The South Coast Five Aside Beach Touch Tournament, now in its 12th edition, is gearing up to bring together teams from the Coast region, Nairobi, Naivasha, and Tanzania for a weekend of exhilarating touch rugby action on 14-16 July 2023.
Hosted by the South Coast Pirates RFC, the only club in Kwale County playing in the championship league of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), this highly anticipated event is set to captivate the local community and showcase the spirit of the game.
The tournament, which will take place at the Safari Beach Hotel in Diani, has experienced tremendous growth since its inception, expanding from a handful of teams to a maximum of 28. Each team, composed of eight individuals, with five players on the field at any given time, will compete across various categories, including all-women, mixed, all-men, and veterans (40+).
Touch rugby, known for its non-contact nature, invites players of all ages and genders to participate, making it an inclusive and accessible sport for everyone.
As a sport that values skill, agility, and strategy, touch rugby has become a highlight on the local sporting calendar.
The South Coast Five Aside Touch Tournament, in particular, has gained a reputation as a high-profile occasion that generates considerable interest and excitement within the community.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is gradually regaining momentum, with participating teams from the United Kingdom in previous years.
The South Coast Pirates RFC, proud hosts of the tournament, have put together an exciting schedule that promises a weekend filled with intense matches.
The games will kick off on Friday night and culminate in the finals on Sunday afternoon. The Safari Beach Hotel in Diani will provide an idyllic backdrop for the tournament, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for players and spectators alike.
Teams from the Coast region, Nairobi, Naivasha, and even Tanzania will converge on Diani to showcase their skills and compete for the coveted title.
The South Coast Pirates RFC, known for their dedication to promoting rugby in Kwale County, are eager to provide a platform for local talent to shine and foster camaraderie among the participating teams.
Registration for the tournament is currently open, with a fee of Kes 35,000 for a team of eight. This registration fee includes playing t-shirts, four meals, mineral water, and medical support, including the services of a physiotherapist. By providing these amenities, the organizers aim to ensure that all teams can fully focus on their performance and make the most of their tournament experience.
Rugby enthusiasts and members of the local community are eagerly anticipating the South Coast Five Aside Touch Tournament. With its blend of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship, this event promises to be a thrilling showcase of touch rugby talent.
As teams from different regions come together to compete, the tournament will undoubtedly ignite a sense of unity and celebration within the vibrant sporting community of Diani.
