Last week . . . well what a week! Let's start with last weekend, Brazil vs Paraguay. Attending the game as a spectator was a fantastic occasion and it is a big thank you to the CBRU for having us over. With some cracking TAG Rugby from some of the SESI kids to kick the day off, us non working coaches enjoyed a run around with them and the delights of VIP treatment whilst watching the game. Brazil made a strong start getting over the white wash with a few early tries but failing to slot some tricky kicks. After this Paraguay turned up the heat and began to pressurise the Brazilian defence, their reward was a few hard earned tries. However, Brazil were relentless and continued to turn the screw, counteracting each of the Paraguay tries with some points of their own. In the closing stages of the game both teams were tiring in the heat but Paraguay made a late effort for the line scoring in the corner and converting with a stunning kick from the touch line. Despite this effort it was not enough and Brazil finished the game off the victors 32 - 22! It was an amazing day, a very impressive standard of rugby was played and good fun was had by all!

Here in Araras we are starting to uncover a few future stars of our own. Last week was more work on respect and team cohesion and the introduction to TAG rugby full rules; I am following the Aviva Premiership School Programme rules. The kids are smiling and laughing so I am happy, although the concept of running with ball in hand is just so foreign to them which is making life a little tricky, and I will admit, frustrating. BUT we have had many good tries, some fast feet and even a few cheeky bullet passes to the wings! More of the same this week with my festivals creeping up on us and with a long holiday, a six day (YES six DAY!!) Bank holiday and exams, they are going to come quick.

Well that's all from me and my sleepy little city here in Brazil. With Christmas and my return to the UK fast approaching I am getting as much out of this incredible experience as possible! I hope you are enjoying reading my blogs as I enjoy writing them. Stick with me for the last five weeks of term, it's all festivals, sevens Rugby and a trip to the big city and a famous market to come!

Tenha uma ótima semana irmãos e irmãs!