Saturday 24th May marked another milestone for the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation, as their much-loved Annual Touch Rugby Festival returned even bigger, better, and more inclusive than ever before.
With 13 diverse teams taking part, the festival showcased a fantastic range of experience, skill levels, and ages, bringing together a vibrant mix of players from across the community. The day was filled with fast-paced, competitive but friendly matches, all played in the true spirit of community sport.
Ben Turner, Programme Lead and Festival Organiser, said:
“This year’s festival was a real celebration of everything we aim to achieve at the Foundation — accessibility, inclusivity, and fun. Every year, the event grows in size and energy, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see so many people getting involved, especially those new to the game.”
At the end of the tournament, congratulations were in order for this year’s champions, who successfully defended their title to claim a second consecutive win. A fantastic achievement that brought cheers and applause from all sides.
Once the final whistle blew, the celebrations didn’t stop. Players, families, and supporters came together at the Fylde RFC Beer Festival, rounding off the day with fantastic local drinks, music, and a shared appreciation for a brilliant day of sport and connection.
A Shoutout to the Women’s Teams: Leading by Example
Among the many highlights of the day was the exceptional turnout and performance from the women’s-only teams. Several of whom were taking part in their very first tournament after only recently starting touch rugby.
These teams brought energy, determination, and true team spirit, inspiring others and proving that rugby really is for everyone. Their participation reflects the growing momentum behind women’s and girls’ rugby in the region, and the Foundation is proud to support that growth at all levels.
Same Time Next Year? Absolutely.
With momentum and community spirit at an all-time high, there’s no doubt that the Touch Rugby Festival will return next year. Whether you’re a regular player, a curious newcomer, or simply someone who enjoys a good day out with great people, this event is firmly becoming a fixture in the local sporting calendar.
Stay tuned for 2026 details… and we’ll see you next year on the pitch!
