One of Albania’s first rugby teams, KR Tirana has announced a collaboration with British rugby league team, Hull Dockers.
The partnership has been created in order to develop the Albanian rugby scene. Former Hull player, Adam Vernon who now plays for KR Tirana said he was part of a group of players, dubbed “Hullbania” who are working to develop the game in Albania.
He told BBC that he is excited to see the project reach fruition when the COVID-19 pandemic allows.
The Head Coach at the Hull Dockers, Craig Cook said the aim is to get Albanian players over to train in the UK and to send UK players to Albania.
He spoke highly of Albanian rugby player, stating “people will be suprised at the quality of Albanian players”.
Dockers is one of the UK’s oldest teams and was formed in 1880.
Vernon was an international school teacher in Albania for eight years and calls it a “hidden gem with mountains and beaches that are not tourist developed.” He called on people to visit and see for themselves.
Peter Grayburn, the coach for KF Tirana is also from Hull and is looking for more Albanian players to join the team. The Hull Dockers said they want to hear from Albanians in the UK who want to come and watch the game.
