Warren Gatland
Head Coach
“The Jersey welcome has been absolutely fabulous. It’s a beautiful island and the hospitality that we’ve had from the people has been absolutely outstanding. Swimming or surfing, a bit of boating or visiting some of the sites of the island, lovely restaurants and mixing with the people, that’s the kind of things we were looking for and something that Jersey gives us the opportunity to do for this South African Tour preparation.”
With the development of Strive, a world class training facility here on the island, it is timely that Jersey is able to welcome the Lions to showcase the new facilities. This will be key to building a blueprint for the legacy welcome of top-level athletes in the future, and demonstrate Jersey’s capability as a destination for sports tourism.
During their time in Jersey, extensive imagery was captured. The image of the British & Irish Lions sea swimming with the back drop of Elizabeth Castle hit the national press. This iconic shot that celebrates Jersey’s sense of place puts the island front of mind, or on a list of potential destinations that people might not have considered previously. The team were able to utilise Jersey as not only a place to prepare themselves for the tour physically but to also ensure that the players were able to bond as a squad.
Whilst on the island Our partners have worked hard to give the Lions a very warm welcome. The team were able to enjoy the best of the island during their R&R time; Jersey Seafaris, Absolute Adventures, Sunnyside Deckchairs, Le Mourier Marine, Go-Sail.je, La Moye Golf Club, Royal Jersey Golf Club, Jersey Zoo, Jersey War Tunnels, Channel Island Liquor Company and their own ‘Coffee Club’ with Locke’s.