Firstly my name is Chris Dodd and I have been working with Harlequins for the last four years with their community department. I would like to thank Harlequins for allowing me this chance to write and update all of you on the project but also to Premiership Rugby, SESI and the British Council for this opportunity.

So with only being here a month in Araras it has been a good start to the new term. The children at the SESI site have taken to rugby like "ducks to water". That is not without a couple of speed bumps, however with a little encouragement the numbers are on the increase every session. The growing numbers has meant that an inter school tournament is being planned for the end of March which the students, as much as they don't want to admit, are liking the idea of beating their class mates at a new sport.

The teachers are also getting involved actively promoting the game here with the adult classes and the high school kids. Potentially by the start of April the teachers will have a 7s team together.

With the school rugby taking off, my attention is also on working with the local rugby club, Esparta, who with few numbers are on the increase and are looking to enter tournaments as soon as possible.

This would not be a fair write up if I didn't mention Carnival. For some of the other coaches we saw it as a chance to see some more of Brazil and took to Salvador. This was a great trip and would recommend any one to go if they are a keen fan of Music and a good time. As out here there is a lot to do and see. Particularly the old Historic parts of the town were the first settlers were.

With more events like open mornings, presentations and tournaments between SESI and the public schools watch this space for the growth of Brazilian rugby in Araras and the surrounding areas.

Please follow TRY RUGBY SP on Facebook and follow on twitter TRY RUGBY BRAZIL as there is more up to date information about all the cities.