Asia Rugby President Visits Timor-Leste to Foster Rugby Development
In a historic visit aimed at promoting the growth and development of rugby in Timor-Leste, Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai met with the President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, His Excellency Mr José Ramos-Horta. The discussions focused on supporting rugby initiatives in the country, emphasizing the importance of inclusive sports for all.
During the visit, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Asia Rugby (AR) and Asia Wheelchair Rugby (AWR). The MOU was signed by Qais Al Dhalai and Rodney Holt, President of Asia Wheelchair Rugby, in the presence of President José Ramos-Horta. The agreement underscores a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities through the introduction and promotion of wheelchair rugby in Asia Rugby member countries.
Related news.
Asia Rugby voted in Qais Al Dhalai as World Rugby Council Member at an Extraordinary General Meeting
Saudi Education Ministry Integrates Rugby into Physical Education Curriculum
Mohamad Jarkou Appointed New Asia Rugby Development Committee Chairperson
The MOU outlines the shared values and guiding principles of both organizations, highlighting their dedication to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering sports environment. The key aspects of the agreement include:
Encouraging Participation: Creating opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities to participate in training and competitions, showcasing their skills in wheelchair rugby.
Coaching Quality: Providing educational pathways for volunteer coaches and technical officials to enhance their knowledge and skills.
Public Awareness: Collaborating to increase awareness of sports for athletes with physical disabilities, challenging misconceptions, and reducing stigma.
Asia Rugby has committed to endorsing and supporting AWR in coordinating and exploring opportunities to develop the game and the identification and recruitment of athletes, facilitating the development of wheelchair rugby across its member countries. AWR will provide free access to sports facilities and volunteer coaches, and work towards year-round training and competition opportunities.
“This partnership with Asia Wheelchair Rugby represents a vital step towards inclusivity in sports in Asia. By working together, we aim to create opportunities that empower athletes with physical disabilities, demonstrating the unifying power of rugby for all,” said Qais Al Dhalai, President of Asia Rugby.
Qais Al Dhalai further added, “I am grateful to His Excellency, President José Ramos-Horta, for his warm welcome and steadfast support for the future development of rugby in Timor-Leste. His commitment to fostering inclusivity and growth in sports is truly inspiring, and we look forward to a fruitful partnership that will benefit athletes across the nation.”
The delegation accompanying Qais Al Dhalai included Asia Rugby CEO Benjamin van Rooyen, who expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and its potential impact. “This collaboration represents a significant step forward in promoting inclusivity and empowerment through sport,” said van Rooyen.
Rodney Holt, President of Asia Wheelchair Rugby, also shared his thoughts on the collaboration: “This agreement marks a significant milestone in our mission to bring the benefits of wheelchair rugby to a broader audience. By working together with Asia Rugby, we aim to break down barriers and provide meaningful opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities. It’s an exciting time for the growth of inclusive sports in Asia.”
The MOU signing marks the beginning of a three-year commitment, with both organizations pledging to collaborate on joint activities and events annually. Regular consultations will ensure the partnership’s success and alignment with their shared objectives.
