Dubai: Logistics firm DHL has teamed up with Dubai Hurricanes rugby club to develop Emirati talent in the UAE.
The partnership sees DHL sponsor the club’s new academy, which is designed to develop the skills of youngsters and includes scholarships for Emiratis in the under-16 and under-18 age groups.
The academy kicks off at the Sevens Stadium on October 3 with the support of former New Zealand flanker Josh Kronfeld and aims to encourage young Emiratis to join local clubs with greater confidence and understanding of the game.
As part of the programme, Emirati players will train alongside regular club members from any UAE rugby club signed up with the academy.
DHL Express country manager Frank-Uwe Ungerer said: “We are delighted to be a part of the scholarship programme and believe it is an excellent initiative to encourage a sporting culture in Dubai. “At DHL, we are strong supporters of rugby on a global level including sponsorship of the Rugby World Cup 2015 as well as a local level, our partnership with the Dubai Hurricanes reflects our dedication to supporting local talent development — be it in the workplace or out on a sports field.”
Hurricanes chairman Simon Lewis added: “The aim is to provide a sustained programme of attainment via the International Rugby Board pathway programme for Emirati players. This would be recognised by rugby clubs within the UAE and overseas, should the individual have the opportunity to play rugby aboard.”
The UAE Rugby Federation (UAERF) had recently proposed to subsidise Emirati club membership fees as an incentive for Emiratis to get into the game. The UAERF offered to pay 80 per cent of a players’ fee if the club covered the remaining 20 per cent. The suggestion was largely rejected by clubs who viewed it as unsustainable, but the Hurricanes’ new DHL-backed academy could be a better way of integrating and retaining Emiratis at a younger age.
