Benjamin van Rooyen Appointed Asia Rugby Interim CEO

Asia Rugby is delighted to announce the appointment of Benjamin van Rooyen as an interim Chief Executive Officer of Asia Rugby.

Benjamin has been with Asia Rugby since May 2016 and will continue to also look after the development portfolio since he has played a key role in the growth and development of rugby across Asia.

Leading up to the first Rugby World Cup in Asia, Japan 2019, Benjamin headed the ‘Asia 1 Million‘ project that proved to be a game-changer for the sport across the world’s most populous continent. Consequently, it emerged that 2.25 million new rugby participants had taken up the sport in Asia, over 40% of which were women.

Besides the development portfolio, Ben has also been involved in and provided support to many Asia Rugby committees, including the Gender Equity, Ethics and Governance, Advisory and Athletes committees.

“I am delighted at the appointment of Benjamin van Rooyen as the interim CEO,” stated Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai on the occasion, “his long service to rugby in Asia is known by all, and his appointment will ensure proper business stability and sustainable refining processes during the transitional phase of Asia Rugby as we go through an ongoing reforms processes initiated by the Executive Committee”

“I would like to thank my Vice President Mr Vela Tan, who is leading an independent Reform Commission to help ensure that Asia Rugby’s principles of equality, transparency and accountability are adhered to in all aspects of the continental body and have a positive meaningful impact throughout the current office term until after Paris 2024″

On his appointment, Benjamin van Rooyen commented: “I am delighted and humbled to be asked to take over as Acting CEO. I believe in the potential of rugby in Asia. I have seen growth and development and I have seen rugby being played in places that have never seen any organized sport. Asia Rugby is at a critical stage, and I look forward to doing my part.”

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