Sunday 17th October saw the launch of the inaugural Emirates Dubai 7s Elite Performance Program at The Sevens Stadium, in which International Sevens players coached 50+ players.
Well-known superstars from the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series Tom Mitchell, Dan Norton, Heather Fisher and JB Gobelet were all present in delivering specialist masterclasses on a top-up day before coaching the principles, tactics and variations of the 7s games throughout the three-day performance camp.
In line with The Emirates Dubai 7s, the program increases participation and excellence in the game of rugby 7s for both male and female players. By combining world-class coaching and facilities, the players enjoyed a unique environment where they engaged in curriculum both on and off the field.
This included sprinting and biomechanical workshops delivered by Speedworks, Bath, mental health classes, video analysis and the principles of recovery, complemented using ice baths.
Following a very successful performance camp, an equally successful girls and women’s development day was run, working on the skills and gameplay of 7s. Having won the U18s West Asia 7s tournament, the whole squad was also invited to partake in the camp to celebrate their successes.
Team GB 7s captain Tom Mitchell said of the camp, “At the end of a rewarding week. I have learnt loads and had lots of fun. Big thanks to all the young players, future stars of the 7s game.”
Senior EPP squad attendee TJ Battison said of the camp, “From the boys and me, we really enjoyed it and learnt so much, and it was an experience learning from some of the top coaches of the 7s game. The banter and laughs throughout the camp really made it such a good environment, and it went quick.”
The next EPP will be the February half term, and we look forward to welcoming back previous and new players. Would you please send an email if of interest to Jordanross.ainslie@emirates.com to be added to the mailing list for future information