This is a way of introducing competitive games between Stirling University and Stirling Touch Club, pitching Youth against Experience as they compete for the Champions Trophy.  Initially it will be a three match Mixed Open series, with games taking place on 1st February, 1st March and 22nd March.  If successful then the intention is to host other teams and look at expanding to Men and Women’s games as the number increase.

With large parts of the University semesters coming when there is less Touch played, this allows students to experience good competition at the same time as giving the local club some pre-season practice.  Alongside the competitive games there will be mixed friendly matches and coaching available to help develop both players and referees in both clubs.  The referee team will be led by the World Cup bound Phil Leeks.

Stirling University coach, Callum Murray, said "Having the series in Winter gives the Uni players some active competition during term time, generating more interest from new players and allowing them to appreciate the sport fully.  The aim is to feed the Uni players into local clubs during the summer months, keeping them actively involved and supporting an increase in number of younger players getting into the sport throughout the country."

Stirling Touch coach, Jon Creasey, said "The CTS stemmed from a desire between both our club and the University for some matches throughout Winter, and hopefully extend to other gaps in the annual Touch calendar.  With the Uni now firmly established the timing and frequency of the matches should suit both clubs, and hopefully involve other teams and clubs within the region as the sport develops."

Central Touch Association President, Euan Kerr, expressed his thanks to Jon and Callum for their hard work in bringing this exciting new concept to the region. “It’s really encouraging to see the local club andUniversity continuing to work so closely together, finding ways to help each other develop and promote the sport within our region.  I think this model we have, pairing established club with University, is possibly something that could be looked at elsewhere in the country, as we all strive to bring more youth into the game.  It’s a win for both clubs!”

Both Stirling University and Stirling Touch are always encouraging new players to get involved, anyone interested can contact info@stirlingtouch.com.