Doha: HE Minister for Energy and Industry Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, QRF officials general secretary Ali al-Malki, Senior Coordinator Samuel Rico, national coach Usaia Biumaiwai, team manager Hamad Abdulla together with players from the national Qatar Rugby Sevens competition attended the Blue Falcons Beach Rugby and Stand Up Paddle day which was held at Katara Beach last Saturday.
The event marked the end of the rugby season for the Blue Falcons U-12, U-14 and U-16 boy’s teams. The initiative was created by Blue Falcons coach Fabrice Lumale who wanted to give the boys a hand at different sports while still having fun in the sun.
His Excellency Dr Mohammed al-Sada, who was in attendance was delighted with the enthusiasm demonstrated by the Blue Falcons’ young players. He was equally upbeat about the QRF’s attendance and support.
He said: “Congratulations to both the Blue Falcons and the QRF for their push of rugby development and in promoting the concept of health through sport”.
QRF deputy Ali al-Malki also congratulated the Blue Falcons for their initiative and the role they are playing in developing and challenging children’s motor skills. He said: “It is imperative to inject our youth with an active upbringing like what the Blue Falcons are doing here today. Fun sports like rugby bring joy and happiness to life and reduce stress and other negativities.
"The inclusion of the standup paddle is a great concept encouraging fine motor skills which aid in the growth of intelligence and extend continuously throughout the stages of human development”.
 “The QRF is very pleased with the Blue Falcons consistent rugby development programme and have our full support.” He also commended QRF’s senior co-ordinator Samuel Rico for his role and involvement with Qatar based schools and kid’s rugby.
Organiser and Blue Falcons coach Fabrice Lumale said: “We wanted to offer the boys some fun with beach rugby but we also wanted to test their ability with the stand up paddle. Many skills can be learnt from the stand up paddle such as balance, co-ordination, strength, control, patience and leadership all which are important for rugby and life in general.”
Lumale continued: “To make things more exciting for our young boys I spoke to QRF’s general secretary Ali al-Malki who agreed to bring some of the national rugby players down to play against our kids in a friendly touch rugby match.”
“The day was an absolute success with players and officials playing with our juniors thrilling them to bits. Afterwards our boys were treated to trophies and prizes. On behalf of the Blue Falcons, parents and kids I wish to express my gratitude to His Excellency Dr Mohammed al-Sada and the QRF for their attendance and sharing their time with us.”