THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF
ISSUE 16
SEPTEMBER 2015
national
2015 NATION
AL
CHAMPIONYOUTH
SHIPS
championships
16-19 SEPT
SUNSHINE
EMBER
COAST STAD
IUM
national
championships
www.touchfootball.com.au
Winning partnership
Proudly supporting Touch Football Australia
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) invests in sport at all levels in Australia.
We work with Touch Football Australia to ensure Australian players excel in the
international sporting arena whilst increasing participation in touch football.
Touch Football Australia is one of many national sporting organisations
partnering with us to develop sport in Australia.
Contents
A Message from the CEO 2
Around The Grounds 6
2015 Bundaberg Cup 8
2015 TWC Wrap –
A Sky Full of Stars! 10
NRL/TFA Alliance update 16
2015 Silent Sports Challenge 18
Sporting Schools 19
TFA Touchpoints 20
The Bell Tolls 22
Maruta Shoots For The Sky 24
In Focus 26
Acknowledgments
Touch Football Australia would like to thank www.energyimages.com.au and www.aisle5.com.au for supplying past and current
images for use in this magazine and on the Touch Football Australia website.
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A message from the CEO
Welcome to the 16th edition of
The Hard Wrap, Touch Football
Australia’s (TFA) official magazine.
The magazine continues to deliver the
latest news and views from across all the
states to the Touch Football community.
This edition features the Harvey Norman
National Youth Championships (NYC)
which returns to Kawana Waters on the
beautiful Sunshine Coast of Queensland.
The National Youth Championships is
ideally situated at the beginning of our
summer season and says so much
about where we need to focus as a
sport. The recently launched ‘It All Starts
Here’ campaign captures the focus of
transitioning young athletes through the
dual track pathway of the NRL and indeed
Touch Football. Whether the dream is to
one day be a top class Touch Football
player taking on the rest of the world or a
professional career in the NRL, everyone can
start and follow the journey within our game. Touch Football is everyone’s opportunity
to be a NRL star whether it is in your
local club, the highest level possible or
simply with your friends in the school
yard. We have an unbelievably strong
participation pathway which embraces
you from the introduction to the game
through to playing with your family in the
future. This is one of the most inviting
things about our sport and we believe
it will ensure our long term growth
aspirations are achieved. The obvious benefits for both sports
aligning include bringing together well
over one million participants across the
nation and an opportunity for all ages,
abilities, and genders playing our games
every day of the week, all year round.
The future is indeed exciting and we are
setting revised growth targets beyond
our previous expectations through
increased resourcing and capacity by
virtue of the partnership.
The Alliance is focussed on creating
‘Australia’s largest sporting community’
by offering ‘a place on the field for
everyone’ - clearly defined outcomes
which capture the growth aspirations of
both sports and the inclusive nature that
can be provided through collaboration
are becoming clear to all concerned.
appeal of our game but also the alliance
in action.
As our young athletes take to the stage
at the National Youth Championships we
look forward to seeing them progress
to a similar position in the future and
look forward to witnessing your time
carrying this great responsibility. The elite
element is but one aspiration for the sport
and we look forward to the growth that can
be achieved through the school system,
junior programs and investment in the value
proposition associated with our affiliated
network. We have achieved some incredible
results as a sport over the last four years
and now look to what Touch Football can
and will be in 2020 and beyond.
We have such fantastic internal role
models and also some outstanding
talents that you can watch weekly in
the NRL or indeed at your local affiliate. Having recently attended numerous
events around the country, it is clear
that the alignment with the NRL is being
embraced by the Rugby League family. From the Storm to the Raiders, through
to the Sea Eagles, Eels, Panthers,
Sharks and Roosters and up to
the Titans, Cowboys and Broncos
there are numerous examples
of how we are working together. The stories from the athletes
themselves are also resonating
with the aligned message that
every journey started with a game
We take care of everything from ‘Go to Whoa’
of Touch Footy.
You don’t even have to leave your desk!
GOLD COAST
TROPHIES &
ENGRAVING
For those within our own pathway
the 2015 World Cup was simply
incredible. The display of our
athletes on the world stage was
simply first class and those that
witnessed the performances are
very proud of all concerned. The
plans and processes put in place
by our High Performance Program
came to conclusion with Australia
winning all but one division in May
2015. We congratulate and thank
all concerned for the way in which
they represented our organisation
and indeed themselves on the
greatest stage of all. Again, our
relationship with the NRL saw
our Open athletes on Free to Air
Television which is not only an
outstanding demonstration of the
Sports Awards Academic Aw
Namebars Corporate Awards
Giftware Customised Medallions
Web: gctrophies.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (07) 3804 7155
Sponsoring Touch Football in Australia since 1978
Credits
EDITORS: JULIAN BUCKMASTER,
LAUREN PRITCHARD, MICHAEL
GOSMAN
ART DIRECTOR: TIM LANE
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PRODUCED FOR TOUCH
FOOTBALL AUSTRALIA
COPYRIGHT © 2015 THE HARD WRAP
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COVER IMAGE: STEVE ROBERTS,
LOUISE WINCHESTER, KYLIE HILDER
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PROUDLY PRODUCED AND PRINTED IN AUSTRALIA
Through the ongoing support of the
Australian Sports Commission (ASC)
we have committed to programs
directly aligned with ensuring we grow
significantly in the school system as
well as improving our value proposition
with the membership. Both of these
key factors will be central to our future
success and will guide the overall
investment by the sport over the coming
years. It is absolutely imperative that
we convert participation in the school
system to the community ranks. Once
engaged we must retain people by
providing the best possible product to
our members. A simple formula that
must be achieved through a collective
strategy throughout our system.
We thank the ASC for their support
and commitment and look forward to
achieving our objectives in relation to
participation.
We also look forward to the
implementation of the Harvey Norman
School Series which builds on the
strong association and support we have
had since announcing our partnership. Harvey Norman sees the value in
ensuring our junior program is strong
and in particular the need for a strong
school engagement strategy. We will
be implementing various initiatives to
enhance the experiences already in
place throughout Australia and welcome
the continued support of this incredible
Touch Football partner.
On behalf of the Board of Touch Football
Australia I wish all players, coaches,
referees and administrators involved in
this event, and indeed the season ahead,
every success. We are sure there will
be fierce competition followed by the
interaction that continues to embody
our sport which is both social and
friendly. The junior system is extremely
important to us and we look forward
to enhancing this in the future with
numerous programs or events focussed
on providing participation opportunities.
Thank you for the ongoing support from
our valued sponsors and partners, in
particular Harvey Norman, BLK, Steeden,
Sportscover, Tablet PC and the Sunshine
Coast Council. The direct support
afforded to our sport is fantastic and we
look forward to working with you all in
the future. We also welcome Linebreak as a partner
of Touch Football Australia and look
forward to working with them over the
coming years. As noted above, TFA has
established a great relationship with
various partners that support us and the
overall development of our game. We
encourage all members of the Touch
Football community to show your support
to them at this event and into the future. Looking back at the goals set in 2011 we
are extremely proud of the report card
before us. Whether the goals were on
field, participation related, administrative,
profile or indeed financial we have
performed well. When we were ‘starting’
out on this four year cycle all of these
measures were aspirational and seemed
so distant. What the achievements
have shown is that with a clear vision
of what should happen in the game and
the motivation to achieve it, anything is
possible. I am sure as teams look to take
the field either this week or this season
you can draw your own analogy with the
goals that can be achieved through total
application.
I therefore thank the ‘Touch Football
team’ for supporting us on this path.
That is every one of you – from
the volunteer on the ground to the
Boardroom, the staff and the players,
coaches or referees. Every organisation
within the Touch Football family has
played an incredible role in ensuring we
can achieve success. Like any team on
the field not every member will be with
us in the future and we therefore thank all
those that have assisted us in the past.
You are all to be commended and we now
look forward to the achievements we can
work toward over the next five years. Whether it is this season or the next five
years ‘It All Starts Here’. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Hard
Wrap and the Harvey Norman National
Youth Championships this week.
Colm Maguire
Chief Executive Officer
Touch Football Australia
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While you’re here
Discover the Sunshine Coast
Everyone knows the Sunshine Coast has beautiful beaches where you can
relax, revitalise and refresh after a hard day of competition - but there is
so much more. Ancient volcanic peaks, peaceful rainforests, awe inspiring
waterfalls and breathtaking scenery - the natural beauty of the Sunshine
Coast hinterland will take your breath away.
Why not stay a little longer and explore it for yourself?
Share your adventures with
#visitsunshinecoast
visitsunshinecoast.com.au
MAYORAL MESSAGE
2015 NATIONAL YOUTH CHAM
PIONSHIPS
I would like to extend a very war
m welcome to Sunshine Coast
visitors arriving in
our beautiful region for the 2015
Harvey Norman National Youth
Touch Football
Championships.
We have 38 teams, representing
every state and territory in Austral
ia, as well as
four from New Zealand, with us
this week and we want to show
you the best time
while you are here.
We think you will enjoy competing
on our outstanding playing field
s at the Kawana
Sports Precinct, which has hosted
some of the biggest names in Aus
tralian sport.
We know Touch players are very
competitive and love your sport.
We also
believe you love your R&R too.
So, along with your friends, fam
ily and supporters
who may be accompanying you
to this event, make sure you give
yourself an
opportunity to look around the Sun
shine Coast and enjoy our pristine
beaches,
our magical, mysterious hinterla
nd, our entertainment venues and
clubs as well as
some of the finest cuisine and sho
pping in the nation.
We don’t score consistently high
points as a top-quality holiday des
tination for
nothing!
Meanwhile, may I wish you the
very best of
With best regards
CR MARK JAMIESON
MAYOR
luck over the next four days.
ArThoe und
Grounds
Our Aussie Girls
Shine in Women
in Sport Week
Move over Polo, the Royals
have a new favourite sport!
Prince Harry, among his many duties
and responsibilities, is also evidently a
Touch Football fan. While on an official
tour of New Zealand earlier in the year,
the Prince of Wales and keen sportsman
participated in a game of Touch Football
at the Linton Military Base. While not
managing to score a touchdown, Prince
Harry was still a hit with the Year Five
to Eight pupils showing good sleight
of hand and some silky skills; looking
replete in his army fatigues and boots!
Fresh from their recent World Cup victory, Australian Women’s Open players Danielle
Davis and Samantha Rodgers represented Touch Football Australia at the 2015 Women
in Sport dinner at Parliament House in August.
The players joined a high calibre
panel responding to questions on
their involvement in Touch Football
and their recent World Cup win in
front of a room full of politicians and
other prominent sportswomen.
The players also dropped into the TFA
office to say hi and reunite with staff
and their old friend, the World Cup!
Davis and Rodgers said they enjoyed
the opportunity to represent the
sport and help promote women in
sport.
“It was a good opportunity to meet
a few of the other athletes in other
sports, and it was a good promotion
for women in sport,” Davis said.
“I love the sport so much so it’s nice
to be able to promote and help the
young kids coming through and teach
them everything we know,” Rodgers
said.
The girls were particularly struck
with the knowledge and experiences
of Touch Football of prominent
pollies and guests in the room
including Senator Jacqui Lambie (far
right).
6
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
Touch Football
rallies support for
the Sh**box Rally
The Sh**itbox Rally is an epic journey
traversing large tracts of the country, raising
money annually for the Cancer Council. TFA
physiotherapist, Rob Hoy again admirably
drove not only the suspicious looking rig but a
significant amount of fundraising and awareness
in support of his great mate, Steve Cunningham
and son Angus.
With Steve not able to participate in the long
journey this year, it was Rob and fellow driver
Paul Stroud that piloted team ‘Angus and the
Beefcakes’; supporting Steve’s son Angus’ brave
battle with cancer, sadly for the second time.
This year’s route took participants from Canberra
to Townsville via the Birdsville Track. To make
the arduous journey even tougher, participating
cars are only allowed to be worth $1000, with all
funds raised from the event going to charity. This
was the second time Angus and the Beefcakes
have completed the epic journey and event,
raising almost $13,000.
Amazing efforts (and costumes); very well
done to Rob and Paul and the very best and all
strength to Steve, Angus and family from all the
Touch Football community.
Wets and Drys: Pollies play out Touch Football
Origin thriller in the rain on the eve of SOOII
It wasn’t just the Queensland Rugby League team that were State
of Origin victors in 2015, with the Queensland ‘Friends of Rugby
League’ Parliamentary team also taking the honours against their
southern rivals breaking a long drought in the annual event.
Following years of domination from New South Wales, Queensland
proved too strong in this year’s encounter at the Senate Oval,
Parliament House, winning in the big wet, 4-2.
NRL greats Michael Crocker and Nathan Hindmarsh joined the
Queensland and New South Wales teams respectively, while NRL
Chief Executive Officer, Dave Smith also had an auspicious and
impartial run – playing for both teams in his customary green and
gold gear!
Hard to pick a man of the match but the efforts of MPs, Joyce,
Brough, Albanese all worthy of note if not a Hansard mention.
Find Us on TFA Social Media
and join the conversation!
We’re sure you’ll
APPreciate this
There are plenty of ways you can keep-up-to date with all the latest
and greatest news from Touch Football Australia, including on
the TFA social media pages. We are very close to reaching 30,000
followers across our social media accounts, so if you haven’t already,
be sure to ‘like’, ‘follow’ and ‘share’ on the following pages:
Touch Football Australia now also has its
own mobile App! Download ‘TeamApp’ from
the Google Play or App Store, and search for
‘Touch Football Australia’.
Be sure to ‘like’, ‘follow’ and ‘share us’ on the following pages:
Facebook – www.facebook.com/touchfootballaustralia
Twitter - www.twitter.com/touchfootyaus
YouTube - www.youtube.com/touchfootballaus
Instagram – www.instagram.com/touchfootballaustralia
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
7
YOU’VE GOT TO
BE
IN
IT
TO WIN IT!
Australia’s Richest Touch Football Knockout set to
rock the Southern Great Barrier Reef region.
Want to play in the richest Touch Football
knockout in Australia and along with your
mates be in with the chance of winning a
share of the record $20,000 prize money
on offer? Keen for you and your family and
friends to see some of the best beaches and
tourism experiences the Southern Great
Barrier Reef region has to offer? Best you
quickly get your team together and register,
pack your bags, boots and sunscreen,
enroute to Bundaberg in November for the
inaugural 2015 Bundaberg Cup!
Touch Football Australia and Queensland
Touch Football, in conjunction with Tourism
and Events Queensland (TEQ) and
Bundaberg Regional Council, launched the
inaugural event in August; the two-day
bespoke knockout event to be held at the
Greg Duncan Touch Fields on Saturday, 14
November and Sunday, 15 November 2015.
Teams can enter in Men’s, Women’s and
Mixed divisions in either Open or Social
categories, with the Open division winners’
pocketing $4,500.
Entries for the event have already
been submitted from far and wide with
widespread interest across the country and
internationally: it’s not too late to enter your
team – head to www.qldtouch.com.au to
register and pay.
Queensland Touch Football Chief Executive
Officer, Jamie O’Connor and Bundaberg
Regional Council Mayor, Mal Forman, were
on hand to launch the event on Tuesday,
18 August at Bargara Beach and are
both looking forward to seeing some of
Australia’s best and social players alike,
compete for the prizemoney on offer.
“It was tremendous to launch the inaugural
Bundaberg Cup and really get moving with
the planning and event arrangements;
it’s been a long time in development and
we can’t wait to see it come to fruition,”
O’Connor said.
8
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
“We expect players from all across
Queensland, Australia and internationally
to compete; you’ll see the best of the best
on the shores of Bundaberg along with a
strong social vibe and format catering for all
abilities.
“Hopefully there’s some great outcomes
for Touch Football but also the Bundaberg
community at large.”
Closer to home, the Bundaberg community
is eagerly anticipating and preparing for this
bespoke event according to the Bundaberg
Mayor.
TEQ, Bundaberg North Burnett Tourism,
Queensland Touch Football and Bundaberg
Touch Association to help deliver a
fantastic regional sporting and economic
opportunity,” he said.
“The inception of the Bundaberg Cup
provides a significant addition to the wider
Touch Football events calendar.
“More importantly, it provides another
significant regional opportunity to boost the
profile and leverage the sport to increase
tourism and participation numbers to key
destinations, such as Bundaberg.”
TEQ Chief Executive, Leanne Coddington,
said Touch Football had a strong
connection and provides a great tourism
boost to the Bundaberg region.
“Events such as the Bundaberg Cup drive
tourism to Queensland’s destinations and
foster community pride,” Ms Coddington
said.
BARGARA BEACH
“For our Bundaberg region it’s really an
economic boost,” Bundaberg Mayor, Mal
Forman said.
“It will also drive the sport that is very well
supported here in our region.
“I believe it is going to be a great event which
will bring international players as well as
national players into our beautiful area –
particularly, Bundaberg and Bargara,” Cr
Forman said.
Touch Football Australia Chief Executive
Officer, Colm Maguire can’t wait to see the
inaugural event come to fruition.
“Touch Football is a quintessential
Australian sport and Bundaberg has one
of the strongest local associations in the
country. We are delighted to partner with
“I encourage players to start planning
their visit and extend their stay after
the event to enjoy the many visitor
experiences the Southern Great Barrier
Reef has to offer.”
For all accommodation options and offers
and more information on the many tourism
attractions to consider while in location, go
to www.bundabergregion.info or contact
Bundaberg North Burnett Tourism on 1300
722 099.
The Bundaberg Cup is supported by the
Queensland Government through TEQ in
partnership with the Bundaberg Regional
Council, Bundaberg and North Burnett
Tourism and promoted as part of the It’s
Live! in Queensland event calendar.
Stay tuned over coming months on event
updates and the 50-day countdown of things
to do and see across the Bundaberg North
Burnett region leading up to the Bundaberg
Cup in November.
14-15
NOVEMBER 2015
australias richest
touch football knock out
,
S
N
E
M
$20,000 WOMENS,
MIXEDNS
DIVISIO
14-15 November, 2015
Prize money:
The Greg Duncan Touch Fields, Bundaberg, QLD
bundabergcup.mytouchfooty.com
T O UCH
AUSTRALIA 2015
SKY FULL
OF STARS!
The 2015 Federation of International
Touch (FIT) World Cup had it all: four
seasons in five days for the record 93
teams from all four corners of the globe
– one truly memorable World Cup event!
As with almost all Touch World Cups, this
year’s event yet again demonstrated the
strong Trans-Tasman rivalry across almost
all divisions and the stark improvement
and emergence of a number of countries.
With over four years of planning and
preparations from a record 25 nations
involved, the 2015 Touch World Cup has
left an indelible impression and lasting
memory for all involved.
Among those nations hoisting their
flags proudly and nailing their colours
to the World Cup mast is South Africa
and Papua New Guinea particularly;
along with England and Singapore who
showed great strides in their international
development.
How fitting it was that the clearing skies,
beaming sunshine and loud and luminous
fireworks put an exclamation mark on the
sport’s showpiece event on the finals
day showcase at the C.Ex International
Stadium in Coffs Harbour.
Not commonly known in the final mix
According to the Secretary-General,
Federation of International Touch, Bill
Ker, the event was not only the largest on
record but up there with the very best.
10
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
Fast forward to the Opening Ceremony on
Wednesday, 29 April at Coffs Harbour’s
C.ex International Stadium was officially
underway to the roar of the crowd
greeting three skydivers majestically
landing on the main field with the
prized trophy in tow to officially open
the event.
On the field, Australia reaffirmed
itself as Touch Football’s world
benchmark and powerhouse; which
bears testament to the years of hard
work and sacrifices made by the
entire contingent.
“The opening and closing ceremonies
both showed the maturity in preparation
and purposeful attention to detail that in
my opinion far exceeded that of other
supposed more professional sports.
I must thank the participating nations
for the manner in which they accepted
the necessary changes during the
unbelievable weather conditions and
the professional manner in which TFA
handled this as well.
Continuing the incredible streak of now
eight unblemished Touch World Cup
campaigns over the event’s 27-year
history, Host Nation, Australia had another
very successful week; winning eight of
the nine titles on offer and re-writing the
history books once again.
The 2015 tournament began with an
official media launch in Sydney, with
the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and
Opera House providing a perfect sundrenched backdrop to a coterie of media,
dignitaries and players adorned in their
team uniforms from across the world.
Following a week of record rain in Sydney
the launch took place under a blue sky;
the lingering clouds at day’s end though
perhaps foreshadowing the influence the
weather gods would have over the event
in the week ahead.
The record turnout of nations and
teams provided a high watermark for
the event and a signal of just how
strong the growth of the game has
been internationally in recent years.
The Mixed Open teams from Chile
and Middle East Touch provided
extra significance; competing as
the first countries ever from South
America and the Middle East
regions, respectively.
“I cannot emphasise enough about the
emotions I felt at the opening of the
2015 World Cup, 25 nations in uniform
and cultural dress followed by 117
referees from around the world entered
the stadium led by the Federation’s
first Life Member, Mr Cary Thompson.
I immediately thought back to the first
World Cup in 1988 where FIT had five
nations in attendance and felt that the
display in front of me and thousands of
spectators showed the immense growth
in numbers and capabilities of this
wonderful sport,” Ker said.
“I have always stated that a World Cup
is like a window into the soul of the sport,
I thank the FIT Board Members for the
efforts in the years building up to this
wonderful World Cup and especially to
the TFA event team, led by Colm and
his executive group for their efforts in
producing the best World Cup that I have
ever witnessed. Considering this I feel that
the soul of the sport is in good health.”
progressing and putting their own stamp
on the event when the Cup lands in the
region for a second time (Japan, 2003).
of results is South Africa’s success in
finishing in the top four of the Men’s and
Women’s Open divisions, while PNG
claimed bronze medals in three divisions.
It is certainly evident that the biennial
European Championships is providing a
significant stepping stone along the path
of World Cup development and success
with each of the Home Nations and
France making great progress between World Cups.
As the axis next shifts to Asia for the 2019
World Cup (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia),
it will be interesting to see the likes
of Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong
Earlier in the tournament week, the
gala Australian Jersey Presentation
was conducted featuring all
Australian players, officials and
referees, representatives of the
NRL and key partners. Australian
Women’s Open coach Peter
Bell, Men’s Open player Dylan
Hennessey and Men’s 50’s
representative, Dean McManus
were named the Ron Hanson
medallists for the event and had the
honour of being Australian flag bearers at
the Opening Ceremony.
Long serving referee coach, Lou
Tompkins and Bill Ker were awarded Life
Members of Touch Football Australia
at the dinner, while Adam Foley, Giselle
Martin, Australian Men’s 50’s World Cup
representative, Greg Young and current
Australian Men’s Open coach, Tony Trad
were inducted into the Touch Football
Australia Hall of Fame.
See further in this 2015 TWC Wrap all the
results, the event in pictures and profiles
on two key stars!
RESULTS
MEN’S OPEN
WOMEN’S OPEN
Grand Final
MIXED OPEN
Grand Final
Grand Final
Australia 11 defeated New Zealand 2
Australia 8 defeated New Zealand 4
Australia 8 defeated New Zealand 5
Bronze Medal play-off:
Papua New Guinea 8 defeated South Africa 7
Bronze Medal play-off:
Singapore 7 defeated South Africa 2
Bronze Medal play-off:
Papua New Guinea 11 defeated England 8
Round games:
Australia 22 – Wales 0
Australia 18 – France 0
Australia 23 – Malaysia 0
Australia 22 – France 0
Australia 15 – Samoa 0
Australia 6 – Fiji 2
Australia 6 – New Zealand 2
Australia 6 – Papua New Guinea 1
Australia 12 – Japan 0
Australia 8 – South Africa 0
Round games:
Australia 27 – Scotland 0
Australia 24 – Japan 1
Australia 20 – United States of America 0
Australia 22 – England 0
Australia 13 – Japan 1
Australia 7 – South Africa 1
Australia 11 – Papua New Guinea 1
Australia 2 – New Zealand 4
Australia 9 – Singapore 1
Round games:
Australia 11 – Japan 3
Australia 21 – Italy 1
Australia 15 – Middle East Touch 0
Australia 13 – France 0
Australia 11 – Samoa 4
Australia 9 – Papua New Guinea 2
Australia 7 – New Zealand 5
Australia 9 – Japan 2
Australia 4 – Scotland 0
Australia 6 – England 0
WOMEN’S 27’S
Grand Final
MEN’S 30’S
Grand Final
MEN’S 35’S
MEN’S 40’S
Grand Final
Grand Final
Australia 6 def New Zealand 1
Australia 9 def Cook Islands 1
Australia 5 def by New Zealand 6
Australia 7 def New Zealand 6
Bronze Medal play-off:
England 5 defeated France 0
Bronze Medal play-off:
PNG 12 defeated USA 5
Bronze Medal play-off:
France 12 defeated PNG 6
Bronze Medal play-off:
England 4 defeated Wales 2
Round games:
Australia 8 – New Zealand 4
Australia 16 – Scotland 0
Australia 10 – England 1
Australia 16 – France 1
Australia 13 – France 0
Round games:
Australia 16 – Cook Islands 2
Australia 15 – Papua New Guinea 3
Australia 17 – USA 0
Australia 14 – Japan 0
Australia 14 – England 0
Australia 18 – Fiji 0
Australia 16 – PNG 0
Round games:
Australia 19 – Fiji 2
Australia 16 – Papua New Guinea 1
Australia 4 – New Zealand 9
Australia 10 – France 3
Australia 6 – Japan 0
Australia 9 – France 2
Round games:
Australia 20 – Singapore 0
Australia 10 – Japan 3
Australia 15 – Wales 2
Australia 5 – New Zealand 2
Australia 9 – Niue 0
Australia 14 – Fiji 1
Australia 7 – USA 1
Australia 6 – England 0
MEN’S 50’S
SENIOR MIXED
Grand Final
Grand Final
Australia 7 defeated Italy 2
Australia 11 def New Zealand 7
Bronze Medal play-off:
Ireland 12 defeated Japan 3
Bronze Medal play-off:
England 11 def Netherlands 3
Round games:
Australia 17 – Japan 0
Australia 21 – Niue 1
Australia 12 – Ireland 0
Australia 5 – Italy 2
Australia 21 – Japan 0
Round games:
Australia 21 – Singapore 0
Australia 18 – Niue 1
Australia 12 – England 3
Australia 6 – New Zealand 7
Australia 10 – Netherlands 2
Australia 14 – England 1
Australia 16 – PNG 0
Following the closing ceremony of the 2015 Touch World
Cup, the Australian contingent gathered to present awards
recognising the team’s performances at the event. Men’s Open
Player’s Player – Stuart Brierty
Coaches Award – Stuart Brierty
Men’s 35’s
Player’s Player – Drew Davies
Coaches Award – Michael Irvine
Women’s Open
Player’s Player – Peta Rogerson
Coaches Award – Hannah Dyball
Men’s 40’s
Player’s Player – Gerard O’Keeffe
Coaches Award – Troy Morgan
Mixed Open
Player’s Player – Daniel Barton
Coaches Award – Cameron Nicholls
Men’s 50’s
Player’s Player – Dave Kafoa
Coaches Award – Mark Hearnden
Women’s 27’s
Player’s Player – Kirstie Jenkins Coaches Award – Kelly Goodwin
Senior Mixed
Player’s Player – Christian Frost Coaches Award – Kirstie Wakely
Men’s 30’s
Player’s Player – Dave Zanette Coaches Award – Steve Takchi
Phil Smith Medal – Tara Steel
(Touch Football Australia)
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
11
THE 2015
TOUCH
WORLD
CUP ctures
in Pi
What better way to relive some of our
favourite moments of the 2015 Touch
World Cup then through photos!
The Hard Wrap takes a trip down
memory lane to remember the biggest
Touch World Cup yet!
It was a picturesque Sydney day to launch the Touch
World Cup
in Australia in the lead up to the event. Representativ
es from
Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England
and Italy were on
hand to help launch the event near the iconic Sydne
y Opera House.
The teams made plenty of
new friends in the Coffs
Harbour community in the
lead up to the event.
!
h in Coffs Harbour
h World Cup launc
uc
To
the
me
ca
xt
Ne
The 2015 Touch World Cup
commenced in impressive style,
with three skydivers landing on
Field One to kick off the event.
Malaysia’s Men’s Open Manager, Colin Kay
was the lucky Touch World Cup Opening
Ceremony competition winner, receiving
the chance to skydive into the Opening
Ceremony, an experience he’ll never forget!
12
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
Power Productions were there on day
one to help Live Stream all the Field
One games for the global audience.
Plenty of friendships
were made.
Then
the
rain
came!
A whole lot of fun was had!
Finals day was full of
entertainment.
And it kept coming.
After a lot of rain, Friday’s games were
cancelled. The Touch World Cup media
team decided to get creative.
We were joined on finals day
by Rugby League identities
Andrew Voss and John
Gibbs, who commentated
the Touch World Cup finals.
Shannon Noll performed for the crowd.
There was a proposal on
Field One…
And she said yes!
ing
d on the field, claim
The Aussies impresse
ming
lai
rec
er,
off
on
les
eight of the nine tit
e.
p for the eighth tim
the Touch World Cu
And the firewor
event in style. ks finished off the
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
13
HANNAH
DYBALL
While most people her age have
spent the year focusing on Year 12
studies, Australian Women’s Open
player, Hannah Dyball has been busy
juggling school and Touch Football
commitments.
At just 17 years of age, Dyball has achieved
more than a lot of players in the sport.
Dyball is a World Cup, State of Origin
and Elite Eight champion, as well as
having claimed several Youth titles from
Australian level through to Junior State
Cup wins along the way.
Dyball was part of the 2015 Australian
Women’s World Cup winning team in
May, making her Open’s debut at the
event. She impressed at the tournament,
receiving the Coaches Award at the
Australian Awards ceremony following
the event.
“The World Cup experience for me was
amazing not just for the involvement of it,
but also being able to make my Women’s
Open debut at such a remarkable event,”
Dyball said.
SCOTT
PRINCE
This time 10 years ago, Scott
Prince was on his way to
winning a NRL Premiership and
Clive Churchill Medal with the
Wests Tigers, as well as being
selected in his first Kangaroos
Squad.
Fast forward to 2015 and
Prince has recently become a
dual international, representing
Australia in the Men’s 30’s
division at the 2015 Federation of
International Touch World Cup.
After 15 seasons in the NRL,
Prince has spent the last 12 months
playing in every Touch Football
competition he could and in May he
added another achievement to his
impressive sporting career, a Touch
World Cup title.
Prince has been a popular inclusion
to the Touch Football community,
participating in many events in both New
South Wales and Queensland over the
past year.
We caught up with Scott Prince to
hear about his transition back to Touch
Football and how it feels to be a World
Cup champion.
Congratulations on a pretty amazing
14
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
“At first I was a little worried at how I
would handle it but the support and
encouragement from the girls, coaches
and my family
made it all the
more easier
and enjoyable.
Playing against
countries such
as Japan, South
Africa and PNG
was really cool
along with being
able to interact
with nations I
wouldn’t have
thought to visit.”
In a busy first
half of the year
that has seen
her play in a
Youth Trans
Tasman Series,
Junior State
Cup, Elite Eight
Series and
World Cup at
the elite level,
it’s hard to
believe how she
has fit it all in.
But she is taking it all in her stride.
“The past few years in regards to my
sport have been quite overwhelming
year so far
on the Touch
Football field,
what has been
your favourite
memory so far? I’ve been pretty
fortunate since
returning to
Touch Football
to have played
in some
unbelievable
teams but my
favourite memory
would have to
be representing
Australia at the
recent World Cup
with some of the
legends of Touch
Football. How did you find the World Cup
experience?
Awesome. Not only did we share some
special moments within our team but the
opportunity to mix it up with the world’s
best and incorporate both swimming and
Touch Footy was certainly a first - Field
16 versus Fiji - sharing snorkels!
How did you find the transition from
Rugby League back to Touch Football
post retirement?
It was difficult considering the last time
I played it was seven versus seven
(players). Defence and attacking policies
and structures; but most of all is the up
and sometimes I look back and wonder
how I have managed to get through it all.
However I am very proud and honoured
to have been able to achieve
everything that I have. I’m
also very grateful to have
been given the opportunity to
achieve this at such a young
age,” Dyball said.
There is one more thing
that she’d love to achieve
in 2015 – a National Youth
Championships title.
Dyball missed the 2014
National Youth Championships
due to State of Origin
Women’s Open commitments,
but was part of the New
South Wales Combined High
Schools team that came a
close second in both 2012
and 2013. She is hopeful of
helping to guide her team to
back-to-back titles in 2015.
“I’m stoked to be back in the
NSWCHS team, especially
for my last ever school
tournament. We’ve got a
great bunch a girls with
heaps of talent across the park so being
able to win nationals with them would be
an amazing achievement and one that I
would hold in high regard.”
and back movements - legs needed to
be Touch Footy conditioned. Did you ever expect to achieve what
you have in such a short time? No not at all. I turned up at Palm Beach
to have a run socially and then after
that first game, it brought back fond
memories when I played as a youngster
(pre-League career). Next thing I know,
I’m signed up to every Touch comp on
the coast and in Brisbane, watching
YouTube, wanting to learn more and
improve my game. A challenge that I
missed after retiring from Rugby League. Your daughters are also proving to be
talented Touch Footballers, how are
they enjoying it?
They are really enjoying the game of
Touch Footy. It provides so much for
them in regards to fitness, friends, proud
moments for us as parents and learning
lessons of life. To improve and be at your
best, you have to work hard and to deal
with the disappointment of losing.
You seem to be popping up at Touch
Football events everywhere, how
much are you enjoying being part of
the Touch Football community?
It’s a game I loved as a kid growing up
in the dusty mining town of Mount Isa,
which provided me with the skills to
pursue a League career. To be back, I
feel very grateful, not only playing but
also helping to develop the young ones
to be the best they can be. GOOD LUCK TO ALL TEAMS
COMPETING IN THE
NATIONAL YOUTH
CHAMPIONSHIPS
GO #BEYONDLIMITSKNOWN
YOUR TEAM CAN LOOK LIKE A PRO TEAM
For team wear enquiries contact:
[email protected]
BLKSPORT.COM
OFFICIAL APPAREL
PARTNER OF TOUCH
FOOTBALL AUSTRALIA
NRL / TFA ALLIANCE UPDATE
The NRL and TFA alliance has continued to strengthen and benefit both parties as the
partnership recently celebrated its second anniversary.
Join us as The Hard Wrap recaps recent developments from across the country.
IT ALL STARTS HERE!
Registrations into new Touch Football
Season competitions now open!
With Spring upon us, Touch Football
players and teams across the country
are getting ready to register for new
season competitions.
and communities with an extensive
national footprint,” Maguire said.
“So, the message is to get out and
register with your friends and teammates
into new season competitions conducted
Edrick Lee is a familiar face in
Touch Football, having represented
Queensland Secondary Schools Touch
and the Brisbane City Cobras in
National Youth Championships events in
the past.
Registration and location information
on various competitions can be found
at www.PlayNRL.com and by visiting
the various state Touch Football
websites via the TFA website.
Touch Football Australia CEO Colm
Maguire said that the ‘It All Starts Here’
campaign aims to encourage juniors
and seniors along with community
groups and other sports to dust off
their boots and participate in the many
fun, social and inclusive Touch Football
competitions and programs on offer in
2015-16.
“I started playing Touch when I was six
years old in Brisbane so it’s always been
in the family. My old man is a referee, so
I’ve always been around Touch and really
enjoy it.
across the country; for all registration
and contact information go to PlayNRL.
com and state Touch Football websites
HOLDEN MONSTER RAFFLE
Touch Football affiliates across New
South Wales, Australian Capital
Territory, Queensland, Victoria and
Tasmania had the opportunity to again
participate in and benefit from the
Holden Monster Raffle this year.
OUR WATCH
The NRL was one of four National
Sporting Organisations to receive grants
of $250,000 each under the Our Watch
Sports Engagement program, funded
through the Australian Government’s
Sports Grant Bank. The program
provides $1 million in grant funding
to National Sporting Organisations to
deliver programs and promotions
16
SEPTEMBER 2015
The key feature of the program
is that ticket buyers decide
which Touch Football association
benefits from their purchase with the full
$5 ticket value staying at the affiliate.
Stay tuned to the 2015 results to be
announced following the ticket draw at
Rugby League Central at 10.00am on
towards the prevention of violence
against women and children.
Touch Football Australia (TFA) will
be partnering with the National
Rugby League (NRL) to eliminate
violence against women and children
in Australian society as part of the
national Our Watch program.
ISSUE 16
Raiders’ players Jack Wighton, Sisi
Waqa, Edrick Lee and Josh Papalii were
on hand to help launch the campaign,
with all players full of praise for the sport
of Touch Football and its connections to
Rugby League.
“It is a great social event, it’s great for
fitness, all ages can play it, as well as
boys and girls, it’s a great family event
also,” Wighton said.
The ‘It All Starts Here’ campaign
was launched in late August in
conjunction with the Silent Sports
Challenge, with the Canberra Raiders
helping launch the campaign.
“Touch Football is a very inclusive, diverse
and social sport; catering for both genders,
a wide variety of ages, abilities
and social media channels,” he said.
TFA CEO, Colm Maguire said the
organisation is looking forward to
working in collaboration through its
partnership with the NRL to deliver
programs and educational activities as
well as build capacity and expertise to
prevent violence against women and
their children.
“The sport of Touch Football provides a
unique environment where both genders
can participate in sport on the same
playing field at the same time,” he said.
“This provides an environment that
exposes and promotes equality as
“I’ve watched a few of the elite games
like the State of Origin and (Trans
Tasman) Tests online so it’s definitely an
exciting game. You also get to meet a lot
of people in the area so that’s another
benefit as well,” Lee said.
18 September, 2015, with respective
prize winners published in The Australian
newspaper on 25 September, 2015.
There are over $125,000 worth of prizes
to be won including a Holden Colorado
and a Holden Cruze, with all funds raised
going back to grassroots Rugby League
clubs and Touch Football associations.
well as fair, inclusive and respectful
behaviours and attitudes both on and off
the playing field.
“The work we propose to conduct
through the grant funding with the
NRL will assist our respective sporting
codes to more effectively embed gender
equality and respectful relationships
into and across our networks and
communities.”
TFA has appointed Australian Men’s
Open coach, Tony Trad as Touch
Football’s Ambassador for the program.
More information on the work of Our
Watch and the Sports Engagement
Program can be found on
www.ourwatch.org.au.
TOUCH FOOTBALL
ON THE BIG STAGE:
EXHIBITION GAMES
ON SHOW ACROSS
THE COUNTRY
Round 10 of the NRL season saw the
annual Women in League celebrations
and activities. The round highlights
the increasing participation of females
in sport with participation numbers
continuing to grow and recognition of the
highly valued contributions of females
across the industry.
In Victoria during
the half-time break
of the Melbourne
Storm versus
South Sydney
Rabbitohs game,
a group of Touch
Football Victoria’s
female players
got a chance to
showcase their
skills. In Touch
Football’s version
of a city versus
country rivalry,
Metro took on
Western Affiliates as
part of supporting
Women in League
round. Meanwhile in
the ACT, six female
teams played during intervals of the
Canberra Raiders vs St George Illawarra
match day.
There have also been
several game day
activations at most NRL
clubs, including the
Canberra Raiders, Cronulla
Sharks, Melbourne
Storm, Brisbane Broncos,
Wests Tigers, Gold Coast
Titans and South Sydney
Rabbitohs along with
a Touch Football first:
game day activation and
promotion at State of
Origin Game Two at the
MCG, Melbourne, midyear.
Stay tuned to the TFA
social media channels and
website for regular updates
at NRL clubs near you!
Check out the integration
between Touch Football
Australia and the NRL in the
past couple of months!
ELLENBROOK
RABBITOHS RUGBY
LEAGUE CLUB
There have been several of examples
of Rugby League and Touch Football
clubs working together since the
partnership announcement, which is
great to see!
The Ellenbrook Rabbitohs Rugby
League Club was established in
late 2014 and in the first year have
over 500 registered players across
the two sports, including over 330
players in the Summer Touch Football
competition.
GO HARVEY GO
PACKS GO NATIONAL
Each affiliate across the country
received a Go Harvey Go affiliate pack
in recent months in time for Summer
competitions, courtesy of Touch
Football Australia’s partnership with
Harvey Norman and the NRL.
The packs include footballs,
equipment and promotional resources
featuring Harvey Norman NRL
Touch Football branding. This was
a significant logistical exercise and
provides for the sport for the first
time, a consistent look and feel to
competitions with plans underway for
next year’s packs’ components and
delivery schedule.
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
17
Hundreds of people
across the country got
to experience a different
type of Touch Football in
late August, taking part
in the 2015 Silent Sports
Challenge as part of Hearing
Awareness Week.
The Silent Sports Challenge
involves modified games
of Touch Football where all
participants are required to
wear earplugs and aren’t
permitted to talk during play,
while referees use a flag to
communicate decisions.
The Gold Coast Titans kicked
off Hearing Awareness Week,
SILENT SPORTS
CHALLENGE
Hearing Awaren
rd
ess Week 23
- 29th August
SHHH!
» Gold Coast
» Adelaide
» Canberra
» Perth
» Melbourne
As part of heari
to participate ng awareness week, we
are giving you
in a friendly
and fun game
the opportunity
of touch footb
All participants
all.
experience of will be required to wear
ear
deaf/hard of
hearing athlet plugs to simulate the
es.
touchfootball.co
m.au
#silentsportsch
allenge
with a silent Touch Football game being played
at half-time of their match against the Canberra Raiders.
Back in Canberra, the Raiders were on hand to participate in Touch
Football ACT’s Silent Sports Challenge at Reconciliation Park, with
schools from across the ACT as well as the ACT Deaf Touch Football
team taking part in the day.
The Raiders were also in location to help launch the ‘It All Starts Here’
campaign, promoting the upcoming summer season of Touch Football.
On the other side of Australia, Touch Football WA held its Silent Sports
Challenge at Birdwood
Square, while Gosch’s
Paddock in Victoria
hosted Touch Football
Victoria’s Silent Sports
Challenge in the lead up
to the Melbourne Storm
versus North Queensland
Cowboys game.
Head to the Touch Football
Australia Facebook page to
view photos from the 2015
Silent Sports Challenge
– www.facebook.com/
touchfootballaustralia.
18
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
Touch Football
Australia (TFA) is
thrilled to partner with
the Australian Sports
Commission (ASC) to
build on the linkages
that it has with
Australian schools.
In May 2014, the Australian Government announced that it would
be providing $100 million for the Sporting Schools Program. The
aim of the Sporting Schools Program is to provide the opportunity
for schools to run sporting activities and help get students more
physically active.
The Sporting Schools Program is open to all of the 5,000 plus
primary schools across Australia. The program aims to have
sporting programs delivered to more than 850,000 children in the
school yard before, during and after school with the support of
National Sporting Organisations.
The Sporting Schools Program officially commenced in July with
sporting programs commencing in Term Three. Touch Football
is currently one the most requested programs with close to 300
programs requested for Terms Three and Four in 2015. Schools can access anywhere from $1,300 to $3,100 per term for
three out of four terms, depending on the size and demographic of
the school.
The program follows on from the ASC’s Active After School
Communities (AASC) program which ran for 10 years, commencing
in 2005 and concluding on 31 December, 2014.
For more information regarding the Sporting Schools Program
please visit www.sportingschools.gov.au or contact TFA via
[email protected]
TFATOUCHPOINTS
It’s certainly been a busy and productive year in the
Touch Football Australia office thus far, with several
events, exciting announcements and initiatives taking
centre stage. Notwithstanding a World Cup, National
Touch League, All Stars and Youth Trans Tasman events,
we recap some of the more prominent announcements
and highlights of recent times.
Hagarty appointed TFA Chair
TFA Hall of Fame member and Queensland Women’s 20’s
coach, Renee Murphy (pictured below) also found the
Workshop beneficial.
“It was an excellent learning environment; I do think having all
women [participating] there is a more relaxed environment for
the less experienced to be more vocal and interactive.
“I also enjoyed how we could identify with an actual team and
see direct results over time with the Aussie Women’s team
when Peter [Bell] was presenting.”
TFA Board Member, Anita Hagarty recently assumed the role of
Chair, following the decision of Mike Rush to step down due to
family and work commitments.
Ms Hagarty has had a long involvement in Touch Football, as a
player, coach and administrator and becomes the first female
Chair of the organisation. Fresh from chairing her first TFA
Board meeting in Sydney recently, Hagarty told The Hard Wrap
that she is looking forward to the role.
“I am looking forward to building on the fantastic work of the
Board and staff as well as building strong relationships with all
of our partners, members and fellow Board members in order
to progress the sport forward,” she said. TFA Welcomes Linebreak to
the team
TFA announced in
July a new partnership
with international
compression brand,
Linebreak. Founded in 2002,
Linebreak has forged
a reputation of high quality products and being the trusted
partner of professional and amateur athletes, across multiple
sports codes and disciplines in many countries.
Women’s Leadership Elite
Coach Workshop a success
Female coaches from across Australia took part in a Women’s
Leadership Elite Coach Workshop at Brisbane in August.
Each state and territory in Australia was represented at the
workshop; made possible following TFA’s receipt of a Women’s
Leadership Grant from the Australian Sports Commission.
The weekend included a full day Leadership workshop with
Athlete Assessment’s Bo Hanson, as well as five Touch Football
specific modules from the new Elite Coach Course presented
by Australian Women’s Open coach Peter Bell and former
Australian Women’s Open coach, Kerry Norman.
Australian Women’s 27’s World Cup representative and 2015
ACT Women’s T League Assistant Coach, Melinda Ingram said
she enjoyed the opportunity.
“I really enjoyed being involved in the pilot program – especially
because it was a women’s leadership course,” she said.
“I felt like I was in a safe environment where there was no
judgement and everybody’s skills and knowledge were valued,”
Ingram said.
“The course has given me the confidence to complete my
accreditation and get involved in more coaching.”
20
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
“Having worked closely with the team at TFA, and
understanding the requirements for effective and reliable
compression products, we were confident we would could
meet and exceed expectations,” Linebreak owner/operators,
Roger Hawke and Wilf Robinson said.
“We are really thrilled to be appointed the official compression
partner to TFA,” he said.
“TFA is an amazing organisation with incredible passion and
drive, and a membership that would rival any code.
“We can’t wait to be involved with the association on many
levels of activity.”
TFA Chief Executive Officer, Colm Maguire said he looks
forward to seeing the partnership grow.
“We are excited to announce our alignment with Linebreak.
We are impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism
of the team and the product has an outstanding reputation
internationally.
“TFA is incredibly proud to be one of the first to announce this
partnership in Australia and we look forward to assisting the
expansion through our network,” Maguire said.
For more information on Linebreak or to purchase
compression gear, please visit linebreak.com.au. Stay tuned
to touchfootball.com.au for special offers. Member Benefits:
information and purchasing
power to the people
application that associations, clubs and teams can use to
create their own apps and improve the way they communicate
with their members.
To create a free app for your association, club or team today,
visit the Team App website www.teamapp.com.
TFA entered into a
landmark partnership
with SportsPass in 2015;
a dedicated member
benefits program for
Australian sporting
associations that adds
value to club memberships, while also providing a new funding
source for Australian sports through the sale of Supporter
Cards.
Every Touch Football player will receive a card, with plenty of
benefits at franchises across Australia to enjoy.
Touch Football Australia also recently
announced its official smartphone
application partner, Team App.
Team App is a free, almost fully
customisable, quick and easy smartphone
GNSA192-5 Touch Ad_Layout 1 26/08/15 1:11 PM Page 1
Be sure to search for ‘Touch Football Australia’ and the
‘National Youth Championships’ to keep up-to-date with all of
the latest news and information!
TFA also formed a
vital partnership with
CareMonkey in recent
months as its official health
and safety communication
platform partner.
CareMonkey is a quick and easy risk management
communication platform that associations, clubs and teams
can use to create their own electronic health and safety records
and improve the way they gain permissions, collect data and
communicate with their own members.
For more information or to keep up-to-date with all of the
latest news and member benefits from Touch Football
Australia, be sure to visit www.touchfootball.com.au.
Steeden NRL
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THE BELL TOLLS
It’s the end of an era for one of Australia’s best coaches as Peter Bell
calls time on his elite coaching and teaching career.
Australian Women’s Open coach, Peter Bell won his fourth
World Cup title in 2015, going out on a high following his return
to the role in 2012.
The 2015 win adds to his 1995, 1999 and 2003 World Cup
titles, with an incredible winning record, having only lost four
games at the Australian level in his 20 year career.
2015 will also mark the end of his teaching career, having spent
‘a lot of time in the sun’ in his 35 years of teaching.
A lot has changed in the past 20 years since Bell started
coaching at an Australian level and he says that knowing he
would retire after the 2015 event made it all the more special.
“It took me back to my first World Cup, because you know it’s
your last and it means something to you from that view, when
you know it’s the end of something it becomes more real to
you,” he recalled upon his recent retirement.
“I did remember a lot about the first one and compared things
from the first to the last; it was an interesting comparison, how
things and times have changed.
“The weight of expectation in a home World Cup is pretty big,
plus the fact that we had a number of things over the cycle
that increased the pressure, even in the World Cup losing that
round game, which wasn’t huge for me but it was a bit of a
wobble for everyone else.
“There was a big weight off my shoulders when you know it’s
finished and everything you’ve worked for has been achieved
and you can sit back and take it all in.
“I think the biggest change would be the professionalism of the
sport, not just the athletes, but the way we do things.
“I remember in Hawaii (1995) we were very much a team on our
own in a World Cup campaign even though we had Senior’s,
Men’s and Mixed; we were very much out on our own.
“Now our whole campaign is very much geared up to the whole
team effort, the whole team being every Australian team, particularly
the Men’s, Women’s and Mixed are one big family now.
“You feel like you are part of what the Men are doing and rely
on learning things from the Men and you are part of the Mixed;
the uniqueness of the Mixed is that they provide athletes
for us as well and we have to work together to win all those
divisions.”
After taking a break from coaching at an Australian
level following the 2003 World Cup, Bell then took
over the reins following Kerry Norman’s retirement
post the 2011 World Cup.
“I think the first time I went out, it wasn’t like a
retirement it was more that I had a young family and
I wanted to devote some time to them.
“I really didn’t have it out of my system, I just
felt like I had to go one more time. I think
I’ve done that now, it’s out of my system
and I’m comfortable with where I’m at.
“I think I’ve left it in a good space in terms
of players like Kimmy Sue See and
Hannah Dyball, having also worked with
Louise Winchester,” he said.
“I was her coach when she first
came into the Australian team in
2001; reflection is always ongoing
but I was very happy with what I’ve
achieved.”
22
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
Among the highlights of his teaching career includes helping
to introduce the Queensland All Schools event in 1983, which
started 32 years ago with 18 teams, and this year will see over
400 teams compete.
“All Schools is the cherry on top of the cake for me, it’s the
pinnacle.
“It probably summarises the whole evolution of Touch as a
sport for me because we started a committee as a group of
young Phys Ed teachers who played a bit of Touch Footy
themselves.
“We said if we just get some kids playing then we got our own
teams and the next thing we knew we were playing a few other
schools, then we had a competition and a committee and an
association, all of that lead to the very first All Schools in 1983.
“I’ve been to every All Schools since, right through to now
where I teach students whose parents played at All Schools.”
Bell has fond memories of his time as Australian coach and
what he has achieved in his time involved.
“There is nothing better than representing your country, the
camaraderie and everyone together in their green and gold, it’s
those special moments, particularly when you win, you’ll take
that with you to the grave.
“Touch doesn’t owe us anything, it’s been something that
we’ve been repaid 10-fold.
“I can look back on all of the memories that I have but you do
remember all of the good times that you’ve had and part of it is
certainly what you’ve been able to achieve and like All Schools,
people take for granted that these things were there but they
never used to be when I came through.”
It might not be the last time we see a Bell in Australian colours,
with his children showing that they’ve inherited the family’s
Touch Football prowess.
“Kaelan is the oldest and he played in the Sunny Coast 12’s
and is a shadow in the Queensland 12’s; that was his very first
Touch tournament (the QLD Junior State Championships).
“Both the boys play Rugby League and Rhiannon plays netball
as well.
“It’s possible, they’ve got the genes, their mum was a good
player!”
Touch Football Australia CEO, Colm Maguire praised Bell for
his contribution to the game.
“On behalf of not only Touch Football Australia but
the entire sport we wish to formally thank Peter for his
contribution to the game in Queensland.
“The school system is the nursery from which all
talent emerges and to say that Peter has been
the custodian of this process would be a huge
understatement. “Peter’s achievements in the game are
phenomenal and this often is reflected upon at
an Elite level; however, his lasting contribution
to participation within the school system is
simply staggering,” Maguire said.
“On behalf of an extremely grateful sport
we thank Peter for all that he has done
within the school system and will celebrate
the legacy he leaves behind for years to
come.”
Maruta
shoots for
the sky!
When Kai Maruta duty refereed for his sister’s Touch
Football team at the age of 12, little did he think he would
go on to achieve so much in the sport.
Fast forward a decade and Maruta is one of the best young
referees in the country.
The 23-year-old received his Level 6 badge at the 2015
National Touch League, acknowledging this milestone as his
greatest achievement in the sport to date.
He is grateful for the help of a few key people
and programs that have helped him
get as far as he has in his fledgling
refereeing career.
“Greg Eggins has been one
of my biggest influences for
actually getting me into
refereeing and for the help
and guidance that he has
given me throughout my
refereeing career,” Maruta
said
“Specifically by initially
moving from refereeing
junior Touch Football
into the Senior’s
division and then onto
my first representative
tournament.
“He was also the main
influence in me moving away
from playing Touch towards
fulltime refereeing,” he added.
“Another large influence on my
development through badge levels
would have to be Chris Harapa and NSW
Touch for their commitment to the NSW
Talented Referees Youth Squad (TRYS),” he said.
“I fully believe that the TRYS program has helped me
enormously moving from a Level 2 into a Level 4 and then
progressing to my Level 6 badge.”
With a nod to the past and emboldened by his top level
qualification in the referee ranks, Maruta is looking forward to
24
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
the 2015 National Youth Championships; an event he has fond
memories of in recent years.
He returns this year as one of the more experienced referees
at the event and looks forward to helping the next group of up
and coming referees.
“I like that fact that I can meet new interstate and international
referees as well as catching up with the referees that I have
previously met through national tournaments,”
he said.
“I enjoy refereeing with developing
referees, as this is the
tournament where I could
develop over the years by
refereeing with higher
badge level referees.”
Maruta’s next big goal
is to referee at the
international level,
while he still enjoys
getting back to
where it all started.
“I still play and
referee at the local
park level and try
to pass on as much
knowledge as I can
onto our referees.
At the NSW level I
try to attend as many
tournaments as I can
and have been fortunate
enough to be a team leader
at a number of them.”
His advice for anyone thinking of
getting involved in refereeing?
“Refereeing is a great way to keep fit and meet
new friends - you may even earn a bit of pocket money at the
park comp.
“It also teaches you valuable life skills such as communication
and confidence; an added bonus is that I have travelled to
places that I never thought I would go to referee a game of
Touch Football.”
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www.touchfootball
© 2015 Touch Football Australia Inc PO Box 9078 Deakin ACT 2600 ABN 55 090 088 207 A 1092
Check out some of the action and initiatives that caught our eye
and the lens across the Touch Football traps in recent months/
weeks. Send in to TFA your favourite shots from across the
park to potentially be published in The Hard Wrap, online, or
post via Instagram to share the love and capture the spirit of
our great sport!
TOUCH IN THE SQUARE:
METRO MAGIC:
The innovative ‘Touch in the Square’ competition in
conjunction with TFSA and Adelaide City Council
and SA Life. Be in it! got underway earlier this
month played at dusk on Tuesday evenings through
September - October. What a great venue in the heart
of the city of churches and novel concept to attract
city workers and passers-by to take up the sport!
The New South Wales Junior Regionals were again hotly contested
through the year, this time with Penrith as the hosts. While the
Sydney Scorpions were again named champion region, the Mets
followed closely in second place ahead of the Hunter Western
Hornets. Gotta love the excitement of the Mets boy’s faces after this
win and their number one fan in the background (far right)!
TRUE BLUE:
The 2015 NSW Touch
Association Referees Awards
Night was held earlier this year
with David Baggio awarded
the Ian Matthew Medal as
the leading New South Wales
referee for 2014. The Medal
is named after Touch Football
Australia life member Ian
Matthew (above), who was also recognised for 30 years of
service in the sport. In a significant first, Jonathon Powyer
(pictured, right), was awarded a Level 4 referee status, making
him the first ever state graded deaf referee in New South Wales!
EVERYBODY CUT FOOTLOOSE!
We loved this ‘Thrill of the chase’ shot from the
Tasmania State Cup held earlier in the year.
MAROONS SPIRIT ON
SHOW:
Send us your pics!
Be sure to tag us on
social media when you
take photos during the
event, we’d love to
see them!
26
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
Stay tuned to the TFA
social media pages
during event week for
opportunities to win
prizes!
A record 204 teams
competed in the 2015
Queensland Junior
State Cup in Hervey
Bay in July. Gold Coast
Touch Association won
the Eggers/Mowles
Affiliate Championship,
with Gladstone winning
the Medium Affiliate
Championship and Gympie
claiming the Small Affiliate
Championship.
We loved this display of
sportsmanship on show in
the heat of the battle between Rockhampton and Redlands!
SIDELINE EYE:
SUN SETS IN THE WEST:
Nearly 60 girls took part in the ‘Experience Touch’ session
through the year in Melbourne, with a few World Cup winners on
hand to help introduce them to the sport – do you get a sense of
strong Storm support in the southern capital by chance?
The Touch Football WA Junior State Championships were
played earlier in the year, with divisions ranging from
Under 10’s up to Under 18’s. After seeing photos like this,
Western Australia is obviously not plagued with the wet
weather curse that Touch Football on the east coast has
experienced this year! INSET – hats off to all the Junior kids
who participated in the event!
RECOGNISE:
Touch Football ACT hosted the very successful
13th Annual NAIDOC Carnival in July, with 32
teams participating in the event. Defence (pictured
below) were 5-3 winners over the Australian Sports
Commission in the grand final, while Canberra Raiders’
Tevita Pangai and Jeff Lynch were also in attendance.
You can read more about the Touch Football ACT-Canberra
Raiders partnership in the ‘NRL Touch Football’ section of The
Hard Wrap or go to the TFACT website for more information on
the great work and achievements of this partnership.
TOUCH FOR HEART:
The Touch 4 Heart competition in the Northern Territory was
again a great success in 2015. The finals were played recently
in Darwin, with NT Minister for Sport and Recreation, Mr
Garry Higgins, as well as members of the Parramatta Eels
in attendance for the finals day in the lead-up to their NRL
premiership fixture against Penrith. Mixtures took out the main
final this year defeating Holy Walkamolies 5 – 2.
SEPTEMBER 2015
ISSUE 16
27
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