Launched in 2018, the Al Maha programme seeks to mentor and encourage Emirati women to participate in the sport and has seen the team compete in various local, regional, and international-invitational tournaments. Reed Smith’s partnership with the Al Maha team aims to develop pathways between the game of Rugby and business through providing mentorship to the players.
Sachin Kerur, Reed Smith’s Middle East offices managing partner, said: “It has been a real privilege to partner with the Al Maha all-Emirati female rugby team. Their growth and development over the last three years has been nothing short of remarkable and we are very proud to be able to continue to support them.”
“At Reed Smith we are dedicated to driving progress within our communities and the Al Maha girls are an embodiment of this every time they lace up their boots and get on the pitch.”
Mohamed Al Zaabi, General Secretary UAE Rugby, said: “UAERF’s Al Maha (programme) is a very important initiative in UAE Rugby’s overall development strategy, it is also a programme that resonates deeply with Asia Rugby and World Rugby’s commitment to identifying pathways to growing the women’s game from grass roots through to National representation. Our girls continue to impress, on and off the pitch, with their dedication to their sport and to inspiring our (Emirati) female youth to follow the rugby path.” “The Board is delighted to continue this journey with Reed Smith and we thank Sachin, and his team - locally and globally - for their support and for continuing their partnership with UAE Rugby.”
Saud Al Nuaimi, Head of Marketing and Investment Committee, added: “Such partnerships are invaluable as UAE Rugby continues its upward trajectory in being the leader and setting the benchmark for youth development in the region. UAE Rugby and Reed Smith hold very similar values, such as providing first-rate opportunities for individuals to learn and excel, and, through the extension of this association we confidently move into the next phase of developing Al Maha and adding depth to the Emirati-female rugby player.”