Marius Schoeman Teaches Next Generation

in Gulf Rugby tagged

Whilst no player ever likes being injured the South African 7s supremo, Marius Schoeman, is intent on making the most of his recovery period by taking some time out in Dubai to pass on his knowledge and skills to the next generation of players.
In a first for the region Marius has joined up with Libra Education Management Services and Samurai Rugby Gear to deliver a holiday camp (during the November half-term) that specifically caters for aspiring young rugby players.

On the 14th, 15th and 16th November Marius will be putting a group of excited young players through their paces at the Dubai English Speaking School (DESS).

Marius has been a South African 7s player since 2001 and has also played in the Currie Cup for the Pumas and in the Super 14 for the Bulls. He was the SA 7s player of the year in 2003 and an integral part of the South African team that won the IRB Sevens World Series Championship in 2008 / 2009. On coaching the Dubai youth Marius said:

“I’m really excited about coming to Dubai to coach the young players of the UAE and hope that I can teach them some useful skills and techniques in a fun way. It’s important to me that all kids have a good time whilst learning as they are the future of our great game”.

David Jenns, Managing Director of Libra, said “We are really proud to be able to bring a player of Marius’ quality to Dubai for this event and know the kids will have a great time and learn a huge amount from him. These kinds of opportunities are what the UAE has been built on and Libra is determined to continue in the country’s mould by offering the best possible activities with the highest quality coaches”.

The camp is open to children of all abilities from the age of 6 – 12 and Marius’ presence has ensured people are travelling from as far as Abu Dhabi to take part. The three day camp will help the kids improve their core skills of catch and pass, tackle, evasion and pursuit and if age appropriate their contact skills. Max Lohe, Assistant Director of Sport at DESS, said:

“This camp is a fantastic way for the rugby community to further prepare for the busy season ahead. Our boys will be looking to build their skills and abilities in the build up to the Dubai College 7s in a couple of week’s time. We are glad that children from around the UAE will come to DESS and enjoy a fun filled 3 days of rugby. Partnering with Libra is new venture for us too and we look forward to growing this relationship in the future”.

Ghaith Jalajel, UAE Rugby Association Rugby Development and Services Manager, agreed that initiatives like these are great for the growth of rugby in the region and said “We are always happy to see development activities like these help us grow the game within the UAE and are already working with Libra on a number of new programmes”.

If anyone would like further details on the camp they can email camps@libra-uae.com or call Bruce on 055 764 7033.