RYAN SMITH WILL FINISH MONTAUBAN SEASON BEFORE RETURNING TO CANADA

7th May 2008    From Montauban-Tarn-et Garonne website

This has not been an easy choice for me, says Ryan Smith, Canada's international back, "It has become increasingly difficult to live for such long periods away from my wife and family, who are now back in Canada." Ryan has decided not top renew his contract with Montauban after the season's end.

In June he will finish his world tour which has seen him leave his native Canada to play first in New Zealand and then in Montauban France. "In my heart, Montauban will remain my Club, It is a real family atmosphere - even if my own family are not part of it. The players have a great spirit with the coaches and the managers of the Club, but also with the Club's supporters which is wonderful. For me, the fans are very important "insists Ryan Smith. Ryan played in the last Rugby World Cup  at fly half and centre with the Canadian team, and he intends to continue playing for his country when he leaves Montauban. "I want to continue playing for Canada, which is at a very different level than here. I am counting on all that I have learned in France to help me keep my place on the National Team for some time. :

 When he returns to Canada Ryan will renew his amateur status and look for a new job. "Nothing is over yet. I would like to become a golf pro. I think this is something I can do, and I feel as at home on the golf greens as I do on the Rugby field. However, before all this, we have a season to finish with Montauban."

"I think we must do everything we can to keep our seventh place ranking in the League and why not do even better and try to offer the city a real European competition next season. To do that, we have to win all our home games and we must perform away from home. Our first meeting up is against Perpignan, at home, this Saturday. Then, and only then, can I deal with leaving the team,"

" I will continue to stay in touch with the team's results and life at the Club. These days, we have the internet and easy communication," he says in his wonderful accent from the other side of the Atlantic, and with a smile. "I have no regrets. I have learned a new language. I have learned about other ways of life and customs across the world. I will return to Canada as a man changed from when I first left." 

Men, like Ryan, who have made such a journey are lucky.