By Vera Tay (Captain), Nimbalkar Arrya Ajit (Vice-Captain), Wang Zixin (Quartermistress), Muralitharan Viehha (Secretary)
“Dump. Half. Run.” What does that mean? These are some of the most basic yet important skills a touch player has to master before challenging herself to this game.
What is Touch Rugby?
A game of touch rugby involves 6 players per team, where players will play for 2 20-minute games with a 5-minute break for half-time. The aim of the game is to bring the ball to the scoreline at the other end of the field and score a touchdown. However, unlike other ball games, attackers can only pass backwards.
When the defender makes a touch, the attacker with the ball has to “dump” the ball (i.e. put it on the ground). Another teammate, known as the half, will pick up the ball and pass it off before she gets touched.
At the same time, defenders must retire 7 metres backwards in line from where the touch was made. The game progresses until 6 touches are made, or until a team scores. There will then be a changeover in possession of the ball, and the game restarts at the centre.
Our CCA sessions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 4.30-6.30pm, at the stadium field. A typical training session starts off with a standardised warm-up routine, consisting of runs and ladder exercises, followed by drills, fitness exercises and games that are directed by our coach. At the end of each training session, we usually stay back to work on our fitness or simply enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Our first friendly with ASRJC!
So, why Touch Rugby?
If you are looking for a CCA experience that emphasises teamwork, hones your communication and athletic skills, and fosters strong bonds between players, then look no further!
In our CCA, you may look forward to participating in many exciting competitions such as Pan Pacific Master games and the National School Games (NSGs) where you get the opportunity to compete against overseas school teams and in the annual JC league. Furthermore, there will be friendly matches against local teams organised for you and your team to have fun, learn from and bond over.
What if I am not athletic or have no knowledge of Touch Rugby?
If you are worried about whether you are competent enough for the sport, fret not as we are a developmental sport that welcomes everyone regardless of their prior experience. In fact, most join the CCA without any background knowledge in Touch Rugby.
While one’s athletic ability would definitely be important, other skills like communication, teamwork and perseverance are key on the field. As a team, you would be given the chance to work on these together. Ultimately, as long as you are passionate about the sport, are willing to train hard and put in your best efforts for our CCA, we certainly welcome you!
Above everything, our CCA is one that does not merely focus on winning, but also on the experiences we share and friendships we make from training together. Although training under the sun or in the rain may be tough initially, the memories we take away make it all worth it. If you value these unique experiences and strong relationships in JC, we encourage you to join our CCA.
We look forward to seeing you at our CCA trials!
