By Chloe Yeo (Captain), Phoebe Tan (Vice-captain), Finna Ng (Quartermistress), Zhou Xiaohan (Secretary)

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 standardized 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.

So, why Touch Rugby? 

Touch rugby is a face-paced and energetic non-contact sport. It is an exhilarating way to stay active and feel the excitement of a team sport. Our team prides ourself in being a supportive and inclusive community where members can learn and grow together. As such, joining us would be a fantastic opportunity to hone your skills and build long-lasting friendships. 

So, what are some of the events that you can participate in by joining us? You will get the opportunity to participate in various tournaments, such as the Pan Pacific All Schools Touch Championships and the annual National Junior Colleges Championship (NJCC). Besides those, our CCA also organises friendly matches with various schools to help us all gain experience playing the sport in a competition setting while creating lasting memories with one another.

What if I don’t have any sports experience? 

Worried about whether you are skilled enough for touch rugby? Don’t be! We are a developmental sport CCA which means that absolutely no prior experience is needed. As a matter of fact, many of our members started with no background in this sport. While one’s athleticism will definitely be helpful, in Raffles Touch Rugby, we value perseverance, team work and diligence the most. To be a part of this team, is a journey that not only improves yourself, but others as well that extends beyond the field. 

If you’re still reading, stop contemplating— We’d love to see you at our CCA trials!