Launch of Empire Rugby Academy

Date: April 2025

April 2025 marked the beginning of a new era for women’s rugby in the UAE with the launch of Empire Rugby Academy, the country’s first female-only performance rugby academy.

Led by an experienced all-female coaching team, the academy opened its doors to U16 and U19 athletes for a 10-week high-performance programme. Players trained in an environment designed to mirror the professional game, combining:

• High-quality on-field coaching

• Strength & conditioning programmes

• Specialist masterclasses across all formats of rugby

• Insights and advice from international rugby stars

The programme went beyond the pitch, providing guidance on global university pathways, performance psychology, nutrition, and recovery strategies.

The first block culminated in an exciting showcase game in Week 10, giving athletes the chance to apply their new skills and celebrate their development.

Empire Rugby Academy is proud to be leading the way in inspiring, empowering, and developing the next generation of female rugby players in the UAE.