Omar Darwish, an 18-year-old rugby player from Gala Wanderers, has recently been selected to represent Syria in the Men’s 7s rugby team, marking a significant milestone in his sporting career. His selection has been characterized as the realization of a long-held aspiration for the young athlete, who has been affiliated with Gala Rugby since his formative years in school.
In an interview, Darwish expressed his initial disbelief upon learning of his selection, mentioning that he and his parents felt compelled to verify the information on the Syrian Rugby website before fully comprehending the gravity of the situation. The palpable excitement and joy in his voice were notable as he conveyed, “It has been my dream to play for the Syrian Rugby team and I just cannot believe this has happened to me, I’m so pleased.”
Darwish is poised to join the team for training in readiness for the upcoming Arab Rugby Sevens Championship, slated to occur in Saudi Arabia. The championship will encompass teams from over 10 countries, including the defending champions, UAE, Egypt, Libya, and the host country, Saudi Arabia.
Despite the impending challenges, Darwish is eagerly anticipating the experience, expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming training camp and tournament. He remarked, “[I] just cannot wait to experience how fast and physical it will be, along with playing in the heat in Saudi Arabia.”
The committed rugby player made a point of expressing his gratitude to those who have guided and supported him throughout his journey. He conveyed his appreciation for Gala Rugby Club, Galashiels Academy, and the coaches and players at the Wanderers, acknowledging their instrumental role in his development. Furthermore, he conveyed his thanks to everyone who had sent him messages of encouragement and support on social media, emphasizing his gratitude for their kindness.
Darwish’s accomplishment is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport, and it serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes in the community. His selection for the Syrian Men’s 7s rugby team has undoubtedly brought pride and joy to his hometown of Gala, shedding light on the promising talent within the local rugby scene.
As Darwish prepares to embark on this new chapter in his rugby career, the support and well-wishes from the community will undoubtedly serve as a source of motivation for him. The enthusiasm and anticipation for his journey in representing Syria at the international level is palpable, and it is a moment that showcases the extraordinary potential of young athletes in the region.