2023-1 - Flipbook - Page 66
Our orst Rugby Tour to Berlin was for Harvard University RFC back in 2011. Taking time out
from studying at the World9s #1 establishment, the team played Rugby Klub 803 Berlin
& Hohen Neuendorf before travelling to Prague for the second leg of their tour.
Berlin was devastated so much by
World War Two, it provoked serious
debate about leaving the city in
ruins and starting afresh nearby.
After decades of rebuilding has
revitalised the city, it has returned to
its edgy heyday, which was sparked
during the Cold War when a military
service loophole & massive West
German art-scene attracted hippies,
musicians,
punks
and
artists.
Combine
this
with
the
once
occupying forces of the US, UK and
French forces, Berlin is by far
Germany9s most cosmopolitan city.
You9ll stay in 9Mitte9 at the heart of
the city and a short walk to the
Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag,
Tiergarten Park & Berlin9s answer to
Times Square, Potsdamer Platz.
Berlin, given its enormous ex-pat
community
has
long
been
a
stronghold of German Rugby. With
three clubs in the top-tier and many
junior clubs nearby, there is certainly
enough to test the team on the
pitch.
The lively nature of the city makes
Berlin more suited to older teams in
the Youth Section, whilst the endless
historical sites offers much to oll the
free time with purpose.
Rugby orst made it to Germany
through British students at
Neuenheim College in
Heidelberg in the 1850s.
A national championship was
started & the game nourished &
before the war, Germany
recorded two famous wins over
France.
The sport was decimated in WW2
as many players lost their lives &
struggled to grow
afterwards as it was seen as 8too
English.9
Above Left: During their tour to
Germany with Sky High Sports,
the
team
from
Harvard
University played at RK03 Berlin.
Above Right: The
Brandenburg Gate.
imposing
Below Left: Check-Point Charlie,
the famous crossing between
West & East Germany.
Below
Right:
Visiting
the
remaining parts of the Berlin
Wall is a sobering experience.
