Budding Rugby Stars Get to Learn From Their Heroes

YOUNG rugby players had the chance to learn from the best as the Fiji National Sevens side joined them for a training session at Zayed Sports City.

Pupils from Brighton College Abu Dhabi, British School Al Khubairat and young players from the Abu Dhabi Harlequins got to meet their sporting heroes and collect some autographs before taking to the pitch.

The Fiji Sevens team has chosen Zayed Sports City as its training ground ahead of the Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens, which kicks off this weekend.

Ben Ryan, who was recently appointed head coach of the Fiji Sevens team, said: “This is a great opportunity for the players to get into the community and pass on some of their experience to young players who look up to them. They don't get many opportunities to do things like this in Fiji, so it's really nice for them and they really get something out of it.

“It's great for the kids. They get to meet these players that they've watched on TV, and they love that.”

Ryan said his team is feeling confident ahead of the Dubai Rugby sevens.

“We've got great training facilities here at Zayed Sports City, so that's really beneficial and we're feeling good and relaxed. We've been working hard so we believe we've got a good chance.”

Ropate Kauvesi, the team's manager, said he has already seen improvements in his players since Ben Ryan's appointment as head coach.

“Ben has really improved the work ethic at the club, and brought a stronger sense of discipline to the way we train. It is more organised now.”

One of the youngsters, a pupil at Brighton College, said: “I've really enjoyed training with the Fiji players. They taught me to stay calm when I have the ball and not panic! I've watched them many times on TV so it's amazing to meet them.”