A huge congratulations to the Year 7/8 touch rugby team, who were victorious at the National School The Year 7/8 Touch Rugby team triumphed at the National School Championships held in Oxford Harlequins Football Club on Friday 27th June officially crowned national champions! The team delivered a phenomenal performance, demonstrating skill, discipline, and pure determination.

Spearheaded by Ms Hanlon — herself a North West representative — the students were introduced to the game earlier this year, and their rapid progress has been nothing short of exceptional. The team proved themselves in a league of their own and were hailed as ones to watch in the future. A special mention goes to Alfie W, who was awarded Most Valuable Player for his outstanding contribution throughout the tournament.

The success didn’t stop there. Our Year 9 team also impressed, finishing a strong fourth despite going head-to-head with older Year 10 teams. With that kind of grit and growth, there’s no doubt the Year 9/10 title will be ours next year.

This is an extraordinary achievement, and a testament to the students’ commitment, teamwork, and sporting excellence. They have done themselves and the College proud.

Adding even more excitement, the Federation of International Touch (FIT) has announced interest in including mixed-gender touch rugby in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. With the sport gaining global recognition for its inclusivity and appeal, it’s not beyond imagination that we may be witnessing the early steps of some future Olympians right here at St. Anselm’s College.

Well done to all involved — this is only the beginning!