Regional Development Managers from across the global rugby family gathered in Dublin, Ireland, for the World Rugby Regional Development Manager Workshop, alongside members of the World Rugby Participation Team and Regional Partnership Managers (RPMs).
Representing Asia, Mahfizul Islam, Asia Rugby’s Regional Development Manager, participated in the workshop, contributing to discussions focused on rugby growth, participation, and strengthening development pathways across the regions.
The workshop highlighted the ongoing commitment of World Rugby and the Regional Associations to sharing best practices, fostering innovation, and advancing the development of rugby at all levels around the world.
The discussions also reinforced the importance of regional collaboration and knowledge sharing ahead of the World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in Conjunction with Asia Rugby, which will be held in Fukuoka, Japan, on 28–29 September 2026. Hosted at the Japan Base facility, the conference will bring together representatives from Asia Rugby Member Unions, World Rugby, and regional development teams to align development priorities, exchange best practices, and strengthen cooperation in support of the sustainable growth of rugby across Asia.
Asia Rugby President, Qais Al Dhalai, said:
“Development remains at the heart of Asia Rugby’s vision. Workshops such as this provide an important platform for collaboration, learning, and the exchange of ideas that help strengthen our game across the region. Through initiatives such as our Try Together Programme supported by Emirates, Asia Rugby continues to support Member Unions by providing development opportunities, resources, and pathways that help grow participation and build sustainable rugby communities. We are proud to have Asia represented and contributing to the global rugby development agenda.”
Chairman of the Asia Rugby Development Committee, Mohamed Jarkou, added:
“The growth of rugby depends on strong cooperation between World Rugby, Regional Associations, and Member Unions. Sharing experiences and best practices allows us to identify new opportunities and deliver sustainable development programmes that benefit players, coaches, match officials, and communities throughout Asia. The upcoming World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in conjunction with Asia Rugby, will provide another valuable opportunity for our unions to collaborate, share expertise, and continue building a strong and sustainable future for rugby across the region.”
Asia Rugby remains committed to supporting its Member Unions through innovative development programmes, education initiatives, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the foundations of the game and create opportunities for rugby to thrive across the continent.
