Kids at a Haka camp

Do you know what a powhiri is? How about the Haka? Well, if you're sat there scratching your head, figuring out just what these terms mean, then why not put your best foot forward and learn something different this summer.
We're just weeks away from schools shutting up shop for the long, hot summer, but with that comes the dawn of the UAE's much-loved summer camp offerings.
From football, to cricket, and arts and crafts to swimming, parents may have pulled the short straw having to work over the next few months, but the UAE has got them covered when it comes to keeping the kids entertained.
One camp that has caught Khaleej Times' attention this time around is the Haka Rugby Camp, which is showcasing for the first time in Dubai.
More than just a sports camp, Troy Nathan, co-owner of Haka Rugby Global, said this experience is "50 per cent rugby, and 50 per cent culture".
"We're about promoting multiculturalism and rugby as a tool to develop future world leaders," he said.
With Dubai a melting pot of different nationalities and cultures, Nathan said boys and girls enrolled in the five day camp (from July 30 to August 3) will learn the traditions and culture surrounding the world famous Haka - a traditional war cry, war dance, or challenge from the Maori people of New Zealand - all while being coached by professional rugby players and former stars of the mighty New Zealand All Blacks.
Although the camp has quality, professional coaches on board, Nathan said they're not trying to build "future Rugby players", but more, they're aiming to build on a child's personal development.
"Children learn a discipline and respect like never before and parents find their children have grown in a short space of time," he said.
And besides sporting skills, he said children will learn the importance of brotherhood and respect too.
But as we said, Dubai has lots on offer this summer as far as camps are concerned. So, if you're more into your cricket, then Qasim Ali from the ICC Academy (ICCA) Junior Summer Camp at Dubai Sports City, has just the ticket.
"Our summer camps give children the opportunity to continue physical development through cricket, all while making new friends. It's all about having fun over the summer," he said.
While in camp, Ali said children can expect expertly designed cricket coaching, video analysis to improve skills, as well as a healthy bit of competition.
And although their camp runs five days a week for the first four weeks (from 9am to 12pm), Ali said for working parents, they can drop their kids off early and pick them up later, at no additional cost.
"For parents convenience we open our drop off zone from 8.30am and they can collect children a little later too, up to 1pm, if more convenient."
kelly@khaleejtimes.com
 

Know some of the summer camps in UAE

(1) ICC Academy Junior Summer Camp - ICC Academy, Dubai Sports City