Healey leads trio of rugby coaches at Dubai Academy

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  • Learn from the experts: Former British and Irish Lions and England star Austin Healey during a coaching session.

    There are few opportuni­ties to spend a week honing your skills under the expert eye of three former rugby union internationals. But, one of those occasions begins on Monday when Superskills’ first-ever Dubai Rugby Academy opens up at The Jebel Ali Centre of Excellence.

    Former British and Irish Lions and England rugby legend Austin Healey, dual-code international Apollo Perelini and ex-Scotland in­ternational Rory Lawson will all be at hand for daily two-hour sessions from Monday to Friday, October 31 at 09:30 for children aged five to 16. Places are still available for the activities, which are priced at Dh500 for the day or Dh2,000 for the week.

    The training activities will help budding rugby stars improve their technique and learn fresh tips to develop their game.

    The experience is heightened by the potential opportunity to gain one-on-one tutoring from the famous former players.

    Superskills have successfully run similar holidays at a resort in Sar­dinia, and are now looking to bring their expertise to the UAE.

    “This is an incredible chance for kids to be coached by absolute legends of the game,” Superskills travel and events executive Peter Crocombe said. “Each one of them has a vast knowledge of the sport that they can pass on.

    “We have appriximately 20 children booked per day at the moment, with this number sure to rise in the coming days. Sport360 UAE Premiership mini and youth teams are also looking to join in. Jebel Ali Dragons will be taking part on Friday, which should be a really fun day seeing everyone combining together.”

    Set at the Jebel Ali Resort in Dubai, families can enjoy play­ing on the pitch or relaxing by the pool as part of the many activities available.

    There will be an action-packed programme of events throughout the week, including awards and the hugely popular ‘Parents and Legends’ touch rugby match.

    Water will also be provided to make sure all the children involved will be in the best condition.

    The Apollo Perelini Rugby Skills Academy has been running in Nad Al Sheba and the ex-St Helens and Sale Sharks warrior is looking forward to helping out at another exciting camp in the UAE.

    He said: “This will be a great way for kids to continue their rugby education. I couldn’t wait to get involved when I was told about it, working alongside Austin and Rory will be great.” 

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