THE GAME OF TOUCH
Touch Rugby or Touch, as it is now known, refers to derivatives of rugby football in which players do not tackle in the traditional, highly physical way, but instead touch their opponents using either hand on any part of the body, clothing, or the ball.
The game emphasizes running, agility and ball handling skills such as passing and catching. It's a fast moving, minimal contact, evasive game played worldwide. There are not really any barriers to participation, and it is a hugely inclusive sport, which actively encourages men and women of all ages and abilities to take part. It's also a great social sport, where you can get to meet many new people from a range of backgrounds.
Here is a short clip from the Total Rugby programme featuring the European Touch Championships hosted in Bristol (July 2010).
As you can see, Touch is one of the few team sports where men and women compete on teams together not only socially but at an international level.
The simplicity of this game is unique; all you need is a rugby ball, a space to play and a group of friends.
The ethos of the competition is enjoyment. Most teams are social sides who are work/friends based, rather than serious rugby club sides. It's all about playing the sport, having fun, then socialising.
It's all about having fun!
Federation of International Touch (FIT)
The Federation of International Touch (FIT), is the organisation that organises and manages international Touch affairs.
The Federation of International Touch was formed at a meeting held in conjunction with the Australian National Championships that were held in Melbourne in 1985.
The Federation of International Touch meets once every two years and elects its office bearers every four years. The major event on the FIT calendar is the World Cup of Touch which is staged every four years. Other events staged or assisted by the Federation consist of The European Touch Championships, the Youth World Cup and the World Schools Championship.
England Touch Association (ETA)
The England Touch Association (ETA) is responsible for the governance and development of Touch in England. They are a Non-Profit organisation currently funded by membership fees and managed by an Executive Committee selected their members.
The ETA is also responsible for the selection, coaching and management of National teams to take part in International competitions, such as the 2008 European Championships in Paris and the 2007 World Cup in South Africa.
The ETA provide affiliated leagues around the country with support and services that ensure anyone wanting to play the sport can do so in a safe and enjoyable environment. Services include referee development, coaching, and player protection policies.
National Touch Series (NTS)
The National Touch Series (NTS) is one of the key participation events organised by the ETA. The NTS is designed to bring together Touch events into a co-ordinated Series, allowing teams to test themselves against the best in the country across 7 events throughout the summer.
The NTS aims to provide a bridge between local leagues and international Touch, exposing players and referees to a higher level of competition, thus strengthening the game in England.
In 2009, the events will be run by affiliated England Touch members, including Bath, Cambridge, London, Nottingham, Newcastle and Thames Valley.
