Touch rugby is a growing branch of rugby that allows the game to become even more inclusive for both men and women. The game is a very tactical and quick version of the rugby we all know and love but instead of the contact elements or even pulling a tag, a one-handed touch is enough to stop an opponent in their tracks. The beauty of touch rugby is that it allows players to develop their non-contact skills to new levels. Skills such as passing, handling, decision making, and agility play a major role in the success of a player and a team in this brilliant branch of rugby. 

As many of the regular members and followers of Suttonians RFC will know, touch rugby in Suttonians has been a fantastic event throughout the past two summers. The guidance and support of the Irish Touch Association (ITA) during our events has opened the door for some of our own young talent to play touch rugby at the highest level. Suttonians RFC were delight to see 4 of our current Suttonians players representing Ireland in the UK and France over the past number of weeks. Fergus Flood and Alex Cassidy were selected, and played for the Ireland Mixed team in the European Senior Touch Championships in the Mixed Open category. The tournament was played over 5 days in Nottingham. Both Fergus and Alex were fortunate enough to be selected for all 9 matches across the 5 days. 

Following in the footsteps of Fergus and Alex are Conor Cribbin and Josh Hansen. Both Conor and Josh represented their country at the Junior European Championships as part of the U18’s Irish Touch squad. Conor and Josh enjoyed great success with their team at the Championship as they received silver medals after finishing second in their category. It is once again brilliant to see our Suttonians RFC young talent not only representing us in Station Road and within the boundaries of the Leinster League, but also to see them representing our club with such distinction on a European level.