On behalf of the Board of Directors and Members of Nomad Sports Club we would like to welcome all the participants and guests to the 2008 Manila 10's International Rugby Festival.

Since 1914 Nomad Sports Club has been the most prestigious international sports club in the Philippines and throughout the years we have had the pleasure to host one of the largest amateur rugby tournaments in the world.Last year I had the pleasure of playing in the event, representing a scratch team called the X-Men which brought a new personal dimension to the weekend.

This year I have decided to hang up my rugby boots and, as President of Nomads, play host to our guests that travel from every corner of the globe for this wonderful event.

I would like to thank the Manila 10's organizing committee led by William "Grumpy" Bailey and his team of volunteers without which this event would not happen.

The staff at Nomads led by Bert Gopez has worked tirelessly for the past few weeks to make this event one of the best on the world rugby social calendar.

Staging a tournament on this scale is clearly a significant financial undertaking for the Club and, without the support of our sponsors, and in particular, AMEC/Cape East, such an event would not be possible; so a large thank you to all the of the sponsors.

Finally I am sure I will meet many of you over the weekend and it would be my pleasure to buy you a beer and thank you all for supporting both Nomad Sports Club and the Manila 10's Rugby festival.

MABUHAY
Johnathon Thorp