UAE Rugby recently hosted the annual Asia Rugby Conference, for 2017, which focused on key topics of Leading Rugby and Growing the Game within the Asian Unions.

“UAE Rugby was extremely honoured to be the host for the 2017 Asia Rugby Conference, and we were exceptionally pleased to have the full, and unwavering support of World Rugby” commented Secretary General UAE Rugby and Honorary Secretary General Asia Rugby, Qais Al Dhalai. “Asia Rugby is at an exciting stage in its growth and development, and the opportunities that presented themselves to our Unions, through the 4-day conference, provide for very exciting years to come, in and for our sport.”

Asia Rugby is at an exciting stage in its growth and development

For the first 2-days, 17 delegates from 10 countries participated in the Conference’s ‘Leading Rugby’ focus, discussing and analysing aspects of governance, administration, capitalising on commercial opportunities and effective communication tools. The conference then moved into the 2-day Growing the Game focus, where a historic 44 representatives from 24 countries were actively involved in workshops and presentations including; growing girls and women’s participation, safeguarding and player welfare, and World Rugby’s ‘IMPACT Beyond RWC 2019’.

“Asia Rugby has embarked on an ambitious plan to increase its rugby population by an additional 1 million new participants, through the Asia 1 Million project.” said Al Dhalai.

“On behalf of UAE Rugby, and Asia Rugby, I extend our sincere gratitude to all Unions who attended, and to the presenters for sharing their expertise and knowledge on best practices that each Union can adapt and incorporate into their everyday management. I am delighted that all delegates were energized from this conference, and we look forward to working with each Union in our bid to make Rugby in Asia the leading sport.” Al Dhalai said in closing.