Frequently Asked Questions
By/For Team-Managers
(29th Ghent Easter Rugby - 2017 Edition)
1
1 Contents
2
3
Location..................................................................................................................................................................... 5
2.1
Where is this tournament? ............................................................................................................................... 5
2.2
What does the Domain Plan look like? ............................................................................................................. 5
Tournament Rules..................................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1
Are we required to pre-registering players, team management and officials?................................................ 7
3.2
When and where do we have to do the team registration? ............................................................................ 7
3.3
When and where is the managers meeting? .................................................................................................... 7
3.4
Do we need to bring our player’s license our medical certifications?.............................................................. 7
3.5
What are the rules of the tournament? ........................................................................................................... 7
3.6
Is it true that when receiving a red card, I am not able to play anymore, and a report will be send to my
union? 9
3.7
How many games do we play and how many minutes per game? .................................................................. 9
3.8
Why does a UK-U18 team has to play in the WR-U19-tournament, and why does that give the UK-teams a
little advantage? ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
4
Tournament Organisation....................................................................................................................................... 11
4.1
What are the tournament timings and schedules? ........................................................................................ 11
4.2
When do we need to be at the tournament secretary in the morning? ........................................................ 11
4.3
When do we need to be on the pitch before every game? ............................................................................ 12
4.4
What are the logistics on the Saturday evening regarding end of play, BBQ and themed party. Will we have
time to return to our hotel after play and before the BBQ and party so we can shower and change into fancy
dress? 12
4.5
How can I reach the liaison officers / tournament direction?........................................................................ 12
4.6
When do we get our warranty back?.............................................................................................................. 12
4.7
Do we play on artificial/synthetic pitches?..................................................................................................... 12
4.8
Don’t these artificial pitches leave burn marks, and can players use longer pats than normal shirts to
protect themselves? ................................................................................................................................................... 13
4.9
Is it true I cannot play with metal studs on these pitches? And what about blades? .................................... 13
4.10
What do I have to do to become a VIP? ......................................................................................................... 13
4.11
Can we send a referee to the tournament? ................................................................................................... 13
4.12
Where can I take some rest during the tournament? .................................................................................... 13
4.13
Will there be a place where we can erect a tent during the tournament? .................................................... 13
4.14
Where can I set up my video-recorder? ......................................................................................................... 14
4.15
Where is the nearest Swimming Pool? ........................................................................................................... 14
4.16
Where is the warm-up area? .......................................................................................................................... 14
4.17
Can I book a pitch for some Training Sessions?.............................................................................................. 14
4.18
How can I get some Training Equipment like balls, shields, cones, ...? .......................................................... 14
4.19
Can I order Rugby Equipment at a rugby shop? ............................................................................................. 14
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6
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4.20
Where are the changing rooms, and how many are there?........................................................................... 15
4.21
Do we require accreditation to enter into the tournament? ......................................................................... 15
4.22
How can I get Electricity at the tournament? ................................................................................................. 15
4.23
Are there Stationary Exercise bikes and Fitness? ........................................................................................... 15
4.24
Where can supporters see the live results of the games on the internet? .................................................... 15
4.25
Where can we find pictures of the tournament? ........................................................................................... 15
4.26
Is there internet available at the tournament? .............................................................................................. 15
4.27
Do clubs give pennants out to each team they play? ..................................................................................... 15
4.28
Can I play additional friendly games at the tournament? .............................................................................. 15
Catering................................................................................................................................................................... 16
5.1
Do we receive water at the tournament?....................................................................................................... 16
5.2
Are there sports drinks?.................................................................................................................................. 16
5.3
Are there meals/snacks/food available at the tournament?.......................................................................... 16
5.4
What are the Meal Time Slots?....................................................................................................................... 16
5.5
Can we buy food at the tournament on Friday evening? ............................................................................... 16
5.6
Why we are not allowed to bring our own food and drinks to the tournament? .......................................... 16
5.7
Is there vegetarian food?................................................................................................................................ 17
Medical.................................................................................................................................................................... 18
6.1
Are their medics or first aid foreseen at the tournament? ............................................................................ 18
6.2
How far is the nearest hospital? ..................................................................................................................... 18
6.3
Is the Emergency number 112? ...................................................................................................................... 18
6.4
Is their ice available at the tournament? ........................................................................................................ 18
Parties ..................................................................................................................................................................... 19
7.1
Is the Friday evening welcoming party really a super nice Belgian Beer evening? ........................................ 19
7.2
Is the Saturday evening party really THE Tournament Theme Party?............................................................ 19
7.3
What is this year’s Theme of the Saturday Evening Theme Party? ................................................................ 19
7.4
Am I a party pooper if I am not disguised at the Saturday evening Theme Party? ........................................ 19
7.5
What can I do between the games on Saturday and the Theme Party? ........................................................ 19
7.6
Do you organize a party on Sunday evening?................................................................................................. 19
7.7
Which bars do you recommend on Sunday evening for the After Party? ...................................................... 19
Transport................................................................................................................................................................. 21
8.1
How to get to Gent by plane? ......................................................................................................................... 21
8.2
How to get to Gent by boat/ferry? ................................................................................................................. 21
8.3
How to get to Gent by train? .......................................................................................................................... 21
8.4
How to order a low-cost bus in Belgium? ....................................................................................................... 21
8.5
Bus Transport Schedule .................................................................................................................................. 22
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8.6
Public Transport Buses and Trams.................................................................................................................. 22
8.7
Taxi’s ............................................................................................................................................................... 22
8.8
Where is the parking for coaches/buses?....................................................................................................... 23
Sleeping Accommodation: Hotels and Camping..................................................................................................... 24
9.1
Does every team have to stay in Ghent!? Either at the tournament Camping or a Hotel? ........................... 24
9.2
Which Partner Hotels give me the best value and the lowest rates?............................................................. 24
9.3
Is the camping really only 200m from the tournament?................................................................................ 24
9.4
What are the different camping packages...................................................................................................... 24
9.5
Is there breakfast included when we take a Camping Package?.................................................................... 25
9.6
Why am I not allowed to make noise at the camping? .................................................................................. 25
9.7
How does the Camping look like?................................................................................................................... 25
9.8
Is it true that all bags will be controlled when entering the camping? .......................................................... 25
9.9
Is there sanitary at the camping? ................................................................................................................... 25
9.10
Do we have to gather all our garbage at the camping and dump it into the container? ............................... 25
9.11
Do we just turn up at the camping or do we need a booking number or anything? ..................................... 25
9.12
What do we need to bring ourselves when taking a Camping Package? ....................................................... 25
9.13
Is there electricity at the camping? ................................................................................................................ 26
9.14
Can I make fire on the camping or the domain? ............................................................................................ 26
9.15
Can I purchase an air mattress at the tournament?....................................................................................... 26
9.16
Is there Laundry Service? ................................................................................................................................ 26
9.17
Are there Conference/Meeting Rooms?......................................................................................................... 26
10 Tourism & Site-seeing ............................................................................................................................................. 27
10.1
Is Gent really such a world famous city? ........................................................................................................ 27
10.2
How can I get a map of Gent?......................................................................................................................... 27
11 Miscellaneous ......................................................................................................................................................... 28
11.1
Do non-European players or staff need a visa to enter Belgium? .................................................................. 28
11.2
What if we want to come back to Ghent? ...................................................................................................... 28
11.3
What is the Weather forecast?....................................................................................................................... 28
11.4
In what Time Zone is Gent? ............................................................................................................................ 28
11.5
Where can I find a Catholic Church nearby?................................................................................................... 28
11.6
Where can I find an ATM close to the tournament? ...................................................................................... 28
11.7
To whom can I ask additional questions? ....................................................................................................... 28
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2 Location
2.1 Where is this tournament?
Both the pitches, camping, rugby village, parties, food and drinks are in the recreational domain De Blaarmeersen,
Zuiderlaan 7, 9000 Gent:
- Check out our clubhouse (where we have the Belgian Beer evening on Friday) and the main pitch:
https://maps.google.be/maps/myplaces?hl=nl&ll=51.045799,3.687206&spn=0.000894,0.001635&ctz=60&t=h&z=20
- 100m further you can find the main tournament village: with the tents for the parties, food, BBQ, ...
https://maps.google.be/maps/myplaces?hl=nl&ll=51.045447,3.684442&spn=0.000894,0.001635&ctz=60&t=h&z=20
- And 300m further you can find the camping:
https://maps.google.be/maps/myplaces?hl=nl&ll=51.048155,3.682287&spn=0.001789,0.00327&ctz=60&t=h&z=19
2.2 What does the Domain Plan look like?
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Pitches
o The pitches are located in the recreational domain De Blaarmeersen, Zuiderlaan 7, 9000 Gent
o We play at 6 pitches: A, B, C, D, E and R.
o The grass rugby pitch is the pitch indicated is named pitch R
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o
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Please note that pitches A, B, C, D and E are synthetic pitches of the last generation. Therefore the
vendor asks not to use metal studs on them: This for the warranty of the pitch but also your own
safety. Rubber studs will be available for purchase at the cash register / ticket purchase point.
Changing rooms / showers: The building indicated in red at the left on the map (between/above pitch B and
C)
The parking is indicated in the left down corner of the plan and is big enough for all coaches/buses for all
teams.
Camping: Indicated on the right of the map
Clubhouse (see also picture underneath)
o The building indicated in red on the above map, just underneath pitch B. See also this picture
o The VIP-dinner on Saturday will be held there
o This will also be the tournament secretary
The Rugby Village containing all the food and drink stuff, BBQ, Breakfast and our famous Friday Belgian Beer
Evening and Saturday Theme Party!
First Aid is next to the clubhouse
3 constantly toilets/bathrooms: between the rugby village and the changing rooms, at the changing rooms,
and at the tournament secretary. PLEASE KEEP THEM CLEAN!
2 emergency, not cleaned toilets/bathrooms: next to the Rugby Village and at the Camping
4 food stands
3 drink stands
1 ATM/cash machine at the rugby village, accepting VISA, Mastercard, Maestro, …
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3 Tournament Rules
3.1 Are we required to pre-registering players, team management and officials?
Yes, there is managers-meeting on Friday evening where you need to register your team.
Every day of the tournament itself you need to register at least 1 hour before your first game at the tournament
secretary.
3.2 When and where do we have to do the team registration?
Team Registration is from Friday evening 21h. We will provide you with all necessary information and vouchers (for
instance for the BBQ) at that time.
Teams using the camping can already pass by earlier during the day at the clubhouse to get pointed towards their
tents on the camping.
We expect every team to register on both Saturday and Sunday at last 1 hour before their first game at the
tournament secretary in order for us to verify every team is there when needed.
3.3 When and where is the managers meeting?
Friday evening at 21h in the clubhouse, which is the same place where the tournament secretary will be.
3.4 Do we need to bring our player’s license our medical certifications?
Yes you need to bring your players licenses to the managers’ meetings. Players can be controlled on request at any
time in the tournament.
Gent Rugby Football Club can't be held responsible for injuries or others.
3.5 What are the rules of the tournament?
The Tournament will be played under the Laws of the Game of Rugby Football as framed by World Rugby, and the
FIT playing rules of Touch, with the following amendments:
1. Both teams need to be 15 minutes before the game at the pitch
2. A team may change its players from game to game. Any player who has left the field (other than blood bin),
and has been replaced may not play again in the same game
3. All place-kicks will replaced by drop-kicks to speed up the game:
a. All penalty kicks at goal must be drop kicks (and not place-kicks)
b. Conversion is a drop-kick
4. The sin bin will be used throughout the Tournament. The sin binned player shall stand behind the dead ball
line of the opposition’s In-Goal area. A player can be sent to the sin bin with a yellow card for exactly
a. 15-a-side: 5 minutes
b. Sevens: 2 minutes
c. Touch: 2 minutes
5. All players sent off (red card) during tournament will not be allowed to play in any game of the tournament.
A Red Card Report will be send to your union
6. Maximum players per team:
a. 15-a-side: 22 players
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b. Sevens: 12 players
c. Touch: 14 players, and there will be only one shared sub box per field
Competition Format
1. All decisions regarding seeding of teams shall be sole responsibility of the Tournament Organisers
2. Play will commence with teams in each pool playing against each other in their respective pool
3. In each pool game 3 points will be awarded for a win, 2 points per team in the event of a drawn game and 1
point for a loss. When a team is not ready on time for the kick-off or is forfeiting the game, no points will be
awarded
4. After a try has been scored, a drop kick at goal will be taken (except for Touch)
5. No extra time to determine a winner will be played in pool games
6. Players will not be allowed to play in any of the finals, unless they have previously played at least with the
team they want to play in during that final, and only with that team
7. In deciding the most successful team in each pool at the end of pool games, if two or more teams in any pool
have the same number of points, the winner shall be decided as follows:
a) the winner of the game contested between the two teams shall be the winner
b) If after (a) the teams are still tied then; the team with highest difference of points “for” minus the
points “against” in their pool games shall be the winner
c) If after (b) the teams are still tied then; the team, which has scored the most points in their pool
games, shall be the winner
d) If after (c) the teams are tied then; the team, which has received the less cards (a red card counting
double) during the whole tournament, shall be the winner
e) If after (d) the teams are tied then; the winner shall be decided by a toss of a coin
8. No metal studs are allowed on the synthetic pitches. I a player does enter the pitch with these kind of studs,
the game is immediately stopped and his team will lose the game by forfeit.
Playing time
1. The playing time will depend on the format per tournament and be indicated on the match schedule, with a
1-minute break in each game
2. In the 2 finals of the Cup and the Plate competitions, all touch judges are referees appointed to assist the
match official
3. A drawn match at any final or knock-out stage will be decided by “sudden death”. The first team to score
points will be declared the winner
a. In the Touch tournament, Drop Off Procedures will apply:
i. When the match is drawn at full time each team will reduce their playing number by two (2)
and the match will then recommence from where play was stopped. Team coaches/captain
shall determine which players will drop off
ii. Teams will continue to play in the same direction. Players are permitted to substitute as per
the normal interchange procedures during extra time. The team that scores the first
touchdown in extra time will be declared the winner of the match
iii. At the conclusion of each possession of extra time the referee will stop play at the next
touch or dead ball and each team will drop off one (1) player, In the mixed grades this will be
a male. The match will recommence from where play was stopped. Any player or team
causing delay at the drop off will be penalised at the mark for recommencement of play
iv. Once teams have reduced to three (3) players no further drop off of players will occur and
the match will continue until a touchdown is scored. Should a player be sent from the field
of play for the remainder of the match when teams have reduced to three (3) players each
the offending team will forfeit and lose the match
Injuries
1. Only medically trained persons, with the consent of the referee, will be allowed to enter the playing area.
However, at the interval, two non-playing people will also be allowed to enter the playing area.
2. A team, which can only field 15/7/6 (Fifteen-a-side/Sevens/Touch) or less than 15/7/6 players because of
injuries, may borrow players or reserves. They can borrow no more than 5 players from teams that have
already been eliminated from the Tournament. Such substitute players must be registered with the “Gent
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Tournament Secretary”. A team, which borrows a player and uses him as a replacement must retain that
player in its squad for the remainder of the Tournament unless he is injured.
All decisions other than those mentioned above, shall be the sole responsibility of the Tournament Organisers.
3.6 Is it true that when receiving a red card, I am not able to play anymore, and a
report will be send to my union?
Yes it is true. Under World Rugby regulation 17, any player who receives a red card anywhere in the world, is
automatically banned until they appear before a disciplinary panel. This regulation applies to all levels.
3.7 How many games do we play and how many minutes per game?
15-a-side:
We actually plan this the other way around. We make sure every team plays between 80 and 100 minutes per day
(depending whether it is a 1-day or 2-day-tournament). Depending on the amount of teams and tournament
schedule, the duration of games is defined. Typical this is something like 3 games of 30 minutes, 4 games of 20/25
minutes, or 5 games of 20 minutes.
Sevens:
Off course every game takes 2 times 7 minutes, except the final which is 2 times 10 minutes. We follow the typical
tournament schedules or European- or other championships, where every team plays 3 or 4 games per day.
3.8 Why does a UK-U18 team has to play in the WR-U19-tournament, and why does
that give the UK-teams a little advantage?
UK and World Rugby / European age groups don’t match. UK age groups start in September, the difference in age
between the oldest and the youngest player is often maximum 1 year. Where World Rugby / European age groups
are per year of birth, and the age difference between the oldest and youngest player is 2 or 3 years.
Hence, this makes hell of a difference when a UK-U19-team would play against a World-Rugby-U19-team:
- not only are 40% of the UK players older than the oldest European players (and from a year of birth which is
not allowed in Europa)
- even worse: 66% of the European players would also be younger than the youngest UK-player.
When a UK-U18-team plays against a WR-U19-team, the difference is less big and more balanced (but still in the
advantage of the UK-team):
- only 22% of the European players will be older than the oldest UK-player
- only 44% of the European players will be younger than the youngest UK-player and would even qualify as a
UK-U17-player
Note also that we split all youth-sections over different tournaments. E.g. typically there are 5 youth tournaments:
one for U19, one for U18, one for U17, one for U16 and one for U15.
See the image underneath for the more graphical way of seeing the difference between UK age categories and
World Rugby categories.
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4 Tournament Organisation
4.1 What are the tournament timings and schedules?
The games start each day at 9h. On Saturday we play until 19h, on Sunday until 18h.
Friday (14th of April 2017):
20h: Belgian Beer evening and welcome in our clubhouse
21h: Managers Meeting: Explanations on the organization of the tournament, detailed schedules, enrolment
(licenses etc.), and the opportunity to arrange practical details with the tournament secretary (tickets for
breakfast, BBQ, …)
Saturday (15th of April 2017)
7h30-10h: Breakfast
8h: Register your team on arrival at the tournament secretary
9h-20h:
Men and Women group games (15s and 7s)
Boys’ U19, U18 15s tournament
Girls’ U18 7s tournament
Mixed Touch tournament
18h30-21h00: All-you-can-eat BBQ
20h: Prize Ceremony of Saturday-only tournaments
20h30: Theme Party
Sunday (16th of April 2017)
7h30-10h: Breakfast
8h: Register your team on arrival at the tournament secretary
9h-19h:
Men and Women (15s and 7s): Cup, Plate, Bowl, Shield games
Boys U17, U16, U15 15s tournament
Girls’ U18 7s tournament
19h: Prize Ceremony
21h: After-Party in the historical city of Ghent: The city throws great parties on Sunday-evening, as Easter
Monday is a public holiday in Belgium
4.2 When do we need to be at the tournament secretary in the morning?
Please drop in at the tournament secretary every morning at least 1 hour before your first game to confirm your
team is there.
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4.3 When do we need to be on the pitch before every game?
Please be 15 minutes in advance of the kick-off at the right pitch.
4.4 What are the logistics on the Saturday evening regarding end of play, BBQ and
themed party. Will we have time to return to our hotel after play and before the
BBQ and party so we can shower and change into fancy dress?
We designed tournament, BBQ and Saturday theme party in such a way that you can roll from one into the other
without needing to wait. Hence we strongly recommend you to take your fabulous theme clothes with you in the
morning for the party. Typically after your last game you can hit the showers, disguise, enjoy the BBQ, and party on
the whole night long.
We strongly recommend you not to go to your hotel in between as you may lose valuable time… :-)
Please see 4.1 What are the tournament timings and schedules? For the whole timing. You may notice that the BBQ
even starts already when the last teams are playing their games on Saturday for a smooth transition.
4.5 How can I reach the liaison officers / tournament direction?
In case of problems you can call:
- Early morning and during the day: Nathan Impe, Tournament Director: +32 472 57 95 86
- In the evening and at night: Pieter Coucke, President: +32 486 91 33 15
4.6 When do we get our warranty back?
That depends on 3 different cases:
- You are staying at the tournament camping, and are brining and building and tearing down your tents
yourself:
o You will get your warranty back after the tournament, once the tent is teared down, and all your
camping-garbage is in the garbage container
- You are staying at the tournament camping, and took the Luxury Camping (the big heated tent with wooden
floor):
o You will get your warranty back after the tournament, and all your camping-garbage is in the
garbage container
- You are not staying at the camping
o You will get your warranty back after the price ceremony
Please note that:
- you can always choose to have the warranty paid back by bank transfer
- we will provide you with garbage bags at the camping
4.7 Do we play on artificial/synthetic pitches?
Please note that these pitches are synthetic pitches of the 4th generation. Therefore the vendor asks you gently not
to use metal studs on them: This for the warranty of the pitch but also your own safety. Rubber studs will be
available for purchase at the tournament.
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4.8 Don’t these artificial pitches leave burn marks, and can players use longer pats
than normal shirts to protect themselves?
Our pitches are brand new fourth generation synthetic pitches, not first or second where you had to wear long
trousers. So you don’t need any special protection.
The only thing some players do is put some Vaseline at their elbows and knees when it has been for a week 25
degrees Celsius or more, as than the pitch is hotter, the water might have dried out of it, and you have more friction
when falling.
If players want to wear longer shorts, we don’t care about that, but it isn’t really useful.
4.9 Is it true I cannot play with metal studs on these pitches? And what about blades?
Indeed, the producer does not allow metal studs or metal blades on the pitches, as they don’t provide warranty
anymore when they find a piece of metal or see somebody with metal on it.
Only studs/blades allowed are rubber or plastic.
But: We strongly recommend not to wear blades at all, as these should not be used on any kind of synthetic pitch as
they cause serious knee injuries.
4.10 What do I have to do to become a VIP?
There is a VIP diner at the clubhouse on Saturday evening. These cost 150 euro per person, and have to be paid in
advance. Please contact us at [email protected] for more information
4.11 Can we send a referee to the tournament?
If your club would have a referee that wants to join your team: Every Referee who leads games on both Saturday
and Sunday is offered a bed-and-breakfast, official referee shirt, a couple of drink-and-meal tickets per day, and a
free invitation to the exclusive Saturday evening VIP diner (which is normally 150 euro per person).
Please contact us at [email protected] for more information
4.12 Where can I take some rest during the tournament?
Players can take a rest in between the games in the changing rooms, in the tent or in the tribunes.
4.13 Will there be a place where we can erect a tent during the tournament?
No, the city doesn't allow it except on the camping (and they look very carefully during the tournament :-) ).
The tent as in the picture is possible, but there isn't that much of space for it left next to the pitches.
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4.14 Where can I set up my video-recorder?
The clubhouse has also a terrace at the first floor which might be the best elevated position to film games. Please
note that this terrace is not available during the VIP dinner on Saturday evening.
4.15 Where is the nearest Swimming Pool?
There is no pool at the tournament-domain, but at the other side of the changing rooms there is an outdoor
artificial/recreational lake with a beach where players can swim for cooling down or to relax. This lake is 100m from
the pitch.
If you would like to visit a ‘real’ pool, you’ll have to schedule and arrange transport yourself by cabs. Here you can
find a list of pools in the city, and you can click on the links to get the opening hours and location:
http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gent.be%2FeCache%2FTHE%2F
1%2F59%2F281.html
4.16 Where is the warm-up area?
The warm-up area is on the grass between the pitches and the beach, behind the goals on pitch R (the only grass
pitch in the domain), and any free pitch that you might find available 
4.17 Can I book a pitch for some Training Sessions?
If you would like to rent the pitches before or after the tournament for additional training session, these can be
ordered in advance at [email protected]
4.18 How can I get some Training Equipment like balls, shields, cones, ...?
There won’t be any equipment provided for warming up or training, no cones, no balls, no shields, .... Although you
can always buy equipment at the rugby shop at the tournament (see underneath).
The tournament itself is played with official IRB approved balls.
4.19 Can I order Rugby Equipment at a rugby shop?
No, but there will be plastic/rubber studs for sale at the ticket desk.
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4.20 Where are the changing rooms, and how many are there?
There are 10 changing rooms. These changing rooms are 50m from the pitch.
Please do not leave any valuable in these dressing rooms, as the city or any other party isn’t responsible for any lost
or stolen goods.
4.21 Do we require accreditation to enter into the tournament?
No, this is not needed.
4.22 How can I get Electricity at the tournament?
There are very limited power points available where you can charge your cell phone, laptops, video cameras, ... You
can find these in the changing rooms. Please don’t leave anything behind as we are not responsible for any thefts.
4.23 Are there Stationary Exercise bikes and Fitness?
There aren’t stationary exercise bikes foreseen by default, although the city has a small fitness in the same building
of the clubhouse with 2 stationary exercise bikes. This fitness can be rented for 10 euro/hour. Please make
reservations at [email protected] if you want to rent the fitness, and indicate which times lots (based on a firstcome-first-served).
4.24 Where can supporters see the live results of the games on the internet?
These will be put on the official Facebook-page http://www.facebook.com/EasterRugby
4.25 Where can we find pictures of the tournament?
Pictures will be regularly posted on the official Facebook-page http://www.facebook.com/EasterRugby
4.26 Is there internet available at the tournament?
No, there isn’t
4.27 Do clubs give pennants out to each team they play?
Some do, some don't :-) As a home club we like these in either case. We have a brand new clubhouse, and have tons
of these things that we want to put in it :-) We provide for every participating team a small gift. As for your
opponents, it is tough to answer...
4.28 Can I play additional friendly games at the tournament?
Yes you can! Every time a pitch is available, you can use it at own will. To find another team interested to play, just
ask them during the tournament, or make your arrangements in the weeks before the tournament via our Facebookpage: https://www.facebook.com/EasterRugby
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5 Catering
5.1 Do we receive water at the tournament?
Every team receives some bottles of water. These can be refilled, or additional bottles can be purchased.
5.2 Are there sports drinks?
The organising club (Gent Rugby Football Club) sells sports drinks during the tournament:
- 0,33 liter Aquarius (different tastes)
5.3 Are there meals/snacks/food available at the tournament?
PRE-ORDERING NOT NEEDED for our snacks:
Several snacks can be purchased non-stop during the tournament:
- Belgian Fries: Fries, Burgers, Sausages, Meat Balls, …
Others are only on specific moments:
- During the day (when there are games on):
o Italian: Pasta (different sauces) and pizza
o Healthy: Pasta salad, sandwiches, fruit, …
o Asian: spring rolls, wok, …
o Waffels & pancakes
o Tex Mex
PRE-ORDERING NEEDED for lunch and dinner (by filling in the subscription form and upfront payment)
Note that you can get up to 400€ reduction by p re-ordering your meals (see subscription form)
Saturday Evening Barbecue (On Saturday evening we have our famous all-you-can-eat BBQ with all the teams
together)
Meal deals on Friday Evening, Saturday Lunch, Sunday Lunch and Sunday Dinner.
Breakfast on Saturday, Sunday and Monday (limited) is included when you stay at the camping. (There is no
breakfast for others).
5.4 What are the Meal Time Slots?
During the whole tournament you can have the meals and snacks at your disposal. Only during Friday evening the
choice might be limited, and towards the end of the tournament when too popular meals/snacks are finished 
For teams which take the camping option including breakfast: Breakfast is served between 7h30 and 10h. On
Saturday we have our all-you-can-eat BBQ (upfront subscription required!) from 18h30 until 21h.
5.5 Can we buy food at the tournament on Friday evening?
Yes you can! See the above menu of snacks and meals. Although it might be that 1 or 2 of them are not yet available.
5.6 Why we are not allowed to bring our own food and drinks to the tournament?
Our bylaw is very strictly in the field of food hygiene and food waste. For this reason it is only permitted to use the
specific food locations. By doing so we can assure you a clean stay and a quiet night.
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Please note that bags will be controlled by the security upon arrival.
5.7 Is there vegetarian food?
Some of the snacks are vegetarian.
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6 Medical
6.1 Are their medics or first aid foreseen at the tournament?
During the whole tournament there will be onsite at the tournament:
- 2 medical personnel
Besides at the building of the changing rooms (100m from the pitches) there is a fully equipped room for
emergencies, including oxygen, defibrillator, ....
6.2 How far is the nearest hospital?
The nearest hospital to which by default all injured players will be brought is:
AZ Jan Palfijn
Henri Dunantlaan 5
9000 Gent
+32 9 224 71 11
This hospital is only 2 km from the pitch, and only a 4 minute drive.
6.3 Is the Emergency number 112?
As in most European countries, the emergency number in Belgium is 112.
6.4 Is their ice available at the tournament?
In case you need ice to treat an injury, you can ask some at the reception of the building with the changing rooms
and showers.
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7 Parties
7.1 Is the Friday evening welcoming party really a super nice Belgian Beer evening?
On Friday we organise our welcoming party for all teams and e combine this with a Belgian Beer evening. Come and
taste any kind of Belgian beer you would like to have. Don’t hesitate to send us your preferences in advance!
7.2 Is the Saturday evening party really THE Tournament Theme Party?
The BIG party of the tournament, in the party tent on the tournament ground. Besides all teams, many people and
supporters of the rugby club join the party!
7.3 What is this year’s Theme of the Saturday Evening Theme Party?
You can choose it yourself!! Like our Facebook-page, where we will soon start the voting for the Theme!
https://www.facebook.com/EasterRugby
7.4 Am I a party pooper if I am not disguised at the Saturday evening Theme Party?
You bet your ass you are!!! And you are already a party pooper by just daring to ask this question!
7.5 What can I do between the games on Saturday and the Theme Party?
1. Take a shower 
2. Participate in our famous all-you-can-eat BBQ which starts directly after the games on Saturday, and is the
natural start of our Theme Party!
7.6 Do you organize a party on Sunday evening?
On Sunday we’re tired like hell :-) Most often around 20h we finish all the beer, and head to the city centre. As the
Monday after Easter is a public holiday and nobody has to work, people go to the city centre and party. We don’t
want to miss that, and neither want you to miss that, so we organise the Tournament After Party in the city.
Please see underneath for the bars we recommend!
7.7 Which bars do you recommend on Sunday evening for the After Party?
There are many great bars throwing a party on Sunday evening of Easter, as the Monday after is a public holiday so
people love to go out on Sunday and have fun :-)
As on the map underneath:
A – Bar Des Amis
Address: Vlasmarkt 5, 9000 Gent
Entrance: Free
Description:
- The women in this bar are like props: always hungry and too many of them
- The men in this bar are like a confident winger: catches everything he wants
- This bar is next to another one we recommend (Charlatan), and in the middle of the more alternative party
hub in Ghent. On the edge of the historical centre of Ghent.
B – Charlatan
Address: Vlasmarkt 6, 9000 Gent
Entrance: Free
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Description:
- The women in this bar are like the number 10 of a ladies team: the best you can get, but difficult to catch
- The men in this bar are like a locks: too pushy and not smart
- This bar is next to another one we recommend (Bar Des Amis), and in the middle of the more alternative
party hub in Ghent. On the edge of the historical centre of Ghent.
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8 Transport
8.1 How to get to Gent by plane?
There are many options, depending where you’re leaving from:
- The primary airport in Belgium is Brussels National Airport: around 30 minutes drive from Gent:
http://www.brusselsairport.be/en/passngr/schedules/
- The second airport in Belgium, with a lot of low-cost carriers and lower taxes is Brussels-South Charleroi:
around 1h drive from Gent: http://www.charleroi-airport.com/en/passengers/flights/index.html
- Lille (in France!): 1h drive from Gent: http://lille.aeroport.fr/gb/
- Eindhoven (in the Netherlands!): 1h30 drive to Gent:
http://www.eindhovenairport.com/en/flights/#destinations
- There are some other options, with limited destinations/flights, but you never know you happen to live close
to a place that’s connected to this airport:
o Oostende: 1h drive from Gent: http://www.ost.aero/en/node/383
o Antwerp: 1h drive from Gent: http://www.antwerpairport.be/contentpage_nl.php?p=bestemmingen
Easiest option to get from these airports to Gent, is by renting a bus via our local bus-partner: See section 8.4 How to
order a low-cost bus in Belgium?
8.2 How to get to Gent by boat/ferry?
There are different options to get by boat to Belgium
- The most popular one is via the Belgian seaport Oostende
- But there are also popular possibilities via seaports in the North of France like Calais and Dunkerquen which
light be lower in price sometimes
Easiest option to get from these seaports to Gent, is by renting a bus via our local bus-partner: See section 8.4 How
to order a low-cost bus in Belgium?
8.3 How to get to Gent by train?
If you would need your own transport from the Airport to Gent, we recommend you to take a train to Gent-SintPieters Railway station first, and then a cab. This will cost you around 30 euro in total, taking a cab directly from the
airport to Gent will more than 100 euro’s. A cheaper solution when the whole team has to take this trip, is by using
our bus services.
Some ideas on cost for trains:
- Brussels – Gent: 8,7 euro for an adult
- Go Pass 1: younger than 26? An electronic tickets costs you 6 euro for any distance in Belgium:
http://www.belgianrail.be/en/travel-tickets/tickets/go-pass-1.aspx
o For 10 people you have the Go Pass 10: 10 tickets for any distance, for 5 euro each (so 50 euro in
total): http://www.belgianrail.be/en/travel-tickets/passes-cards/go-pass-10.aspx
- Rail Pass: Older than 25? 10 tickets for any distance, for 7,6 euro each (so 76 euro in total):
http://www.belgianrail.be/en/travel-tickets/passes-cards/rail-pass.aspx
Both Go Pass 10 and Rail Pass can be used by several people at the same time, so with 1 Go Pas 10, you have ten
people being able to make the journey together.
If by any chance you are coming by train (train station Gent-Sint-Pieters), the best way to get to the pitch or your
hotel from the railway station will be by using a taxi. This will cost you around € 15 for a taxi of 8 people (depending
on the mileage).
8.4 How to order a low-cost bus in Belgium?
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If you want your own buses at your specific moments we can order these for you if we know this a couple of weeks
in advance.
Thanks to the fact we know all the low-cost bus companies and we group all request from all teams and sell them as
one package to the bus companies, we get a much cheaper quote than you would normally have for a bus-trip. Also,
if you’re open to share your bus with a team that has to make the same trip at around the same time, the cost
decreases even more!
Please send us your detailed schema ([email protected]) if you would like to take this option, and we’ll ask some
quotes for you.
8.5 Bus Transport Schedule
If you ordered our bus services, you will find you bus schedule on your subscription form.
8.6 Public Transport Buses and Trams
There are no trams heading towards the
tournament, but there are some public
transport buses. You can find the map with
the different lines here:
http://gent.delijn.be/files/attachments/.2314/lijnen_in_kaart_najaar_2014.pdf
To help you to orient the tournament location on the map: The tournament is played in one of the big green pats of
the city: The Sports domain De Blaarmeersen. You can see it at the little map on the right (the red circle).
Buses number 38, 39, 41 and 43 stop in the domain. They all pass by the railway station and there is one of them
every 15 minutes. Besides bus number 6 stops by very close (500 meters).
A ticket will cost you 1,5 to 2 euro.
There is a nice timetable and route planner on https://www.delijn.be/en/routeplanner/
8.7 Taxi’s
Any other transport has to be arranged by you. We have a deal with the biggest taxi-company in the city (V-Tax), and
they use minimum wages for taxi. You can call them anytime on the number +32 9 222 22 22. They have cabs for 4
and for 8 persons. Any trip in the centre of the city (or between the tournament, hotel, city centre, ...) will cost
around € 15 for an 8-person-taxi depending on the exact mileage. You can order them in advance, or just call them
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on the spot. If you want to be sure of having a taxi on the moment you want it, better call 1 hour in advance,
otherwise it might take you 15 minutes before the taxi arrives.
8.8 Where is the parking for coaches/buses?
Please see the parking at question 2.2 What does the Domain Plan look like?
The parking is indicated in yellow on the left down corner of the plan and is big enough for all coaches/buses for all
teams.
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9 Sleeping Accommodation: Hotels and Camping
9.1 Does every team have to stay in Ghent!? Either at the tournament Camping or a
Hotel?
*** PLEASE NOTE THAT WE CAN GLADLY OFFER YOU SUPER REDUCTIONS IF YOU STAY IN GHENT ***
In the past we've seen many problems with teams not staying in Gent: late because of traffic jams (a lot of people
leave on holidays during the Easter vacation and the Easter weekend is always the start of it), not showing up on
Sunday because of hangovers, … Especially teams staying in Brussels or Antwerp often had to be for hours in traffic
jams (these 2 cities are number 1 and 2 in the European the traffic jams list...). This ruins the tournament and
experience for the other teams, and we prefer to avoid this. A team might think it’s ok if they lose a game by forfeit
because they were too late, but the other team might be less happy they see a game cancelled during their tour, and
others might complain that this makes the competition unfair as not every team had to play the same amount of
minutes. To be honest, we also need you to stay in Ghent as teams staying abroad don’t participate at our parties
and thus don’t help us to keep our tournament break-even.
Besides: The city of Ghent is our biggest sponsor. Without them we cannot survive as a club and a tournament, so at
all cost we need to keep them as a friend. It is probably very clear to you that in return of their funding they expect
you to stay in Ghent and enjoy our great city (and preferably spend all your money in our city and come back ;-) ).
For these two reasons we urge you to stay in Ghent. Please use our cheap lodging at the camping, one of our many
cheap partner-hotels in the city of Ghent, or send us your accommodation needs and we will send out an enquiry to
all hotels in Gent.
In case you DO stay in Ghent you get a funding of 400 euros, which will be deducted from your subscription costs!
9.2 Which Partner Hotels give me the best value and the lowest rates?
We made special deals with several hotels. When you mention (!) that you’re participating in the tournament, you
might get a special discount.
Also, we have a list of all (almost 100!) hotels, (youth) hostels and bed & breakfasts in Gent and surroundings, which
we can send an email and forward you the best quotes. Just drop us an email at [email protected] with your
requirements:
- Name of the team:
- Category (men, women, boys U19 or U16, girls U18):
- Date and time of arrival:
- Date and time of departure:
- How many people:
- Budget per person per night:
- Any special needs:
9.3 Is the camping really only 200m from the tournament?
Yes it is! :-) You can see it here on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/nnCXitQHLYq
9.4 What are the different camping packages
When you choose for a camping package, there are different options:
- Option 1: You bring your own tent: the easiest and most flexible: costs you 15 euro/night/person, including
breakfast (on Saturday and Sunday morning + limited on Monday morning)
- Option 2: Beat the chilly nights in our big heated tent with wooden floor (1000m²)
o Same as option 1 + you don’t need to bring your own tent
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Prices can also be found at the subscription form.
9.5 Is there breakfast included when we take a Camping Package?
Yes it is, on Saturday , Sunday & Monday morning.
9.6 Why am I not allowed to make noise at the camping?
There are multiple reasons:
- First and most important: The camping is a sleeping area for our players, so we expect anybody entering the
camping to respect that. We have a party area in case you want to talk, party or have drinks. But on the
camping we expect 100% respect of the people who want to sleep. This is not the area neither to play tricks
on people
- We rent this area from the biggest sports organisation in Belgium. Not only they are very important to us
and we want to keep up the best image we can, in the building next to the camping there is the sports hotel
of the young athletes and future Olympic medal winners. They need their rest (just as you do ;-) ).
9.7 How does the Camping look like?
You can see it here on the map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zR8J38IWfaVQ.k0nKyMdlIWAI
9.8 Is it true that all bags will be controlled when entering the camping?
Our bylaw is very strictly in the field of food hygiene and food waste. For this reason it is only permitted to use the
specific food locations. Neither radios are allowed. Only in this way we can assure you a clean stay and a quiet night.
9.9 Is there sanitary at the camping?
Yes there are toilets, but limited. Better use the toilets at the tournament if possible. There are also changing rooms
and showers at the tournament.
9.10 Do we have to gather all our garbage at the camping and dump it into the
container?
Yes indeed! We will provide you with garbage bags, and expect you to put all your garbage in these and dump the
bags at the container at the entrance of the camping.
9.11 Do we just turn up at the camping or do we need a booking number or anything?
This will depend on the moment you arrive at the tournament. On the busy moments there will be somebody
dedicated at the camping. You just turn up, and ask for the rugby guys which will point you towards your tent ;-)
If nobody is at the camping at that moment, you can go to the club house. You can also call one of the liaison
officers.
A wristband is provided for each player staying at the camping.
9.12 What do we need to bring ourselves when taking a Camping Package?
We provide you with the tents set up. You only need to bring:
- A sleeping bag or alike
- An air mattress or alike
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9.13 Is there electricity at the camping?
No there isn’t.
See 4.22 How can I get Electricity at the tournament? for electricity
9.14 Can I make fire on the camping or the domain?
No, it is not allowed to make a fire (even closed) at the camping or the tournament domain.
9.15 Can I purchase an air mattress at the tournament?
No you can’t, but we might order some for you. Please email us at [email protected]
9.16 Is there Laundry Service?
Please check this with your hotel. There is no laundry service at the tournament.
9.17 Are there Conference/Meeting Rooms?
Please check this with your hotel. There are no conference rooms at the tournament.
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10 Tourism & Site-seeing
10.1 Is Gent really such a world famous city?
Although Ghent is not the best know city in Belgium (Brussels, Antwerp and Bruges are often better known), our city
outranks these easily when it comes to being the most interesting, living, historical and fun city:
Lonely Planet ranks the city of Ghent on position number 7 out of all cities in the world:
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/new-york-city/travel-tips-and-articles/76165
- National Geographic thinks only 2 cities are more interesting than ours in the world, and puts us on position 3:
http://traveler.nationalgeographic.com/2008/11/historic-destinations-rated/list-text
- while CNN calls us the best of both worlds compared to Antwerp and Bruges:
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/10/13/travel.ghent.belgium/index.html
To be honest, we don’t have a clue why anybody would ever want to stay in another city than ours when coming to
Belgium... And if anybody wants to visit any of these other cities, we’re at a 1-hour drive from each of them (if there
are no traffic jams...): http://wikitravel.org/upload/shared/5/50/Begium.png
10.2 How can I get a map of Gent?
We will provide every team and staff member with a touristic map of the city. You can also take a look at the official
tourism-website of the city: http://www.visitgent.be
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11 Miscellaneous
11.1 Do non-European players or staff need a visa to enter Belgium?
Yes they do.
11.2 What if we want to come back to Ghent?
You’re more than welcome! We give special deals to past winners of the tournament  More info:
http://www.gent-rugby.be/easterrugby and http://www.facebook.com/EasterRugby
11.3 What is the Weather forecast?
http://www.meteo.be/meteo/view/en/65656-Weather.html
11.4 In what Time Zone is Gent?
Belgium is in the time zone CET (Central European Time)
11.5 Where can I find a Catholic Church nearby?
SINT-MARTINUS EKKERGEM Church
Ekkergemstraat 203
9000 Gent
There is a ceremony at 10h30 on Sunday
11.6 Where can I find an ATM close to the tournament?
There will be an ATM at the tournament at the rugby village! See 2.2 What does the Domain Plan look like?
11.7 To whom can I ask additional questions?
Just drop Nathalie an email at [email protected]
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