Monaco: The Shaheen Rugby team, representing the UAE Rugby Federation, is actively participating in the Monaco International Rugby Sevens Championship, currently taking place in the vibrant city of Monaco. This event serves as a pivotal preparation phase for the team as they gear up for forthcoming continental tournaments.
According to Emirates News Agency, the competition, which commenced on Friday, features seven teams from leading European clubs alongside Shaheen. The tournament provides an invaluable platform for Shaheen to hone their skills against formidable opponents. In anticipation of the event, the team embarked on a brief training camp in France to enhance their technical and physical capabilities while acclimatizing to the competitive atmosphere.
The Shaheen squad is composed entirely of Emirati players, aligning with the UAE Rugby Federation's goal to foster national talent and grant players international exposure and experience. This participation is a part of the broader UAE national team preparation programme targeting key events such as the Asia Rugby Championships in China, the Asian Games in Japan, and the Asia Championship in Sri Lanka.
Mohamed Sultan Al Zaabi, Secretary-General of the UAE Rugby Federation, emphasized the significance of Shaheen's involvement in the Monaco tournament. He highlighted that this participation is crucial for the federation's strategy to prepare Emirati players by exposing them to international competition and diverse playing styles. Al Zaabi noted that such tournaments play a vital role in enhancing both the technical and physical performance of players, ensuring they are well-prepared for upcoming official competitions.