Local junior touch rugby is enjoying a serious growth spurt, as player numbers have increased and development teams are now representing Wānaka in regional competitions.

Junior touch reached a significant milestone this season when local U12 and U14 girls and boys teams represented Wānaka at events held in Queenstown, Winton, Oamaru and Christchurch.

In the past. junior touch rugby players were selected to play under a generic Otago banner, meaning multiple trips to Dunedin for selection, training and games. 

This year, for the first time, Otago Touch agreed to hold trials in Wānaka, and those selected played in a Wānaka team.

“This was a huge step forward for the touch community,” girls’ U12 co-coach Kirsten Wyatt said.

“We have really had to push the boundaries to be recognised as a singular entity, no longer under the banner of Otago.”

More than 70 children, from ages 8 -13, participated in the trials held in mid September in Wānaka and four development teams were chosen to represent Wānaka: U12 Girls, U12 Boys, U14 Girls and U14 Boys.

Kirsten said fellow coach Amy McClintock was instrumental in achieving this goal as she spearheaded the initiative to establish Wānaka’s own representative teams. 

“We were told 'no' so many times but the sheer determination from Amy McClintock, in particular, ensured we were heard,” she said.

In addition to the hard work and commitment from the players, Kirsten also recognised the contribution from local sponsors, coaches and managers, supporters, parents and families.

“We are deeply grateful for their contributions, which helped bring this dream to life,” she said.

Junior touch’s growing popularity is also reflected in the significant increase in the number of local players.

It’s usually played on Monday afternoons from October through to December and this year Wānaka fielded 19 teams, up from 12 teams last season.

Kirsten attributes this success to its more casual, less competitive style.

“The junior module is based on a 'play with your mates' mentality and is great 'grass roots' touch,” she said.

She said Wānaka Junior Touch encouraged more children to get involved in trials next year.

“Let’s continue to build on this foundation and inspire a new generation of touch players in Wānaka”.

PHOTO: Amy McClintock