François Moncla

Biography

Early life François Moncla was born on 1 April 1932, in Louvie-Juzon, in the Ossau Valley, as the youngest of three children in a family with deep roots in the region. His grandfather, François Moncla, had several children, five of whom emigrated to Argentina, though François' father, Jean-Casimir, eventually returned to France. François began playing rugby in his hometown and later at Étoile Sportive Arudyenne in Arudy. In 1948, he was selected for the Béarn junior rugby team, where he initially played as a winger.

Racing CF François Moncla moved to Paris at age 17 for training at the French National School of Electricity in Gurcy-le-Châtel. By 18, he earned a professional certificate and completed military service, becoming the French Air Force rugby champion in 1954 and inter-service champion in 1955. As a technical instructor, he coached the school's rugby team and played senior-level rugby for Racing Club de France. He identified and mentored notable players, including Michel Crauste, while solidifying his position as a powerful flanker in 1952. Argentina in 1960 and New-Zealand in 1961.

Section Paloise In 1959, François Moncla returned to Béarn, joining Section Paloise, where he played and captained France. Under his leadership, France achieved two consecutive "Petit Chelem" victories in 1960 and 1961's Five Nations. His international career ended after the challenging 1961 New Zealand-Australia tour. Domestically, Moncla led Section Paloise to several successes, notably winning the 1963–64 French Rugby Union Championship. He retired in 1966, solidifying his status as a rugby legend in Pau and beyond.

François Moncla served as president of Section Paloise from 1972 to 1979. His tenure reinforced his legacy within the club, showcasing his leadership beyond his playing career.

He won the national championship twice, in 1959 with Racing Club de France and in 1964 with Section Paloise.