Chiang Mai Rugby Club

Overview

In November 2025, Crusaders Global Academy delivered a three-day player and coach clinic in Chiang Mai, Thailand, led by Crusaders player and coach Grant Keenan. Hosted at Payap University and organized with Sport Frontier Global Company LTD, the clinic united players and coaches from schools, universities, national programs, and clubs to accelerate rugby development through elite coaching and immersive learning.

The Challenge

Rugby continues to grow rapidly across Thailand, but access to high-performance coaching and structured skill development remains limited for many players outside major hubs. Coaches and athletes sought opportunities to refine technical fundamentals, deepen tactical understanding, and build confidence within a competitive environment—while strengthening rugby pathways across northern Thailand.

‍The Approach ‍

Crusaders Global Academy brought international coaching standards directly to Chiang Mai with a focused clinic designed around core rugby competencies and Crusaders principles of clarity, speed, and intentional play. Over three days, participants engaged in structured training sessions on ball-handling, breakdown play, spatial awareness, defensive alignment, and decision-making under pressure. Coaches in attendance were integrated into coaching delivery and curriculum design, gaining practical tools to enhance their own training environments long after the clinic concluded.

Participation & Community Engagement

The clinic drew committed athletes and coaches from across the region, including:

• Chiang Mai Rugby Club (Men’s)
  
  
• Prince Royal’s College
  
  
• Maejo University
  
  
• Thailand National Sports University (TNSU) — Chiang Mai & Angthong
  
  
• Royal Thai Army Rugby
  
  
• Surin Rugby
  
  
• Rugby North

This blend of school, university, national, and club players fostered a collaborative atmosphere where participants learned from each other while building stronger connections across the Thai rugby community.

‍Outcomes & Impact

Players sharpened fundamental skills and gained heightened rugby IQ, enhancing their on-field decision-making and confidence. Coaches adopted new coaching frameworks and session design methods aligned with professional standards. Beyond technical gains, the clinic reinforced a culture of high performance—strengthening relationships across programs and expanding the foundation for continued rugby growth in northern Thailand.

Looking Forward

Crusaders Global Academy remains committed to supporting international rugby development through tailored clinics, coach education, and long-term partnerships. The success of the Chiang Mai program underscores the value of bringing elite expertise to emerging rugby communities—and the potential for sustained impact as players and coaches apply what they’ve learned in their home environments.