71% of all global Get into Rugby numbers reported up to 29 February 2020 came from Asia Rugby unions
Asia Rugby member union continued to lead in participation numbers recorded through the Get Into Rugby Programme. Asia Rugby unions contributed 71% of the global GIR numbers.
The Asia Rugby family takes pride in the fact that 41% of the 143,000 participants are girls.
The statistics also show that the performance was a team effort with ten Asia Rugby unions among the top 15 global performers:
1. UAE, 2. India, 3. Pakistan, 5. Hong Kong, 6. Malaysia, 7. Bangladesh, 8. Indonesia, 11. Uzbekistan, 12. Nepal and 13. Sri Lanka.
Besides introducing rugby to new participants in a fun, friendly and safe environment, the GIR programme also focuses on instilling the values of Integrity, Respect, Solidarity, Passion and Discipline, which inspires millions of kids to choose and play the game globally.
The GIR programme is an integral part of the World Rugby strategy to grow the game globally in partnership with its Regional Associations and Unions. The aim of the programme is to encourage players of all ages to Try, Play and Stay in Rugby.
After the phenomenal success of the Asia 1 Million legacy project which introduced over 1,8 million young players to the game in the run up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Asia Rugby’s strategy now moved to encourage and work with member unions on retention strategies to keep the young players in the game. “We are supporting our unions by investing in supporting union workforce and in competitions for young players.” said Benjamin van Rooyen, Asia Rugby’s Development Manager.
