting you on your travels.

Rugby is about experiences, let's see if we can get on board and allow these lads to live out there rugby dream