Tri Tag Rugby launched in Western Australia last week at Curtin University Rugby’s Come & Try Day!
Rugby Australia’s new, official non-contact rugby format saw its first group of eager participants take to the field on Friday, donning the green and pink tags for Tri Tag’s state launch.
Tri Tag Rugby is a minimal contact, low injury risk, attack-based rugby union game that incorporates the skill set and fabric of rugby. The format offers a safe, inclusive, and fast-paced alternative to the traditional game, whilst still embracing all the aspects that make Rugby Union unique. It's highly inclusive, meaning no matter the age or skill set of a participant, all can run on to the field for a game of fun and rugby.
Set to host the inaugural Tri Tag Hub, launching on October 10, 2024, Curtin Rugby was thrilled to offer local participants the opportunity to try Tri Tag for the first time.
“On Friday night, Curtin Rugby Union Club had the privilege of hosting the launch of Tri Tag in Western Australia,” Junior President, Nicole Shortland, said.
“This provided the community with the opportunity to Come and Try a game of Tri Tag. The turnout was incredible, and we thank all those who participated.”
Over 60 Tri Tag first-timers headed down to Edinburgh Oval on Friday afternoon, ranging in ages and abilities. The event saw parents playing alongside their kids, juniors scoring tries against adults, and All Abilities players taking on seasoned members of RugbyWA’s senior competitions.
For some participants, it was the opportunity to play the sport they love in a different way, whilst for others, it marked their first entry into the sport.
“It was great to see so many new participants on the field to have a go at Tri Tag,” RugbyWA’s General Manager – Rugby, Dane Lazarus, said.
“Seeing both old and new faces taking to the field, having a laugh and really enjoying their rugby was an amazing sight to see. With Tri Tag launching as Rugby Australia’s new non-contact format, we’re hoping to see members of our community get around it, and really enjoy this new opportunity being offered within our sport.”
“Rugby is continuing to grow within our state, and this offers a way for even more participants to fall in love with rugby union.”
The program launch sees the opportunity to grow the rugby community, with the format offering a versatile and inclusive game for all.
“Often, we see children not sure if they want to participate because they are shy or anxious and parents trying to peel their child off their sidelines to get them onto the field,” Shortland shared.
“Tri Tag is literally a game changer. Watching parents and children run on the field together, running around, laughing while learning new skills and having fun was heartwarming. Those experiences are something you never forget.”
“As we look ahead to the beginning of our Curtin Rugby Union Tri Tag Hub in October, we encourage people to come along and join a team for the 10-week program. It’s a great way to make connections in the community and have fun playing Tri Tag!”
Classic Wallaby, Sam Norton-Knight, and Wallaroo, Rebecca Clough, got involved in the action, joining junior teams on the field.
Following a week of travelling throughout Southwest Western Australia with the Gold Blooded Tour, both legends of the game were well acquainted with the new format, assisting newcomers to learn the game and have fun. From try assists to cheering on breakaways, Clough and Norton-Knight provided incredible support and education to all the juniors out on the field.
Tri-taggers were also surprised with a visit from Wallabies, including Luke Reimer, Tom Robertson and Hamish Stewart, who came down to support the new format’s launch in the state.
Tri Tag is set to kick off its inaugural season in October 2024, with three Tri Tag Hubs taking place within the metropolitan region. Curtin University, Wanneroo and UWA Sport will host the new format at their clubs throughout the Spring and Summer off-season, with Kalamunda and Southern Lions joining the fun in January 2025.
To register for the 2024 Tri Tag season, visit wa.rugby/participate/tritag.
Tri Tag Hubs
Kicking Off in October 2024
- Curtin University Rugby - Edinburgh Oval, Bentley
- Wanneroo Districts - Kingsway Sports Complex, Madeley
- UWA Sport - McGillivray Oval, Mount Claremont
Kicking Off in January 2025
- Kalamunda Districts - Hartfield Park, Forrestfield
- Southern Lions - Success Regional Sporting Facility, Success
