Empire Rugby Academy embarked on its first-ever international tour.
Dubai: Launched just last year, Empire Rugby Academy has quickly made its mark as the UAE’s first female-only high-performance rugby programme.
The academy offers elite-level coaching, strength and conditioning programmes, and access to high-performance camps designed to help players progress to the next level of the game.
On the final weekend of March, Empire Rugby Academy embarked on its first-ever international tour, taking part in the highly competitive Portugal Rugby Youth Festival, a 15s tournament that brought together teams from around the world.
The squad travelled with 39 players from Empire Rugby Academy, forming two teams at U15 and U18 level, alongside four invitational players from Loughborough College. Neve Lamont captained the U15s, while Chloe Corby led the U18s.
In the lead-up to the tour, uncertainty across the UAE left the academy unsure whether the trip would go ahead, with shifting school holidays, flight cancellations, flooding, and wider disruption creating a challenging backdrop. However, the resilience and determination of players, parents, and coaches ensured they ultimately made it to Portugal.
Arriving in Lisbon felt like an achievement in itself for Empire Rugby Academy. Friday was spent exploring the city and strengthening team bonds before a shared meal, followed by a special shirt presentation where each player received her jersey in an emotional moment enjoyed by parents both in Portugal and by those watching from home via Zoom.
Day one saw the U15s make a strong start with a 19–0 win over Dumfries Saints, followed by a narrow 12–7 defeat to Kilkenny, before finishing in style with a dominant 31–0 victory over Centro.
The U18s were placed in a highly competitive pool, narrowly losing their opening match 10–7 to Truro College in a closely fought contest, followed by a 19–5 defeat to Doylestown Rugby Academy. They then responded emphatically with a commanding 50–0 victory over Centro.
With tired bodies but high spirits, both teams returned for finals day ready to compete. The U15s remained in Cup contention, defeating Dunbar Dragons 24–0 before booking their place in the final with a 29–5 win over Sullis/Lisboa.
The showpiece final on the main pitch proved to be a standout moment, as they faced Kilkenny once again. This time, they delivered an outstanding performance, with relentless defence and tries from Grace Gordon and Hattie Bennett sealing a thrilling 14–12 victory to be crowned Cup champions.
The U18s progressed to the Trophy play-offs and made a strong statement with a 31–0 win over Dumfries Saints, securing their place in the final. Against Thunder, they produced another excellent display to claim a 29–12 victory and lift the Trophy against the tough Canadian side.
Alongside their on-pitch success, Empire Rugby Academy was also recognised as the Fair Play Team of the Tournament, highlighting the squad’s attitude, energy, and sportsmanship throughout the weekend.
Hayden Gibbs also earned individual recognition, being named U15 Player of the Tournament after a standout series of performances.
