When my son received an invitation to attend the Haka Rugby Global camp in Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil, he practically burst with excitement.

As a kid who's borderline obsessed with rugby, this was a dream come true - the kind of opportunity he's been imagining ever since he first picked up a ball as he has always watched the All Blacks play with nothing but admiration, captivated by their skill, passion, and the powerful legacy they represent. Haka Rugby Global, known for its deep connection to the rich rugby traditions of New Zealand, has a history of nurturing young talent through immersive training experiences inspired by the iconic All Blacks. The camp promised not just top-notch coaching, but also a chance to learn the legendary Haka, making it the ultimate experience for any young rugby enthusiast.

Follow me on Instagram @MotherOfGrom to see a video reel of Bo's time in this camp

Haka Rugby Global was founded by Troy Nathan and Regan Sue, both former professional rugby players who have transitioned into successful coaching careers. Troy, now a professional Head Coach, and Regan, also a dedicated professional coach, share a deep love for rugby and a profound connection to their Māori culture. Their passion drives them to travel the world, bringing the spirit of New Zealand rugby to young athletes across various countries. The three-day camps they run are structured to deliver an all-encompassing rugby experience, combining rigorous skills training, game tactics, and fitness with a rich cultural immersion. Participants not only improve their athletic abilities but also gain a meaningful understanding of the Māori traditions, particularly the Haka, which is a powerful symbol of their heritage.

Haka Rugby Global is once again hosting its renowned summer rugby camps across Europe, Asia, America, South America, and the UAE. The camp my son, Bo, attended in Dowlais was led by three exceptional coaches: Bernie Muaiava Taulealo, Adrian Hall, and Kane Hancy, who truly deserve recognition. As an ex-professional dancer, I understand how crucial the relationship between coach and student is to the learning process. These coaches balanced their gentle and kind approach with a strong, knowledgeable presence that commanded respect. Their ability to connect with the kids was nothing short of perfect, leaving Bo completely in awe of them.

It already sounds like the perfect rugby camp, right? But to make the experience even more incredible, each child was given a Haka Rugby Global kit, creating a unified and professional look for all the participants. On the final day, family and friends were invited to a special ceremony where we were warmly welcomed into the Haka Rugby Global family. We had the privilege of watching the children showcase the skills and knowledge they had gained over the camp through a series of matches, and the highlight was witnessing them perform the Haka. It was a powerful and unforgettable moment that truly captured the spirit of the camp.

A heartfelt thank you to Troy for this incredible opportunity, and to Bernie, Adrian, and Kane for your kindness and expert coaching. This experience is something Bo will never forget, and it has given him the confidence he needs as he transitions from tag rugby into tackling. We can't wait to welcome you back to Welsh soil in the future.

If you are interested in joining the Haka Rugby Global family you can find all the information about their camps here: https://www.hakarugbyglobal.nz/

Instagram: HakaRugbyGlobal
Facebook: HakaRugbyCamp
‍