EPXV Rugby Team Elects New Bureau for 2025 and Beyond

On 30 January 2025, the European Parliament Rugby Team (EPXV) has successfully held its General Assembly, marking a significant milestone with the election of a new bureau. All votes were cast by unanimous consent, including proxy votes, underscoring the united support for the incoming leadership. This marks a fresh chapter for the EPXV, as the association continues its commitment to promoting rugby within the European Parliament and beyond.

The New Bureau

The newly elected board reflects a blend of experience, expertise, and passion for rugby, alongside a solid commitment to the values of the European Parliament. Here are the key appointments that will lead the EPXV Association into the next phase of its journey:

• President: Eric Sargiacomo Eric Sargiacomo steps into the role of President, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to the EPXV mission. His leadership will guide the team towards achieving new heights on and off the field.

• Vice Presidents:

  • Jaroslaw Bzoch

  • Arash Saeidi

  • Regina Doherty

  • Former MEP Pascal Durand

  • Former President and Former MEP Eric Andrieu

These distinguished individuals will serve as Vice Presidents, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the leadership team. Their collective experience will play a crucial role in shaping the future of EPXV.

• Secretary General: Gabriel Richard-Molard

  As Secretary General, Gabriel Richard-Molard will be instrumental in ensuring smooth operations within the association, overseeing the execution of strategic goals and objectives.

• General Manager: Philip Cordery

  Philip Cordery assumes the role of General Manager, with responsibility for the day-to-day management and logistics of the team, ensuring its efficient functioning and successful development.

• Treasurer: Antoine Larpin

  Antoine Larpin will manage the financial health of the EPXV Association, playing a key role in securing resources and maintaining fiscal responsibility for the team’s growth.

• Deputy Secretary Generals:

  • Ollivier Gimenez

  • Lise Schwimmer

  These deputies will assist the Secretary General in administrative duties, facilitating coordination and communication within the association.

Coaching and Communication Team

• Head Coach: Alain Bloedt

  Alain Bloedt takes on the responsibility of Head Coach, guiding the players in their development and leading the team to success. His experience and coaching acumen will be invaluable to the team’s performance.

• Assistant Head Coach: Romain Moortgat

  Romain Moortgat will assist Alain Bloedt in coaching duties, providing critical support and helping to enhance the tactical and technical aspects of the team’s play.

• Assistant Coach: Ollivier Gimenez

  Ollivier Gimenez will serve as an Assistant Coach, providing additional expertise to ensure the players reach their full potential.

• Head of Communication: Sebastian Reed

  Sebastian Reed will oversee communication strategies, ensuring that the association's activities, achievements, and messages are effectively communicated to the wider community and stakeholders.

• Spokesperson: Blagovitch Tichev

  As Spokesperson, Blagovitch Tichev will represent the association to the media and the public, sharing key messages and updates on the team’s activities and vision.

Support and Administration

• Administrator: Isidoros Sakkas

  Isidoros Sakkas will handle the administrative responsibilities, ensuring that all operational matters are executed smoothly.

• Members of the Board:

  • Val Flynn

  • Charles De Meyer

  • Antoine Clément

  • Nicholas Elles

  • Yannick Proto

  • Roccu Garoby

  These board members will play an integral role in advising and shaping the direction of the EPXV, contributing to its strategic goals and overall growth.

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A Bright Future for EPXV

The election of this new bureau signals a promising future for the EPXV Association. With a diverse and experienced team at the helm, the EPXV is poised to continue its mission of fostering rugby talent, promoting European values, and strengthening the bonds between parliamentarians through sport. As the team looks forward to the 2025 season and beyond, the leadership is committed to achieving excellence both on and off the field, with a strong focus on inclusivity, teamwork, and integrity.

Stay tuned for more updates as the EPXV team embarks on this exciting new chapter!