Back to Brazil. Well yet another week is ticking past here in Brazil and it feels like time is starting to slip by. With only 7-8 weeks left of term time, more festivals are on the horizon and the kids are really starting to love the game. This week's focus was on communication in passing and on the philosophies and unique qualities of rugby. Now, as incredible as it is over here and as friendly and welcoming as the people have been to us, the structure and way of life in terms of how they treat each other is very . . . football. This week I have been outlining the key elements that make rugby a truly unique game off the pitch as well as on it. Respect, teamwork and communication have been key focus points, using multi directional games that involve every player to generate an appreciation and respect for one another. It seems to be going well! Discipline is very different here as the children have much more freedom to do as they wish and the teachers seem powerless to stop them. This is all politics and isn't worth getting into but it is a fascinating learning curve for me as a coach / teacher. Also the kids are not allowed to play in the rain . . . this shall be remedied!

Some of the older classes are really starting to grasp the concept of the game, mastering decision making skills and further developing their ability to catch and pass a rugby ball. Although they all still want it to spin like a bullet pass. I haven't been showing off I promise! The youngsters still have a smile on their face so I am a happy foreigner. Next week it's time to start building the TAG game so we can play our festivals. After that, watch out Adrian I can feel Tatui vs Araras round the corner! You may have a giant school compared to me but the bigger they are the harder they fall! Isn't that right Mr. Care and Mr. Dickson?!

Well that's all for this week really, the heat is getting hotter and there is much more to come I am told as well as a rainy season. But much to look forward to: festivals, competitions and Brazil vs Paraquay in an RWC 2015 qualifier which we have been invited to!

Don't worry I will get a full match report sorted for you guys!

Tchau

Chris