Desembole, summer trip to France for 17 teenagers

The Desembolê Arca Rugby project which took place in July 2023 required 18 months of preparation from the first reflection, to the realization of the trip. This incredible project which offered an unforgettable experience to 17 young people (girls and boys aged 12 to 17) and two educators of Arca do Saber touched and involved more than 270 people, allowed us to celebrate a decade of partnership with the Pasteur Athletic Club (PAC), and all this just a few weeks before the start of the Rugby World Cup in France.

Desembolê illustrates Arca's commitment over more than two decades to realizing seemingly inaccessible projects for young people facing social challenges. 

In Portuguese, "Desembolê" evokes the idea of unraveling, resolving or simplifying complex or difficult situations. 

STAGES OF THE TRIP

First stop: Paris
The first stage of the trip to France included a number of important events, such as capoeira demonstrations and visits to key French cultural sites. The youngsters had the opportunity to train with professional players and local team from RCS Suresnes, RO Pantin and Parisis RC who has inspired them inspired them with their dedication and skills on the pitch. 
On a more cultural and historical note, the youngsters had the opportunity to explore the majestic Palais du Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, cruise on the Seine river, have fun at Asterix park and wander the corridors of the Assemblée Nationale on a private tour organized by deputy Eléonore Caroit and her parliamentary team. Finally, they had the chance to discover and visit the legendary Parc des Princes, a place full of emotions and memories of French soccer and PSG...

Second stop: Lyon

In Lyon, the youngsters continued their immersion in French culture by staying with French families and exploring the city. They met professional players and took part in a capoeira demonstration. During their stay, they visited many historic sites, such as the Ancien Théâtre, the Basilique de Fourvière, the Vieux Lyon district, the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the magnificent Hôtel de Ville, which for the occasion was decked out in the colors of the Brazilian flag. They also sampled the famous local gastronomy in a typical "bouchon lyonnais". The group was welcomed by the Lyon LOU professional rugby club, with whom they had an exceptional experience and the opportunity to visit the historic Gerland stadium

Third stop: Montpellier
The final leg of the trip focused on perfecting their rugby skills. The youngsters took part in a Beach Rugby tournament and performed capoeira demonstrations on the beach. They were joined by players from RCS Suresnes, RO Pantin and Parisis RC, with whom they formed four Franco-Brazilian teams for the Gruissan Beach Rugby tournament. The 4 teams spent three full days at Plage des Chalets for the tournament. For all the youngsters, it was an unforgettable experience of sharing and conviviality, reported in the French press (Midi Libre and Midi Olympique).
The tournament also included a Capoeira demonstration on the beach. A very special and important moment for Brazilian culture on French soil.
The last evening in Montpellier was marked by a big party with all the youngsters (the Brazilian and the French players) and the volunteers of Desembole. 

Thanks to your contribution, our young favelados are back to Brazil with a lifetime experience.

"What was most special was taking part in beach rugby in another country, something that really made an impression on me. Seeing lots of people I'd never seen before and playing rugby in a place where people live the sport intensely was incredible!Anyway, these days will remain engraved in my memory forever, and I'll always be grateful for this opportunity. Just thank you." Pablo, 16

"This will be an unforgettable experience, and I'd like to thank everyone who put their trust in us and made this trip possible." Daniel, 15

Links:

• An article about Desembole in a French rugby magazine