TSP: TOUCH FOOTBALL

What is the Hunter Sport High School Touch Football Program?

The program has been operating since 1998 and provides a unique opportunity for talented touch players (boys and girls aged 12 – 18 years of age) within the Hunter region to combine effectively academic and sporting excellence.

The program includes:

• 2 x 1.5 hour training sessions per week.
• Competitions at Regional and State level.
• Competitions divided into years 7/8 and 9/10 State Championships.
• Sport psychology sessions.
• Strength and conditioning component.
• Tournaments against other sports high schools.
• Touch Football camp.
• Fitness Assessments twice a year at Balance Health Club.

What has the Program Achieved?

• 2006/2007 – Year 7/8 All School Champions Boys and Girls
• 2007 – Year 9/10 All Schools Champions Girls
• 2007/2008 Year 7/8 and Year 9/10 Boys and Girls Regional Champions
• 2008 – Final 16 in the state – Open Girls Team
• 2009 - Georgia Wallace NSWCHS Representative
• 2009 -5 Hunter Region Representatives
• 2009 - Year 9/10 Girls Team – State Quarter Finalists
• 2009 -Year 7/8 Boys and Girls Teams – Newcastle Division Champion

How does the program work?

The program was developed to encourage improvement in basic skill ability and promote all aspects of touch including administration, refereeing and ball handling skills. Defensive play and team tactics are emphasised in this program which are utilised in other sports. Introductory theory lessons cover nutrition, sports psychology, recovery, strength, agility and injury prevention with guest speakers providing specialised knowledge and information.

Players have the opportunity to gain a certificate in refereeing and can utilise this at the local competitions as a “paid” job .

How does it link to Association/Community touch?

All players are recommended to participate in affiliated competitions conducted by the Australian Touch Association and to strive to trial for representative honours at club level.

Through our Touch network and relationships with the Hornetts coaches and development officer, all players are provided with a multitude of opportunities to enhance their touch careers both within school and at club representative levels.

Who are the Touch Coaches?

• Sherin Boogaard – Level 2 Certificate
• Debbie Potts Australian Touch Football Representative

What does the program provide?

The program has a strong emphasis on:

• Individual skill development
• Fitness training; group/team skills
• Structure and tactics
• Rules of the game
• Health and fitness management and sports psychology.
• Organisational and time management skills
• Interactive and positive learning environment
• Regular fitness assessment at Balance Health Club
• Sports Administration for Touch Football

What do the players say about the program?

“I have really enjoyed being part of the TSP Program. My coaches have been instrumental in my skill development and knowledge of the game. It has also helped me combine my sport with my studies.” Testimonial from Tanya McNeill – Former Year 12 student 2009

How do I apply?

To be part of this program prospective students need to obtain an application package from our web page. Students must participate in regular touch football competitions and undertake a trial, and provide supporting documentation as detailed in the application package. Note that students may be in any year, and acceptance and ongoing placement in the program is based on continued academic effort, acceptable attendance levels and an excellent behaviour record.
Students are supported by a school environment which caters for the academic and welfare needs of the talented athlete, allowing students to gain a quality education whilst still pursuing their sporting dreams.