Tag players gearing up for London Origin

By Phillip Browne
WITH the Autumn Tag Rugby season starting this week across London at 13 different locations, it also means its London Origin time.

The London Origin series, taking place this year at Wandsworth Common on Saturday, 15 September, is a chance for the best tag rugby players in the capital to battle it out in good old State of Origin fashion; mate against mate, to see which side of the Thames reigns supreme.

In 2010, the inaugural London Tag Rugby Origin series was held at Battersea Park. In a thrilling mixed encounter, South London led 6-3 at the half-time interval and was up 8-6 with five minutes remaining. North London made a courageous comeback to seal a nail biting 9-8 victory with Oztag Australia representative, Tim Ross starring for North London.

In 2011, the South Londoners got revenge at Twyford Avenue Sports Ground, completing a clean sweep in the Mixed A grade (9-7) and Mixed Social grade (10-5) winning both matches to clinch the series. London Australia representative, Susie Courtney playing for South London Mixed A grade, was the star performer.

This year, each division’s matches (Men’s, Mixed & Ladies’) will count towards the series points to see who will be crowned the 2012 London Tag Rugby Origin series champions.

The eligibility guidelines for London Origin are that if you live north of the Thames River, you qualify to represent North London. If you live south of the Thames River, you qualify to represent South London. This will be a chance to see the best players in London light up the tag rugby pitch.

In other news, Try Tag Rugby are turning three and to celebrate are holding a 3rd birthday party Thames River cruise on Friday, 7 September. The cruise will also double as a Tag Rugby World Cup fundraiser for the Great Britain & Ireland Men’s and Mixed teams who head to Auckland in December. All players, partners, friends and supporters are welcome. Tickets are available at www.trytagrugby.com

Also, the Try Tag Rugby All-Stars depart for the 2012 Malta International Tag Rugby Festival this Thursday, 30 August seeking to defend their 2011 title. The London Tag Rugby community wish them the best of luck for the tournament.

If you would like to get involved in one of the fastest growing sports in London, new team and individual registrations are welcome. This is a great chance to develop a network of friends if you are new to London.

To register for a Try Tag Rugby competition or event, go to www.trytagrugby.com or email info@trytagrugby.com for more details.