Canadian Touch Rugby Nationals - Nationals Debut Draws a Crowd

Touch’s meteoric rise in Canada reached a new peak this summer, hosting its inaugural Canadian Nationals on 28–29 June in Colwood, British Columbia. The two-day tournament brought together 10 teams from across Canada and the US, marking a major milestone in the sport’s comeback on Canadian soil.

For many, it wasn’t just a tournament, it was a statement. 

From first touch to final whistle, the event was a blend of competitive fire and community spirit, with plenty of signs that this is just the beginning for Touch in Canada.

Fuelled by Canada’s return to the international stage at the 2024 Touch World Cup, their first appearance since 1988, the domestic scene has flourished. 

“The growth of the sport in the last three years has been immense,”

said Touch Canada President Daryl Conneely.

“I was very proud to see our sport on display at the highest level in Colwood and expose some new fans to the blistering speed of Touch.”

This homegrown event showcased just how far the national scene has come. Reigning champions Meralomas Touch came to defend their title. The quality on display was high, with plenty of internationally capped players in action.

The weekend featured a mix of experienced internationals and exciting new talent, and in the end, it was Portland who emerged victorious, beating Samurai in a tightfinal, while Toronto claimed third after a strong campaign. 

The off-field atmosphere was just as vibrant, with spectators enjoying the Goose Step Challenge, won by England’s Emily Crowe and Alan Ouya. 

All matches on Field 1 were streamed live, a first for the nation, and are now available on the Touch Canada YouTube channel

The event was also supported by 18 officials from Canada and the US. Included a Level 1 referee course, and three upgrades. The finals were overseen by Rachael Ogilvie-Harris, Jay Alston, and Jon Baron.

With free entry, high-level action, and a uniquely inclusive format, the Nationals felt like the start of something big. And based on what we saw in Colwood — Canada’s just getting started.

Thank You to Everyone Who Made It Happen

This event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of so many dedicated people. A huge thank you to:

Participating Teams

We were proud to welcome 10 teams from across Canada and the US:

• Meralomas Black

• Meralomas Orange

• Montowa

• Portland

• Samurai

• Scribes

• Seattle

• Toronto

• Victoria Blue

• Victoria White

  
  

Players & Volunteers

All players who helped set up and take down on Day 1 and Day 2.

Our amazing volunteers who stepped up wherever needed.

Event Support

Victoria Touch for hosting.

Athletic Therapists for keeping players in top condition.

Media & Streaming

Brian – Field 1 camera operator.

Mackenzie & Freya – YouTube livestream and scoreboards.

Touch Canada Planning Committee

Daryl Conneely – President

Aaron Frisby – Lead Organizer

Kayne Tapiki – Touch Rugby Director

Rachel Cheng – Youth Touch Rugby Director

Rachael Ogilvie-Harris – Referee Director

Yin Kei Ho – Treasurer

Shain Faye Poon – Social Media Director

Taphy Lai – Funding Director

Hayden Burford – Communications Director

Izak 

Special thanks to Ash – Google Sheets wizard

Referees & Officials

Jay Alston – US Touch Referee Director.

Rachael Ogilvie-Harris – Touch Canada Referee Director

Unite – Supplier of our referee kits.

All 18 referees from Canada and the US who made the games possible.