No Touch Rugby

Touch Rugby was inspired by Rugby League but instead of six tackles, it requires six touches before the ball changes hands to the other side.

18:06 11 May 2015

Rugby has been slightly modified so men and women of all ages and ability can play together. Touch Rugby, which was inspired by Rugby League, is minimal contact and instead of six tackles, it requires six touches before the ball changes hands to the other side. 

 

This means no more scrums or kicking. 

 

Peter Faassen de Heer of Scottish Touch said: "Being able to catch and pass a ball helps, but it's not mandatory,"

 

He added: "The game came from Rugby League originally.” 

 

"In Rugby League you have six tackles. Here we have six touches before the ball changes hands to the other side."

 

Jackson Thirgood, who previously played Rugby Union, says he enjoys playing a mixed game.

 

"The girls are actually some of the best people on the pitch," he says.

 

Iona Smith says: "It's quite daunting at the start because all the boys have played rugby and seem to know what they are doing.

 

"But once you get the hang of it, it's really good fun."

 

Iona’s friend, Megan added: "I had no idea what I was doing at the start, but you learn quite quickly.

 

"I wouldn't have expected to play it as much or to have enjoyed it as much as I did."