The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Harlequins Junior Rugby Tournament was another roaring success this year, according to organiser Derren Sanders.
The numbers for what has been described as one of the biggest youth rugby tournaments in the world are staggering; 260 teams entered the tournament last Friday and Saturday, a total of 601 matches on Zayed Sports City’s nine pitches across 11 different age groups.
“We had a fitting U-16 final to end the tournament on Saturday, which was tough, competitive and skilful,” said Sanders.
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“A special mention to Harlequins U-14s, who won their cup, only conceding one try all weekend.
“The U-6s were playing their first ever rugby, which was special. There were no league tables, just awards for endeavour and achievement, a universally popular initiative that we will now continue.
“We had great support from sponsors Etihad and HSBC, including their skills zones which allow the children some quiet time to practice. Also hugely influential were National Ambulance and the referees – real unsung heroes who were on site for 10 hours a day.”
Sanders insisted that the tournament is not just about the rugby.
“It was pleasing that there were fewer complaints about referees, as well as player and particularly parental behaviour. It is a key feature of our tournament.
Great Tournament @Abudhabiquins @DubaiExiles #ADfrench #Alain @HSBC_Sport #Globalsport #Touch #everbodyplay pic.twitter.com/fbSwd40zzz
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“Rugby has a unique culture and values, instilling these into our youth at an early stage gives them life skills as well as enjoyment.”
There was joy for Dubai teams as they dominated the girl’s section, Exiles winning both the U-19s and U15s Cup competitions, while Hurricanes stormed to the Cup title in the U12s section.
Al Ain Amblers 2nds were the kings of the senior U-19 boys Cup while it was a day to cherish for the Arabian Knights organisation as they swept the majority of honours in the major Cup competitions in each age sector, helping themselves to wins in no fewer than five of the different age groups.
The Knights cleaned up in the U-7s, U-8s, U-9s and U-10s Cup, while their U-16 boys also took top honours too, their second side also winning the second tier U-16s Plate as well to cap a truly fine day.
The home team Quins, as mentioned, conceded just one try as they dominated the U14s boys section, while Dubai ruled the roost in the rest of the competitions.
Hurricanes claimed victory in the U-15s, Dubai Warriors won the main title in the U-13s, Exiles took home the title of U-12 champions and Hurricanes were triumphant in the U-11s competition.
