Touch Rugger San Jose

An experience was had by all.  In listening to our fellow players touch rugby was played differently in the Oysterfest.  Two-handed touch, tackling upon frustration (or too lazy to chase), and the new 5 yards becoming 2 steps.  That being said the tournament was approached with positive attitudes of keeping each other calm and disciplined.

Games one and two were wake up calls for our players to discover that they really are skilled at the game of touch. Each player had great ball handling skills, techniques to get across the try line and unique strategies to achieve placement in the semi-finals. The semi-final game gave way to a win placing our guys in the finals. The finals game was exciting, frustrating, exhilarating and definitely nail-biting as tries were called for various reasons. At the end of the final our team placed second with a new team of guys who now understand that the Oysterfest presents rules different to our own.

Joolee Lim has been unofficially elected as MVP of the team but should have been for the tournament.  She endured being the only female in the entire tournament, side stepped several opponents double her weight and size and basically had the ability to play great touch and remain unharmed.  That my friends is talent!

To those of you who participated in the tournament, CONGRATULATIONS, on doing so well against a few frustrating moments.  You made it to the finals and next year you will be prepared to win the tournament.  Check out the photos on the links page.

Portland Hunters welcomed everyone with open arms.  Teams from Arizona, Portland, Santa Rosa, San Jose, Arizona and of course our visitors from New Zealand.  New Zealand bought players from the NZ Touch Academy.

The Academy ran a training camp for future touch rugby players and for adult players wanting to improve their skills and knowledge.

The tournament was a one day experience where there were 10 teams ready to participate and have some fun.  Although the weather began quite cold and chilly the day presented much heat on the field.  Teams were equally matched and competitive. 

Our San Jose representatives were Shaun, Jean, Luke, Jon, Reily and of course Gordon, who was on his way to Vancouver.  We were given 2 more players from Arizona Clint and Mike and then had Pablo join us from Portland.  Our two troopers who travelled all the way from Utah were there to support us too Colin and Charlotte. 

The day presented challenges and surprisingly we made it through to the playoffs.  However, our success was short lived as the Untouchables beat us 7 to 5.  Our best game of the entire tournament.

All in all it really was a great day, a great experience and we all thoroughly enjoyed the sandwiches. 

Good one guys.  Florida is our next big FEAT!!!