The Touch union is the RFU’s new non-contact format of the game. It’s fun, fast-flowing and social, while still building on the core rugby union skills – perfect for any age or playing ability. The rules can be amended to suit all participants’ needs and matches or sessions can be played with mixed genders
As well as the RFU TOUCH UNION programme, there are more informal touch groups at many clubs and Berkshire RFU will be supporting and organising other events throughout the season.
(Photos by John Taplin aka @RugbyGrandad)
Get into THE TOUCH UNION in Berkshire
Why not stay fit and ensure that you keep a rugby ball in your hands at one of the RFU Touch Union venues across Berkshire?
Touch Rugby is accessible to everyone, whether you are a current rugby player, looking to get back into rugby after some time out of the game or simply looking to try something new.
Touch Rugby is a minimal contact, 6-a-side game, based loosely on rugby. With no kicking, scrummaging or tackling, the game is mixed allowing men and women to play on the same teams. Touch Rugby is a great way to stay fit and socialise throughout the summer.
Touch Rugby has been played in Berkshire for over 15 years, and now with three RFU Touch Unions and two Touch Leagues in the county, there are lots of opportunities to get involved in the sport. RFU Touch Unions are social sessions, giving you a chance to run out and learn the basics of the game.
Touch Rugby Clubs:
MOHAWKS TOUCH RUGBY
Maidenhead RFC ‘Mohawks’: Sessions every Wednesday evening at Braywick Park. These fun social Touch sessions for men and women, no commitment needed.
Please contact: phillipssamantha@rocketmail.com for more information.
THAMES VALLEY VIKINGS
Thames Valley Vikings hold weekly sessions at Berkshire County Sports Club, Sonning Lane, Sonning, Reading.
Please contact: phillipssamantha@rocketmail.com for training times and days.
RED SOX TOUCH RUGBY
Red Sox Touch Rugby Thatcham runs weekly Touch Rugby sessions at (Thatcham RFC) Henwick Worthy Sports Ground RG18 3BN, on Monday at 7 – 8pm every week. Everyone is welcome, sessions cost £4 and players are able to pay on a week-by-week basis.
Email: touchrugby@thatchamrfc.co.uk
PLEASE NOTE – no screw in studs are allowed (moulded boots or trainers only), and gum shields are not needed!
Touch Rugby Leagues
There are 2 RFU Touch Union Leagues in the county held at Maidenhead RFC and Berkshire County Sports Club, nr Reading. 8-week Leagues provide weekly competition for men and women, with a 40-minute refereed game. Teams come from rugby clubs, companies and individuals, and players receive a playing shirt and team ball.
Maidenhead Touch Union League, Maidenhead RFC, Braywick Park: 8-week league starts on Tuesday 22nd April, with games starting from 6:30pm. A team of 6 is required (with additional substitutes allowed) and with a Men’s and Mixed League, there is something for everyone. To find out more, or to enter a team/as an individual, please visit: Maidenhead Touch Union.
Reading Touch Union League, Berkshire County Sports and Social Club, Sonning: 8-week league starts on Wednesday 23rd April, with games starting from 6:30pm. Men and women welcome to play. Teams shirts and a ball for every team, 40-minute game per night, more for those who want it. Visit: Reading O2 Touch League
Maidenhead & Reading O2 Touch Leagues will be hosting the following Mixed, Men’s, Women’s & Junior (Year 7 and above) League Divisions this Spring. You can register as a team, group of friend or individual on www.in2touch.com.
Any league queries, please contact Sammie Phillips: sammie@in2touch.com
Reading O2Touch League – Berkshire County Sports Club, Sonning Lane, Reading, RG4 6ST
Maidenhead O2Touch League – Maidenhead Rugby Club, Braywick Park, Braywick Road, RG4 6ST
We will also be holding league taster days for teachers, referees and juniors.
Touch Rugby Festivals & Tournaments
We will be joining forces with clubs to run touch rugby tournaments for all local clubs (adults, juniors and families) to get involved in this summer and look forward to engaging with Berkshire RFU to promote these and support rugby initiatives in the county also.
Updated 15th May 2023
