An innovative Touch Rugby League programme to help drive up participation in the social game will be launched this summer.
Devised by the Rugby Football League, the Foundation Touch Series will be delivered by pro’ club foundations, giving them the flexibility to provide different levels of activity to help players aged 14 and over improve their skills and confidence in a social setting.
Activities will be delivered over a five-year period with support from the RFL and, as player demand grows, club foundations will have the opportunity to expand their offer from weekly sessions and community events into competitive leagues.
RFL Social Officer, Bradley Kelk, says:
“Social variants of the game are a major focus area for us and will become increasingly significant over the next five years. Our aim is to create a sustainable playing model by supporting club foundations to deliver weekly sessions, which will hopefully lead to the formation of teams and local leagues.
“As part of the new programme we are also organising a new event to showcase the social benefits of the offer, which will see six foundations selected to compete in a round robin tournament with one being crowned winner.”
Wigan Warriors enjoyed tremendous turnouts at their Touch activities last year, so they will be hosting the inaugural Premier Touch Rugby League event at Robin Park on Saturday 29 July. The one-day extravaganza is open to everyone aged 14 and above and will incorporate the six-team tournament alongside live music from local band Casino Club, food and beverage stalls and a fairground.
Former England international and Premier Touch Rugby League Ambassador, Kevin Brown, adds:
“When I retired, I wasn’t quite ready to give up playing and that’s why I decided to take up Touch Rugby League. It is a brilliant format of the game, and I would really encourage anyone to get involved at their local club foundation.
“The Robin Park event will be a fantastic occasion, and we are really looking forward to welcoming foundation players and the local community on the day. It’s not to be missed!”
Tickets for July’s inaugural Premier Touch Rugby League event, priced £10 for adults and £5 for children, are available online now at wwrl.net/ptt
More information about Touch Rugby League is available via the RFL website.
