Touch rugby is similar to traditional rugby but removes the physical tackling aspect, making it a safer and more accessible sport for a wide range of players. Here's everything you need to know to get started.
What is Touch Rugby?
Touch rugby (also referred to as Touch Football/ Touch Footy or simply as Touch) is a fast, non-contact game focusing on agility, teamwork, and skill. Suitable for all ages, it’s a great way to get fit and build skills. This guide covers the essential rules, basic equipment, and tips to help you start confidently.
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Key Rules of Touch Rugby
Field Size: The pitch is typically 70m long by 50m wide, with in-goal areas at each end.
Teams and Substitutions: Each team fields six players, with up to 14 total players to allow for rolling substitutions, keeping intensity high.
Kick-off: Games start with a tap from the halfway line, where the ball is placed on the ground, tapped forward, and then passed.
Moving the Ball: Players advance by running or passing backward or sideways. Forward passes result in a turnover, so passing accuracy is essential.
Touch and Rollball: After a touch from a defender, the attacking player performs a “rollball,” moving the ball backward. Teams have six touches to score before a turnover.
Scoring a Try: A try is scored by grounding the ball in the opposition’s in-goal area, counting as one point.
Turnovers: Possession changes after six touches, a forward pass, a dropped ball, or an interception by the defending team.
Offside and Penalties: Defenders must retreat five metres after each touch. Failure to retreat leads to a penalty for the attacking team.
Rolling Substitutions: Substitutions happen anytime via the designated substitution box, keeping the game fast-paced.
Game Length: Matches typically consist of two 20-minute halves, with timing varying for tournaments or skill levels.
Equipment Needed for Touch Rugby
Touch rugby requires minimal equipment. Here’s what to bring:
Sportswear: Comfortable athletic clothing.
Footwear: Trainers or boots with good grip.
Touch Rugby Ball: If practising, a ball suited to touch rugby is ideal.
Beginner Drills to Practise
Starting with basic drills will help develop skills quickly:
Passing Drills: Practise passing backward in pairs or groups to build accuracy.
Evasion Skills: Work on sidestepping and sprinting to dodge defenders.
Agility Training: Simple cone drills improve footwork, essential for manoeuvring around opponents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is touch rugby suitable for? Touch rugby is suitable for all ages, from children to adults, as the non-contact rules make it safe and accessible.
Is touch rugby good for fitness? Yes, it’s fantastic for cardiovascular fitness, agility, and endurance due to its fast-paced nature.
Can you play touch rugby year-round? Yes, touch rugby can be played on grass or indoor pitches, making it adaptable to different seasons.
Watching Touch Rugby for Tips
Watching touch rugby matches, either online or in person, provides valuable insights into team tactics, positioning, and defensive strategies. Look for local leagues or international games for inspiration.
Glossary of Key Terms
Try: The act of grounding the ball in the opponent’s in-goal area, scoring one point.
Rollball: The action of rolling the ball backward after a touch.
Tap Off: Starting the game with a tap on the halfway line.
Offside: Defenders failing to retreat the required distance after a touch.
