Jordan Rugby is taking a significant step in its journey of growth and development as it sends the Men’s 15s National Team, Women’s Sevens Team, and the newly-formed U20 Sevens Team to Alexandria, Egypt, for an intensive week-long training camp. This initiative, in collaboration with Egypt Rugby and Alexandria Rugby Club, marks an important milestone in preparing for the 2025 international season and underscores the union’s dedication to advancing the sport across all levels.
The camp features a packed schedule of matches and high-performance training. The Men’s 15s will play two test matches against Alexandria’s 15s team, continuing a spirited rivalry established last year, which ended in one victory for each side. The Women’s Sevens Team will participate in their first-ever international training camp, with two matches on Tuesday and a showcase series against Egypt’s top women’s rugby clubs, Alexandria, Wolves, and Panthers on Friday. The U20 Sevens Team will make its debut with three matches against Alexandria’s U20s, marking a historic milestone for youth rugby in Jordan.
Aziz Abu Khalaf, Secretary General, emphasized the significance of this initiative:
“This camp represents our commitment to player development and achieving international success. It prepares our Men’s 15s for the 2025 calendar, provides the Women’s Sevens Team with crucial experience ahead of the Arab Rugby Sevens in February 2025, and marks the historic debut of our U20 Sevens Team, a milestone made possible through World Rugby’s T1 Program. Ending the year on such a high note sets the stage for an even brighter future.”
Koki Hammouqa, Director of Rugby and Performance, highlighted the developmental focus of the camp:
“This camp is about performance and growth. The Men’s 15s will refine their tactics through high-level test matches, while the U20 Sevens Team’s debut highlights the success of our pathways, giving young players their first taste of international rugby and setting the foundation for their growth. It’s a rewarding step forward for Jordan Rugby.”
Shamel Shabsough, Head Coach of Women’s Rugby, underlined the opportunities for the Women’s Sevens Team:
“Our players are embracing this incredible opportunity to compete and grow. Facing strong Egyptian clubs and engaging in intensive training will enhance their skills, teamwork, and mindset. This experience is a critical step in assessing our progress, laying a solid foundation for future tournaments, and advancing the development of women’s rugby in Jordan.”
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
This camp reinforces the partnership between Jordan Rugby, Egypt Rugby, and Alexandria Rugby Club, fostering regional camaraderie and promoting rugby’s growth in the Middle East. Actively seeking test matches outside the international regional calendar allows Jordan Rugby to build relationships, exchange knowledge, and pursue logistically feasible opportunities for development and competition at higher levels.
Acknowledging Our Partners
Jordan Rugby extends its heartfelt thanks to Royal Jordanian, Isuzu Jordan, Giordano, and Stingz for their continued support. Their contributions have been instrumental in enabling Jordan Rugby’s international participation and elevating the sport within Jordan.