Joe Marsh, who attended Red House School in Norton, now travels the world with the Monaco Impis Rugby Club.
The sevens team plays in international tournaments in destinations including Dubai.
Mr Marsh recently returned to his former school for the first time since 1999, when he collected his GCSE results, to take part in a training session and inspire current pupils.
Mr Marsh said: “The last time that I stepped foot in Red House School was in 1999, when I picked up my GCSEs – but walking through the doors again was just spine-tingling.”
The visit coincided with the Impis’ defence of their title at the Eggchaser’s 7s North tournament, held at the Darlington Arena on June 14.
Both the men’s and women’s teams from Monaco secured victories at the event.
Ahead of the tournament, Red House School hosted a training session for the team.
Mr Marsh, 41, said: “We realised that we would have a day of training prior, and we were offered spots across the region.
“But then we came up with the idea of visiting a school, and my nostalgic side drew me back towards Red House.
“Their response was instantly phenomenal and the school couldn’t have been more accommodating.”
More than 120 pupils took part in the session, which covered all aspects of the game, from lineouts and scrums to touch rugby.
Mr Marsh said: “The pupils were just superb – when we arrived for the training session, the school had already sorted out everything – and it gave us a chance to work on everything from lineouts and scrums to touch rugby with over 120 pupils.
“Everyone just threw themselves into the event and the youngsters were so impressive.”
Mr Marsh’s rugby journey began at Red House, inspired by teacher Danny Kitching.
Although he drifted away from the sport in his 20s, he reconnected with rugby after moving to Monaco via Australia.
He became involved with the Impis through a bar in Monaco called Slammers, where he said: “you can order a pint of Guinness and find yourself standing next to Prince Albert.”
The team operates under the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which promotes sports participation and provides educational and sports equipment.
Red House School, an independent school for pupils aged three to 16, fields rugby teams at county and national level and regularly competes in the Rosslyn Park National Schools 7s.
Headteacher Dr Rebecca Ashcroft said: “A crucial aim at Red House School is to provide pupils with experiences that go beyond the classroom.
“Opportunities like this enrich learning, improve academic outcomes, and shape confident, well-rounded individuals.
“Sport, in particular, teaches resilience, teamwork and leadership—skills that support both educational success and personal growth for life.
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“We were delighted to welcome Joe back to Red House and proud to host the Monaco Impis teams.
“It was an incredible opportunity for our pupils to be coached by elite players.
“We are very grateful to Joe and the teams for giving their time and inspiring our pupils.”`
