Sherborne Touch was started in September 2011 by Sherborne RFC and Sherborne Sports Centre as a social and fitness activity. It has grown from it’s initial six week trial to a year round, twice weekly event.

We play on the Sherborne Boys School AstroTurf, or on the grass next to it, during the summer months. This is located just off Ottery Lane (A352) in Sherborne. The nearest postcode is DT9 6EE. Turn off Ottery Lane towards the grounds maintenance buildings and follow the track through to the car park behind. There are no clubhouse facilities so bring your own water etc.

Map

See you there!


Who, What, When, How Much & Insurance?

Who?

Sherborne Touch is open to men and women; most players tend to be over 30s however, anybody younger who is no longer playing rugby competitively due to injury etc. is also welcome to join! No experience is necessary – we range from novices that have never played before to the grizzled 50-something prop with years of experience … and everything in between. The over 30s requirement is also not strictly enforced, we welcome those approaching that anniversary and we are even joined occasionally by much younger players as long as they respect the ethos with which we play the game.

You don’t need to book or let us know in advance, just turn up and introduce yourself – we will do our best to make you feel welcome. We do have a contact page detailing how you can get in touch with us if you do have any queries.

What?

Touch is a minimal contact game and is played at Sherborne Touch with an emphasis on fitness and fun. A ‘tackle’ is achieved simply by touching the opposition player anywhere except the head. After six tackles the ball is turned-over to the other team unless a try is scored first. The ball must be passed backwards and when tackled the ball must be rolled back through the tackled players legs before play can continue. There are various other minor local rules but these are easily picked-up along the way.

This is a minor variation of the RFU Touch Union Rules, but it seems to suit us! There is no referee as such, so the defence are the referees.

When?

Sherborne Touch is played twice a week

  • Monday 19:30 to 20:30
  • Thursday 19:30 to 20:30

On occasions it has been known for a number of the players go down to a local pub afterwards!

How Much?

Each session is £2. Your first four sessions are free – just to see if you like it. The money is used to pay for the hire of the AstroTurf and the lighting. Any excess is re-invested in equipment (bibs and balls) and occasional social activities. If you are unemployed or a student, talk to us, and we will come to an arrangement.

Insurance

We are covered by the Sherborne RFC/RFU umbrella policy that gives insurance for life-changing injury to players. However, it is suggested that you take out your own cover, if you feel it necessary, against minor injury, loss of earnings etc. as a result of injury playing touch rugby.