“Bus to Paradise” was the title of the literary hit by American author Leo Buscaglia, popular in the management world. In it, the author explained that paradise is on earth provided that we take pleasure in what we do.
Could the Stade Niçois have become a case study of this formula?
In fact, how can we not wonder if paradise (oval) is not at Arboras, if we consider the statements of Christian Estrosi, Deputy Mayor of Nice, and Jacques Richier, President of Allianz France, the two partners who support the revival of Nice rugby with (almost) unlimited ambitions both body and soul… and ringing and stumbling coins?
The mayor of Nice, in addition to an annual budget unparalleled in France for a Federal 2 club, will oversee the renovation project to transform the Arboras stadium into a modern setting with 10,000 seats, synthetic turf, and boxes.
Moreover, the training fields will be increased from two to three and will also be refurbished, and finally, a weightlifting room will be provided to complete the equipment for high-level rugby.
Familiar with the economic challenges of an international company, Jacques Richier will support this journey with a substantial financial partnership (350,000 euros this season) with a multi-year program and the strength of an organization whose efficiency needs no demonstrating.
The challenge remains on the sports side, which must not miss the attractive but demanding rendezvous set by the two economic supports: The first being the promotion to Federal 1 within a maximum period of 2 years (but if it happens this season, all the better) with the aim to reach Pro D2 in the following two years.
Enough to give even an experienced manager like Tony Catoni a few worries, who knows that goals commit those who accept them, otherwise…
Besides, Jacques Richier has set the bar very high by reminding that Allianz is also a partner of the Saracens in London, one of the flagship clubs of English rugby. No less!
Something to dream about? But doesn’t one say that today’s dreams (sometimes) become tomorrow’s realities?
