I'm loving every single minute

IN THE picturesque town of Pau nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees, Joe Simmonds has found more than just a rugby club; he’s found a new place to call home.

- Mark Stevens

In what was initially a journey of uncertainty, leaving behind the familiar surroundings of Exeter Chiefs and his native Devon for the allure of French rugby, now, as he stands on the verdant pitch of Stade du Hameau, the gifted playmaker knows he has made the right decision.

The 27-year-old’s transition to life across the English Channel was not without its challenges initially. The language barrier seemed daunting, especially as he studied Spanish rather than French at secondary school. However, with the patient guidance of his team-mates, coaches and the locals, Simmonds now finds himself conversing in broken, but understandable French.

“To be fair, I’m quite lucky that a good group of the lads speak pretty good English,” said Simmonds. “It’s the same with the coaches. For me, though, you have to dive straight into it, which is what I’ve done. I feel kind of rude sometimes when the whole room is pretty much French and they’re explaining things in English just for me.

“Thankfully, people like Dan Robson, Sam Whitelock and Luke Whitelock help out as well. Luke actually speaks very good French, so it’s not too bad because you can fall back on those people if necessary. All the time, though, I’m learning more and more and it’s really helping me settle in.”