the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation has once again placed safety and education at the heart of the event, organising a dedicated Water Safety Day at the Stade Louis II swimming pool.
In the presence of Princess Charlene, 108 children from across the globe gathered for a morning focused on drowning prevention and aquatic awareness. Participants travelled from countries including South Africa, Argentina, Ecuador, India, Mauritius, the United States, Japan, Singapore and Zimbabwe, representing the international teams taking part in the tournament.
Led by foundation ambassador Pierre Frolla and instructors from the Académie Monégasque de la Mer, the session combined education with hands-on activities designed to teach essential lifesaving skills in a fun and engaging environment.
Children rotated through a series of practical workshops, learning techniques such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, basic rescue methods using flotation devices, and water-based exercises including water polo and obstacle courses. Activities were adapted for all levels, ensuring that even non-swimmers could participate safely while gaining confidence in the water.
In addition to the pool sessions, several “dry” workshops were organised with the support of the Monaco Red Cross, the Monaco Anti-Doping Committee and the Monaco Association of Olympic Athletes. These sessions addressed broader topics such as first aid awareness, ethics in sport and the values of Olympic competition.
For many of the young participants, the experience marked their first introduction to water rescue techniques, delivered in a structured and supportive setting. The initiative reflects the foundation’s ongoing international mission to reduce drowning risks while promoting education, solidarity and the positive values of sport.
By combining prevention with participation, the Water Safety Day serves as a meaningful prelude to the Sainte Dévote Tournament—equipping young athletes not only for competition on the rugby field, but with essential skills that extend far beyond it.
Image courtesy of Michaël Alesi / Palais princier