National Touch Series to showcase Pride match as part of historic celebration weekend in Banbury

As part of Pride month, the upcoming mixed National Touch Series tournaments will mark a first ever England Touch Pride Weekend in celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.

Across the weekend, both the Elite National Touch Series on Saturday June 18th and the Development National Touch Series on Sunday June 19th will be themed to encourage everyone to enjoy the occasion.

There will be rainbows aplenty, progress pride flags and bunting as well as a Pride playlist to keep spirits high. Every match will also be played using specially designed balls provided by our partners Pride In Touch, who will also be on hand if people wish to buy their iconic balls, hoodies or vests or wear some free face paint.

On Sunday lunchtime from 1pm, we will showcase an inaugural Pride themed exhibition match where players will be invited to play in a social match on the main pitch wearing specially designed Pride In Touch vests, which will be broadcast on our live stream. Match commentary will be provided by rugby commentator, England Touch international and co-founder of Pride In Touch, Nick Heath.

At England Touch, we understand the importance of visibility and action when it comes to welcoming people from the LGBTQ+ community into sport. We hope that all players, officials, volunteers and spectators will join us in celebrating this weekend by bringing the colour.