Touring is a fantastic opportunity and following a successful tour to Australia in 2005, I have pleasure in announcing our next venue Ontario, Canada. I have had the pleasure of visiting the many venues for the tour and I am positive it will be an experience of a life time. Touring brings a team together like nothing else when individuals build confidence, maturity, team work skills and much more. Each student will spend two weeks learning how to live in a new environment working with friends (old and new) to enjoy their stay in the country. They will get the opportunity to gel on the many excursions put into the agenda on and off the pitch.

It is a tremendous pleasure when you come up against a team from another country. I still remember when on one occasion I was fortunate enough to play against a touring Queensland State Students Side (or was it unfortunate since we lost 50 - 6!). The memories of that game, and the memories I have had from tours to France and Germany as a player will always stay with me.

It will not only be the memories of playing in, and seeing the sights, of such a beautiful country. I am sure that the billets with host families will provide the students with an understanding of the true Canadian culture, and it will make the way for many budding Anglo-Canadain friendships.

It is going to be hard work but with all hands to the deck it is going to get more and more exciting as the time grows ever closer. All I have to say is good luck to all the 27 students and 5 staff on the tour and remember keep raising those funds and keep smiling!! :

Ray Morris.

Overall Tour Organiser

Canada Rugby Tour, 2008