Portrait: Philippe Sella – a very special EPXV guest
- Augustin Ternynck
- May 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 16
Every rugby player, past or present, knows the feeling: that childhood dream of meeting a superhero.
In Ohio, it might be Superman. In the southwest of France, it’s Titou Lamaison or Albaladéjo. For us—the eternal kids of EPXV—nothing fires the imagination quite like a shimmering rugby jersey. Not even a cape or superpowers can compete with the magic of the game.
And sometimes, dreams do come true. You meet one of your heroes—not just on TV, but in the flesh, boots on, ball in hand.
That’s what happened on a spring evening at Boitsfort RFC. As dusk settled over the pitch, out of the fading light came one of the greats—not flying, but running, as ever, with the ball tucked under his arm. For two unforgettable days, our EPXV squad—players and coaches alike—shared the field and the changing room with a true legend of European and world rugby.
Name: Philippe. Surname: Sella. International caps: 111. A man with silver hands, a magical swerve, a powerful left boot, and—most importantly—the kind of heart and grit every rugby player recognises. The kind that wins respect, on and off the field.
Our story together began just as it should—on the pitch. The legendary French back joined us for training, sharing tips, tricks, and hard-earned wisdom. You could feel the lift in the squad: everyone sharper, more focused, eager to learn. As night fell, he stayed a little longer—sharing a meal, a beer (maybe two), swapping stories and laughs. Just one of the boys.
The next morning, the man who once lit up the field for Agen walked into the European Parliament. There, he didn’t talk about trophies or tries, but about values—the human and educational values that are the real heart of rugby. For two hours, he told the story of a rural kid who found a world of solidarity, of teammates united around a single mission: defending what matters and pushing forward together through adversity. He answered every question with warmth and generosity, taking us from the muddy fields of New Zealand to the historic stadiums of England.
Later, he visited Brussels Town Hall as a guest of Philippe Close, the Mayor of Brussels—himself a rugby man and former player. The conversation in the council chamber was both insightful and inspiring, with the Mayor and his guest emphasising the life skills and values rugby gives us all, whether we played at school, in clubs, or at the highest level.
For many, Philippe Sella was just a name, a memory from old match footage. Ollivier one of our coaches and organiser of the visit summarised that - his visit brought that name to life—simply, generously, and with real impact. And when it was time to say goodbye, he left us with a few reminders:
Rugby is a beautiful sport—one of heart, courage, and togetherness. A game where respect, selflessness, and openness aren’t just words, they’re necessities.
In every match, the fast need the strong, the tall need the nimble. On the rugby field, everyone belongs.
By joining a team like EPXV, we haven’t just found teammates—we’ve found family. Brothers and sisters for life, even if we met just yesterday.
And most precious of all, Philippe left us his indomitable smile—that contagious love of life he carries like a flame. Now it’s our turn—to take that ball, pass it on, and share everything rugby has given us.
For your career, your visit, and above all for the incredible person you are—Philippe, you’re always welcome in Brussels to coach, play, and inspire with EPXV.
