Beach Rugby League Tournament Showcases Growing Domestic Game in Lebanon

The Lebanese Rugby League Federation (LRLF) continued its 2026 domestic development program with the successful staging of its Beach Rugby League Tournament on Saturday, 27 June at C Lemon Okeibe.

The event brought together nine teams across the men's and women's divisions, providing a full day of competitive rugby league in a fast-paced beach format.

The men's competition was played across two pools, with teams competing through the group stage before progressing into the latter stages of the tournament. The format produced an entertaining day of rugby league, with the reduced playing area and beach conditions placing an emphasis on fitness, support play, ball movement and decision-making.

The tournament also provided another important competitive opportunity for Lebanon's growing women's rugby league program, with Aconites, AUB Women and Jamhour taking part.

Aconites produced a strong tournament to finish as women's champions, with Zena recognised as the team's Most Valuable Player.

The event was also a significant milestone for AUB Women, who took part in their first rugby league tournament. Their participation represents another positive step in expanding women's rugby league within Lebanon's university and development pathways, with Zahraa Al Masri recognised as AUB's standout performer.

The men's competition featured a mix of established domestic clubs and developing players, creating opportunities for both experienced players and newcomers to compete in a different form of the game.

The tournament formed part of the LRLF's wider strategy to provide regular and varied playing opportunities throughout the year, complementing traditional rugby league with formats such as Nines and Beach Rugby League.

Events such as the Beach Rugby League Tournament also allow the Federation to introduce new players to the sport, provide further match experience for developing athletes and officials, and create additional opportunities for Lebanon's clubs, universities and women's teams to compete.

The Lebanese Rugby League Federation thanks all participating teams, players, coaches, managers, match officials, medical staff, volunteers and supporters who contributed to the successful delivery of the tournament.

The LRLF will continue to expand its domestic rugby league program throughout 2026, with further men's, women's, university and development activity scheduled across Lebanon.