Rugby. When the armed forces arrive in Sapiac…

The USM and the armed forces are joining forces once again. On the occasion of the reception of the Varois on Saturday, April 18, numerous activities are scheduled to highlight military professions.

“An initiative maturing for nearly nine months.” Major Laurent Quesada, head of the information and recruitment center of the armed forces, is never short of good ideas. So what better way than to take advantage of a Top 14 match to engage with the public, especially the younger audience, even though the army is attracting even more attention in these difficult times with increasing conflicts. “I initiated the first contact with the USM. I found it useful to have a joint activity, as we have values in the army that are also found in rugby: spirit of camaraderie, cohesion, fraternity, discipline, respect.” A natural fit for both partners, especially since the department, historically marked by military presence, maintains close ties with the club. “This is an action that we are obviously happy to support. As this year is the Top 14 year, we see things on an even larger scale,” explains USM communication manager Jean-Baptiste Fourcade in an empty Sapiac that will be filled facing Toulon, no doubt. On Saturday, April 18, these values will come to life starting with the early opening of the stadium. “We even open the stadium earlier than usual, at 2 p.m., so that people can fully enjoy the activities, both before and after the match.” Site will host all those present in the department, including regiments, not forgetting the gendarmerie, as well as municipal and national police.

Demonstrations, military equipment displays…

“On the synthetic parking lot of Sapiac, and even throughout the stadium, personnel will be there to showcase many professions and answer all questions. We have several hundred accessible professions for everyone, often unknown.” On the program: demonstrations by K-9 brigades, immersive stands, exhibition of military vehicles rarely seen by the general public, not to mention a spectacular arrival of the ball by parachute (or by a robot if weather conditions do not allow it). Griffon, Centaur, Gazelle, and Fardier will be accessible to visitors throughout the afternoon. An opportunity to get close to vehicles that we may not be used to seeing. Designed as “a large open day, cohesion, social activity,” the operation also aims to inspire vocations. “Come early and enjoy until after the match, with more demonstrations until 8 p.m.,” invite the organizers. In an atmosphere that promises to be festive and educational, Sapiac once again asserts itself as a meeting place between rugby and the community. And facing Toulon, a city with a strong military heritage, the nod takes on its full meaning.