The Basics
A Touch team comprises up to 14 players, of any gender or age, with only six players at any one time on the pitch (half a rugby pitch, playing widthways). Unlimited substitutions at any time means a player can go on, run about for 90 seconds and come off if they want… and go back on again when they have recovered!
The aim is for the team with the ball to score a try by running angles, timing passes and outwitting their opponents, to then put the ball down over the opponent's' try line.
- Touch balls are smaller than usual rugby balls, so they are easy to catch and pass for any-sized hands.
- There is no tackling, no kicking, and virtually no contact. The attacking player with the ball can only be touched lightly by an opponent, and they then have to dump the ball between their legs and another player on their team will pick it up and pass/run.
- After six touches, or if the ball is dropped, the ball goes to the other side, who then work to score a try.
- A Touch must be light, with a bent arm, and can be made to any part of the body, although not the head (so glasses can be worn during play.)
- No particular kit is needed, except good-grip trainers, otherwise football boots with plastic, not metal studs.
It is like a fabulous, structured game of chase and be chased!
