Player Portrait: Hicham El Fergui, cook at the European Parliament and scrum-half on the European Parliament XV Rugby Team

Hicham El Fergui (l) with EPXV captain Roccu Garoby

playing rugby was the sport that matched my physical attributes and core values

Let's start at the beginning, with your discovery of rugby: what was it like for you?

I first discovered rugby when I was ten years old during a field day at my elementary school. A number of external teachers came to our school to give a rugby demonstration. At that stage I was doing athletics and at first, I felt like a fish-out-of-water handling this strange-shaped ball. My first real rugby experience was being a ball boy at the Morocco V Germany match back in 1992. Fast-forward to 2000, having preserved with my rugby playing, I was invited to join the Moroccan National XV Team, and the National University Team playing between 2002-2006. I was fortunate enough to take part in the 2003 African Rugby Cup, which was by Morocco, and even featured on the scoresheet for Tunisia V Cameroon game.

You were trained as a scrumhalf: what does it take to be a good No. 9?

Above all, you must be extremely fit and alert. To have an ability to observe and anticipate all the movements going on around the pitch. In addition, as a scrum-half you have to be very vocal and constantly communicate your instructions to both the forwards and backs. Finally, two additional assets of a good No. 9 are quick decision-making and knowing how to handle pressure. You need be very brave in dealing with the opposition forwards, the “big guys” who always have you in their sights.

Why do you love rugby?

That’s an intriguing question, given that my brother was an athlete (a 110m hurdles champion and my other two brothers played football. How did I end up finding my calling in rugby? Truthfully, I think it after trying many other sports such as athletics, soccer and judo that I found that playing rugby was the sport that matched my physical attributes and core values.

Why did you join the European Parliamentary XV team?

Quite simply because I still wanted to play and be involved in a good-natured team atmosphere. My passion for rugby is still there! When I received a call from a friend, I thought it was a good opportunity and didn’t hesitate.

What value do you think rugby best embodies?

Without a doubt, solidarity, and team spirit! If you play a rugby match as an individual, you will most certainly lose the match. It’s all about the team solidarity and sense of common purpose. You must put your ego to one side for the duration of the match. These are some of the preconditions in order to win a match.

Is there a dream you would like to achieve with the EPXV?

Dreaming big, to be part of the EPXV selection for the upcoming Parliamentary World Cup in Australia (2027). Who doesn't want to see Australia and play rugby there?

What's your best rugby memory?

The match against the England XV team at the 2006 University World Cup in Rome! I was captain for what was a very hard-fought match despite losing 45-0. I managed to score a try during the second half, which was unfortunately disallowed! It is not every day you get to play against such a strong national team.

And what about the Parliamentary XV team?

The recent EPXV rugby trip to Scotland last November was an amazing experience. It was a privilege and a pleasure to go on such a trip with a great bunch of players both male and female. I have so many good memories on and off the pitch which I will cherish for a long time.

Your favourite rugby team?

Clearly – the one and only Stade Toulousain – European Champions and the most successful European Team – Ever!

Your favourite national team?

New Zealand XV - The famous All Blacks.