Subscribe

– Subscribe to the Yalla Sports on YouTube
– Listen on Spotify
– Listen on Apple Podcasts

Inside the Journey of UAE Rugby Fullback Conor Kennedy

In this week’s episode of the Yalla Sports Podcast, host Alex Johnson sat down with UAE rugby fullback Conor Kennedy. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in the UAE from the age of three, Kennedy has carved out an impressive career, representing the UAE National Rugby Team in both the sevens and 15s formats. His accolades include winning the Gulf Men’s League Cup at the 2021 Dubai 7s, securing the UAE Premiership title with the Exiles in 2023, and most recently, claiming victory at the Arab Rugby Sevens.

Click on the YouTube video above to watch the full interview with Conor Kennedy or click here.

Competing at the Arab Rugby Sevens

Fresh off a triumphant campaign at the Arab Rugby Sevens in Egypt, Kennedy reflected on the experience of playing against emerging rugby nations.

“It was really cool to see teams like Libya and Saudi Arabia competing. The standard of rugby was surprisingly high, with teams like Egypt and Morocco fielding some really talented players, including professionals from the French Pro D2 league.”

Morocco, last year’s champions, fell to the UAE in the final—a victory Kennedy credits to team cohesion and strong Emirati representation, led by players like Muhammad Ali and Captain Yousef. He mentioned the importance of integrating Emirati talent into the national setup, ensuring the long-term growth of rugby in the region.

Rugby Sevens vs. 15s: Which Game is Tougher?

Having played both formats at the international level, Kennedy shared his preference for sevens due to its fast pace and wide-open gameplay.

“It’s high-risk, high-reward. One tackle or turnover can decide the game. But this year, with a huge 15s schedule ahead, including a tour to Zimbabwe and the West Asia Championship, I’m equally excited about what’s coming.”

The UAE national team’s 15s campaign includes crucial fixtures against teams like Hong Kong, Korea, and Malaysia, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

A Lifetime with the Exiles

Kennedy’s rugby journey has been deeply intertwined with the Dubai Exiles. Having joined as an under-six player, he progressed through the ranks, left for university in New Zealand, and returned to play senior rugby.

“The Exiles have always been my home club. I’ve played at every age group and have seen the club grow and develop into one of the most dominant sides in UAE rugby.”

Balancing Rugby and a Full-Time Job

Like most UAE national team players, Kennedy juggles his rugby commitments with a full-time corporate career. He works in recruitment, with his daily routine involving early morning gym sessions, a full workday, and evening training sessions.

“In the build-up to the Arab Sevens, my week looked like this: sevens training on Monday, Exiles training on Tuesday, sevens on Wednesday, Exiles again on Thursday, and a match on Friday. It’s a non-stop schedule.”

Fortunately, his employer, Michael Stubbs, who also plays for the Exiles, understands the demands of high-level amateur rugby. However, Kennedy highlights the need for more support structures within UAE rugby, such as dedicated physios and improved resources, to help players maintain peak performance while balancing their careers.

The Road to the Rugby World Cup

With the UAE finishing second in the 2024 Asia Rugby Championship, belief within the squad is higher than ever. Kennedy recalled a pivotal training camp in Al Ain where players realized the magnitude of the opportunity ahead.

“Our coaches laid it out clearly—this is a real shot at World Cup qualification. It’s just two games. Win them, and we’re on our way to Australia in 2027.”

The Growth of UAE Rugby

Having grown up in the UAE rugby system, Kennedy has witnessed firsthand the sport’s rapid development.

“When I was a kid, we played on sand pitches. Now, the facilities are world-class, and talented youngsters are choosing to stay in Dubai rather than move abroad for rugby. The fact that the UAE can now seriously compete with professional teams like Korea is a testament to how far we’ve come.”

The inclusion of Bahraini and Qatari teams in the West Asia Premiership has further elevated the standard of club rugby, providing UAE players with better competition week in and week out.

What’s Next for UAE Rugby?

Looking ahead, Kennedy believes that continued investment in grassroots rugby and more structured support for national team players will be key to sustaining the sport’s momentum.

“As rugby grows, we need better resources—physios, strength and conditioning programs, and long-term planning for players. The potential is huge, but we need the right backing to take UAE rugby to the next level.”

Final Words of Advice

When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Kennedy kept it simple:

“Trust your gut, express yourself on the field, and work on the little things—passing, kicking, catching. Those small details make the biggest difference.”