From toulouse to Auvergne: A Rugby Communication Journey

How did you arrive in Auvergne?

I am originally from Toulouse and played rugby at Stade for several years, until adulthood. Afterwards, I moved to Nîmes. I worked as an engineer in molecular biology, while continuing to play rugby. Then, I learned that the Montpellier club, nearby, was seeking someone to enhance the club’s brand image, coinciding with their takeover of the Yves du Manoir stadium. This is how I became a communicator in rugby. I stayed in Montpellier for three seasons, until the 2007 world Cup in France. During the competition, I worked on welcoming the Australian players, who were training in Yves-du-Manoir. Following the World Cup, I was contacted by the ASM.

At this period, sports communication, particularly in rugby, was still in its infancy?

We were truly at the beginning. Almost 20 years ago, our primary communication channel was the press. Then, it shifted to websites, and later, social networks took over. Today, clubs are developing social networks, which complement the work the press does.

When you arrive in Auvergne,what happens?

When I arrived in 2007,the club was thriving. I had family ties to Clermont, so I knew the club well, as did Jean-Marc Lhermet. I was thrilled as Montpellier is a relatively apathetic habitat with few fans and limited popular enthusiasm. I knew that Clermont would be completely different!

Some time after your arrival, there was finally this championship title, won in 2010…

Yes, the title came after three lost finals in 2007, 2008, and 2009. It was a culmination of something historic for the club, the region, and everyone who loves it. The perception and spotlight on Clermont began to change. I believe all rugby fans were happy to see Clermont win that title. Even I, being from Toulouse, had friends from the region who told me frankly, “We’re happy this club finally won something and received the recognition it deserves.”

Does a Toulouse-Clermont match necessarily remain special for you?

Yes, it’s true. Less and less, however, because I…