TOUCH RUGBY IS growing in popularity since its introduction to Ireland just over a decade ago.
Because of its philosophy as a “sport for all,” you get every type of sportsperson kitting out to take part and many are keen to tell their friends all about their latest blitz or league game.
With that in mind, whether you play or just know somebody who does, you might recognise one or two of these:
1. The Katie Taylor All-Rounder
Taylor, of course, is an Olympic gold medallist in boxing and has represented Ireland at football. A lot of teams will have a woman who is fitting a game of touch rugby in after her basketball practice and before she heads off to soccer training.
She’s the one you want to want to pass to when you’re in need of a last-minute try.
2. The Guy You’re Sure Plays For Leinster
He’s built like he’s in the gym every day and you’re almost certain you saw him come on as a sub in a Pro12 game before. Mostly though, you’re sick of seeing the back of him as he skips through for yet another score because of course he plays for the other team.
3. The Lad Who Always Has To Come Off With An Injury
He has the dodgiest hamstrings known to man and only has to look at the other team to know his cruciate is going to start acting up. However, you can always count on him to join in the celebrations when you win, even if he was only on the field for five minutes.
4. The Woman Who Never Wants To Come Off
The ying to the above’s yang, every team has a player who wants to play every minute of every game. While you can’t fault her heart, half the fun is that every player in touch gets their turn on the pitch.
5. The Bloke Who Thinks He’s An All Black
He comes to training in the full gear and thinks they’ll beat the Lions 3-0 this summer. But really, he’s from Galway and is scared of flying so is unlikely to end up near New Zealand any time soon.
Cadbury Boost are proud sponsors of Irish rugby and are running the Cadbury #BoostYourAwareness Touch Rugby Blitz on Friday, 19 May at Lansdowne Rugby Club. If your team would like to enter, please click here.
All proceeds from the Cadbury #BoostYourAwareness Touch Rugby Blitz go to Aware.
