With our spring season over, Bend Rugby doesn’t hang up the boots — we just swap them for something a little lighter. Our Touch Rugby Series is back in full swing for the summer, and we’re inviting everyone to come out, get involved, and enjoy rugby the easygoing way.
What Is Touch Rugby?
Touch rugby is a non-contact, fast-paced version of the sport that focuses on running, passing, support play, and space awareness. It’s easy to learn, fun to play, and one of the best introductions to rugby for people of all ages and experience levels. With no tackling, no scrums, and no lineouts, the emphasis is on fitness, teamwork, and skill — not brute force.
Touch is also a great way to stay rugby-fit during the off-season. The tempo is high — play only slows down after a score — so you’re constantly moving, scanning for gaps, supporting your teammates, or getting back onside on defense. It’s a perfect environment to sharpen your decision-making, passing, and footwork — whether you’re brand new to the sport or looking to keep sharp between seasons.
When and Where?
Our current summer series runs from April through August, with weekly sessions on:
Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:30 PM
Saturday or Sunday mornings around 10:00–10:30 AM
We typically meet at Riverbend Park, but all updates — including any location or schedule changes — will be posted on our social media channels and website calendar.
What You’ll Need
Cleats are ideal (we play on grass), but regular athletic shoes are fine.
Bring water, electrolytes, and don’t forget the sunscreen.
No gear? No problem. Just show up ready to run around and have some fun.
Who Can Play?
Everyone. Seriously. Touch rugby is free, open to the public, and no club membership is required. It’s part of our effort to grow the sport and make it accessible to anyone who’s curious. Newcomers, seasoned players, college students, curious parents — all are welcome.
We mix teams up every round to keep things fresh and welcoming. Sessions typically start with some casual free play and then move into “first to five” games. Once a game wraps, we take a water break, mix up the teams again, and keep the good vibes rolling. It’s fun, laid-back, and pressure-free.
And yes — we usually have music playing while we play.
Why Join?
Touch rugby has helped recruit new players to our men's and women's teams, and it’s especially valuable for COCC students looking for something fun, active, and community-driven. Our sessions are entirely player-led, creating a chill, no-hassle atmosphere where you can come to learn, compete, or just run around with some great people.
Even if you’re not quite ready to jump in, feel free to stop by and watch a session. You’ll get to see what the game looks like and meet some of the people who make Bend Rugby such a welcoming group.
What's Coming Up?
We’ll likely hold a special session around July 4th — expect red, white, and blue gear and a good time. Keep an eye on our socials for any pop-up sessions or changes to the schedule, especially as the club gears up for our 50th anniversary celebrations later in the summer. Some touch dates may shift as we prep for our tournament, the Cascade Classic, in August.
Let’s Play
Touch rugby is rugby without the bruises — a gateway into the game, a fun way to stay active, and a great way to connect with the Bend Rugby community. We’ll see you out there.