Trophée des Ville 2018

Montluçon hosted the 18th edition of the Trophée des Villes 2018. The town, situated in the very heart of France, holds a local legend that a young boy once learnt to play Pétanque on the pavement outside his residence. That boy grew up to be Christian Fazzino, four time World Champion & nominated player of the century, a player and legend clearly admired by many. It should be fitting therefore that the Boulodrome be named in his honour.

The Christian Fazzino Boulodrome is situated on the edge of the city, under the foothills of the surrounding countryside and next to a small stream. The place seems peaceful, but in truth there was much drama unfolding inside.

32 teams came from all across France. Shirts acted as signposts and towns or cities stood out across the backs of all those taking part. Le Mans, Bourges, Monaco, Dinan, Metz to name a few. Each team represented in a uniformal team kit. Amongst a mixed age range of players were the usual young athletic crop of Pétanque players now common across France.

It is this new generation who consistently display a recognisable muscle memory reflex action as evidence of learning to play the sport from infantile years. This group of players are taught to shoot first and ask questions later, contributing to why these players have become formidable when dropped into a tactically minded team.

Last years victors and favourites for the 2018 trophy were team Draguignan, consisting of well known players Dylan Rocher, Stéphane Robineau & Henri Lacroix. Dominating their early games, it was clear to see why this town, home to many of the French national side were favourites. The crowds of spectators for Saturday afternoon’s quarter finals were left stunned, as the team of Cahors, a town in South West France & winners of the 2016 trophy delivered a world-class display to overcome the reigning champions.

After 4 days of intense pétanque, Marseille were crowned winners of the Trophée des Villes for the first time in its 18 year history. The team of experienced players were joined by the 16 year old rising star Jordan Clodic, who, as one of the youngest players in the tournament, incited the crowds into cheers with his excellent shooting.

Many of the games from the event were filmed by L’Equipe and will be aired on TV in France from the 24th December.