For three days in early January, the Stade Toulousain Rugby Camp brought a fresh spark to the UAE rugby scene.

Hosted at Arcadia British School, the camp was a transformative experience for players, coaches, and the wider rugby community.

From the outset, the sessions were built around the core principles of teamwork, support play, ball carrier development, and improving players’ ability to read the game. Delivered by the world-renowned Stade Toulousain coaches, the camp provided a masterclass in the modern game’s philosophy.

High-Intensity Training

The energy on the pitch was palpable. Every session was fast-paced, challenging, and designed to stretch players’ limits. Drills focused on sharpening instincts, improving decision-making, and gaining a deep understanding of rugby’s nuances. Whether it was emphasising the importance of support play or empowering players to make decisive moves as ball carriers, the sessions pushed participants to think faster and play smarter.

Growth on and off the Pitch

The 42 young players who attended showcased incredible growth over the three days. They embraced the famed “Jeu de main, Jeu de Toulousain” (roughly translated, “game of the hands”, or running rugby) philosophy, learning to play a more dynamic and fluid style of rugby. The evolution was clear not just in their skills but in their confidence and enthusiasm for the game.

What made the camp truly special was its diversity. Players from all major UAE rugby clubs and schools came together, setting aside rivalries to bond over their shared love for the sport. It was a reminder of how rugby unites, no matter the team you represent.

A Learning Opportunity for Coaches

The camp wasn’t just for players. UAE-based coaches had a rare chance to observe and learn from some of the best in the business. The Stade Toulousain staff offered insights on how to keep players engaged, creative, and evolving. With a focus on reading the game and fostering innovation, the lessons learned promise to have a lasting impact on the way rugby is coached across the UAE.

A Summer Invitation

The camp’s impact extended beyond the three days. One standout player was awarded a special invitation to train at the Stade Toulousain Académie in Toulouse this summer—a testament to the level of talent and effort on display.