Did the off-season go well?

Already it was a somewhat special off-season since after the end of the championship, we moved on to the World Cup. Once completed, all internationals resumed training in December. On the other hand, we prepared for the season after a descent, which psychologically is a bit difficult. But, it was well managed overall. We are a club under reconstruction. There are new recruits, a brand new workforce and a good atmosphere. Can’t wait for this first championship game.

Do you think you will achieve a season similar to 2021 where you entered the Super League?

Compared to last season, there is a reduction in the workforce, it’s a fact. But within this group, there is a strong motivation, desire and ambition. Part of the group has tasted the Super League and has a strong desire to return to it. After a descent, you have to go back up immediately. It is true that the favorite of the event is Featherstone. The Rovers have been recruited well, they have an excellent coach, a well-structured group. This does not prevent Toulouse Olympique 2023 from aiming to return to the Super League. Moreover, Toulouse’s place is in the Super League. When you practice a sport in Toulouse, you can only play at the highest level. For this, we must take the example of the Toulouse Stadium, the TFC, the Phoenix. Rugby League must also represent Toulouse at the highest level.

You are a recognized player. You have made the choice to stay at the TO despite the descent. Why ?

First of all, I am attached to Toulouse, I love the city. When we won the Championship in 2021, we had some extraordinary moments. When we talk about the final at Ernest-Wallon in front of nearly 10,000 spectators against Featherstone, it gives me chills. Within the club, I also coach the U 19 juniors. I like this activity and I am passionate about it. I like the club, I believe in the leaders’ project. I want to win the Championship twice in 2018 and 2021, I would like to win it a third time. It’s a great challenge to take up.

What is your take on Barrow?

It’s a well-composed team. Last year, she was in the top 4 of the championship. At home, she can count on the support of her public. It has a player who is certainly one of the best players in the Championship. It’s fly-half and scrum-half Jarrod Sammut. I played with him at the London Broncos when we won the Championship in 2018 against Toronto. He knows how to do everything. In addition, he is an excellent scorer. For this first match, we pass a very good test. Above all, we want to leave with the two points of victory.

Last season, the club suffered from a lack of public attendance. How can we bring the public to Ernest-Wallon?

The Toulouse public loves winning teams. I remember that in 2021, there were more than 7,000 spectators against Batley in the semi-finals and almost 10,000 in the final against Featherstone. Last year, we chained defeats at the start, which did not retain an audience. If you want to seduce an audience, it’s very simple, you have to win. As players, we have the responsibility and the duty to win matches.