FAQs

What is Touch rugby?

Touch is a limited contact version of rugby that originated in Sydney in the 1960s as a training game  for Rugby League. Today it is a fully fledged sport in its own right governed globally by the Federation of International Touch and the Irish Touch Association on the island of Ireland. The pitch is 50x70m wide, you get 6 touches per possession and 6 people are on the field at any one time, with rolling subs.  

It’s fast, fun, social, mixed gender and a sport for life. 

Where is training?

Located at Strandtown school pitches, enter from North Road pedestrian gate entrance.

What time are sessions?

Mondays - 6:30-8:00PM

Our Monday sessions will be our club nights, combining fun and interactive games and skills sessions to help learn the game and develop those key skills, ending in a fun and social game to apply what we've learnt.

Fridays - 6:00-7:00PM

Our Friday sessions will be our social session where you can just turn up and play matches. Followed by an optional short walk to a close-by drinking establishment for some well earned refreshments.

How much does membership or sessions cost?

To encourage participation, we are running as a PAYG organisation with not hefty membership costs. Sessions will be £2 to be paid on the night. Card is preferred but we will also accept cash (exact change). Membership to the Irish Touch Association will be required yearly which includes insurance and is currently priced at £20

What do I need to bring with me?

You’ll need a bottle of water and rugby/football boots with plastic studs (mouldys) are strongly encouraged but if you don’t have those, you can wear your grippiest trainers. 

Who is welcome?

Everyone aged 14+ is welcome. As a mixed gender sport, everyone plays as equals on the pitch. No experience is required so come along and give it a go - our qualified coaches are ready to welcome you and get you started on your touch journey!

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable sports clothing and bring a warm layer for before and after training. Football/rugby boots with plastic studs (mouldys) are strongly encouraged but if you don’t have those, you can wear your grippiest trainers. 

Is there parking?

Direct access to the school parking is not permitted however there is plenty of on street parking along North Road.

How do I get there on public transport?

Located off the Upper Newtownards Road at Strandtown School the Glider or Metro bus services run a regular service to the bus stop at North Road. A 2 min walk will bring you to the front of the school.

Do I need any rugby experience?

No experience is necessary, our qualified coaches will help ensure all sessions are run in a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

Are there toilets?

Unfortunately, we do not have access to the toilet facilities at Strandtown School.

I still have a question – who can I reach out to?

Please drop a mail to info@eastsideeagles.co.uk or reach out to us on your preferred social media platform where we would be happy to answer any questions. Or pop on down on Monday or Friday and ask to speak to Andy, Steve, Emma or Aimee and get a feel for the sessions.