The Comox Valley Kickers hosted their first-ever Co-Ed Touch Rugby Tournament, on Aug. 26.
Lewis Park provided the perfect backdrop for a day of fierce, fun, and friendly competition, setting the stage for what is sure to become an annual tradition.
Registrants included individuals from all across Vancouver Island - Comox Valley, Campbell River, Hornby Island, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Ladysmith, Cowichan, and Victoria were all represented.
Tournament organizer Natalie Nguyen was very pleased about the event.
鈥淭his tournament was the perfect blend of competitive and fun and a great way to end the summer touch rugby season,鈥� said Nguyen. 鈥淚t was lovely to see people from across Vancouver Island travel to participate in this. It really means a lot. This tournament embodies the fact that rugby is more than just a sport; it鈥檚 a community.鈥�
The tournament format, designed to encourage participation, communication, and teamwork, saw individuals be placed onto four teams where different skill levels, from novices to seasoned veterans, came together for a display of rugby鈥檚 inclusivity and fun-loving spirit.
Each team was designated a colour and competed in a series of 20-minute touch rugby matches, playing a total of 5 games.
Touch rugby, a variant of the traditional game, places a strong emphasis on agility, speed, and teamwork while removing the more physical aspects, making it accessible to all ages and fitness levels.
Current players, alumni and supporters rallied around the tournament to ensure everyone enjoyed the day.
The bronze went to the White Hawks, while the silver was awarded to the Red Raiders, and the gold went to the Blue Steel.
Aaron L鈥橝rrivee, Comox Valley Kickers RFC president, was on hand to witness the event.
鈥淚t鈥檚 great to be able to provide a format that is accessible to many,鈥� said L鈥橝rrivee. 鈥淭his tournament helps grow the love for the game. We look forward to welcoming people back to this tournament in future years, as well as welcoming new players for our regular contact season starting up in a few weeks.鈥�
The inaugural Co-Ed Touch Rugby Tournament was hosted by the Comox Valley Kickers RFC.
The Kickers men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 teams are currently looking for players for the upcoming season.
The men鈥檚 team is the reigning BCRU Division 3 provincial champions and the women鈥檚 team is currently building a championship calibre team. No experience is needed and everyone is welcome.
Practices are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Cumberland Village Park. For more information about the Kickers, please visit
- Natalie Nguyen
