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University National Touch Series tapping off with more teams
The 2019/20 University National Touch Series kicks off in Oxford this Saturday, with current holders Bath aiming for the top step once more.
Bath took home the top trophy at four of the five Uni NTS competitions last season and showed how much strength they have within their squads, with the Bath 2nds taking 3rd place on two occasions.
England Women’s Open International and Bath Hawks Club Chair Bronte Sykes has said that Bath can’t wait to get started and hope to get their hands on more silverware this season.
“After a very successful year last season; with our firsts regaining the title and our seconds making it to the semis for the first time, we can't wait for the 2019/20 season to commence!” she says.
“Of course we know that Exeter and Loughborough are going to come out strong and be great competition, but we're also excited to see what other universities are going to bring after their pre-season
“For the first time ever, Bath are going to be fielding four teams, which just goes to show how much the sport is growing. Not only is the participation increasing, but the standard of the game is increasing each year, and we are very excited about the depth we have in our squad!”
In all, 18 teams will travel to Oxford RFC, a record for a Uni NTS first round, with 10 universities represented. This season has already seen a record number of universities expressing interest in playing in the Uni NTS and it is hoped participation numbers will beat previous records once again.
As always, Exeter and Loughborough look strong and will hope to knock Bath off the top spot as they both have each previously done. But could this season see other teams vie for the top spot? Bristol, a rejuvenated Cardiff and Nottingham (who finished in the top four at three competitions last season) will be looking to edge that bit closer to the first place spot too.
You can CLICK HERE to see the full list of matches.
The first tap off is at 9am with the tournament concluding at around 5pm.
