Asia Rugby has announced the expansion of its Try Together Program, now supporting ten Member Unions with the backing of Emirates. This initiative aims to enhance grassroots rugby and fortify developmental pathways throughout Asia.
Expanding Horizons for Grassroots Rugby
Building on its initial cycle in 2025–26, the program will now encompass 28 developmental projects in countries including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Jordan, Lebanon, Macau, Nepal, Palestine, Sri Lanka, and Syria.
The initiatives focus on increasing grassroots participation, promoting women's and girls’ rugby, enhancing domestic competitions, and advancing training and educational programs. With financial assistance and technical support, the Try Together Program enables Member Unions to turn their rugby ambitions into actionable opportunities for players, coaches, and communities.
A Successful Launch and Progress So Far
Initially endorsed by the Asia Rugby Council in November 2024, the Try Together Program officially launched in Mumbai on June 28, 2025, with representatives from six founding unions: Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, and Macau.
The first phase of the program set ambitious goals, with 27 projects designed to engage around 2,830 participants. The positive impact of the support is evident, as various unions demonstrate how targeted initiatives create viable opportunities across different levels of the sport.
In Bangladesh, the Try Together Under-16 Sevens School Rugby Tournament drew participation from 16 teams across 11 schools, with both boys and girls competing. Meanwhile, Cambodia re-entered regional competitions after a three-year hiatus, supported by national team preparations and participation in tournaments. Additionally, Macau offered coaching and refereeing courses, while Brunei facilitated opportunities for university students through the IPT Rugby Tournament.
Future Initiatives Strengthening Rugby in Asia
The expansion for the 2026 program allows for even greater engagement, enabling more Member Unions to tailor their projects to suit local needs and priorities.
Notable projects include Nepal's ambition to introduce rugby to 35 to 40 schools, and Sri Lanka’s initiative to bolster girls’ rugby efforts across seven provinces. Collectively, the goal is to establish robust foundations by providing more playing opportunities, enhanced access to education and training, and sustainable pathways linking grassroots experiences to domestic and regional competitions.
“The Try Together Program embodies our commitment to empowering developing rugby unions with growth opportunities,” stated Qais Al Dhalai, President of Asia Rugby. “Investing in projects and people is crucial for building a more inclusive rugby community across Asia.”
Accountability and Measurable Outcomes
The revised program for 2026 introduces comprehensive planning and accountability measures that include Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor growth in participation, player retention, and women's rugby engagement, alongside the delivery of competitions and player welfare.
Every participating union will pursue established targets with structured reporting and technical guidance from Asia Rugby. This systematic approach will facilitate tracking of progress, identifying challenges, and assessing the overall impact of each project.
Benjamin van Rooyen, Chief Executive Officer of Asia Rugby, emphasized the importance of sustainable development. “The inclusion of ten unions highlights our intent to ensure every investment yields measurable and enduring benefits for our Member Unions.”
With Emirates’ continued support, the Try Together Program is set to further Asia Rugby’s vision of a diverse and sustainable rugby community, building upon the foundations laid by earlier participants and allowing more young people to connect with the sport.