The energy is building in English Harbour as the much-anticipated Antigua Touch Rugby Seriesnh is set to begin. This groundbreaking event marks a pivotal moment in Antigua’s sporting landscape, offering an exciting introduction to rugby for both experienced players and newcomers in a fun and inclusive setting.
Laying the Groundwork for Rugby’s Future
Spearheading this initiative is Omar Rasool, a dedicated organizer with a bold seven-year plan to embed rugby into Antigua’s sports culture. The series is designed to establish a solid foundation for rugby, with future matches lined up on March 29th, April 26th, and May 3rd. These scheduled games are part of a larger strategy aimed at fostering a strong and sustainable rugby community on the island.
“Our main goal is to get young Antiguans involved by integrating rugby into schools and nurturing local talent,” Rasool explained. “In five years, we aim to build a competitive Olympic Sevens team.”
A Tournament for All Skill Levels
The event will feature a diverse lineup of teams, including students from Antigua Grammar School, expatriates, and visiting yacht crews, making for an exciting mix of competitors. Unlike traditional rugby, touch rugby eliminates tackling, making it an ideal format for newcomers while still emphasizing the strategic elements of the game.
A key player in the initiative is former NFL athlete Andy Katoa, who previously played for Brigham Young University and was drafted by the San Diego Chargers. His coaching expertise, gained from leading both the Tonga Sevens and U.S. Sevens rugby teams, is set to be a game-changer for the local rugby scene.
“When I introduced rugby at Antigua Grammar School last year, my goal was simple: get students to fall in love with the sport,” Katoa shared. “Ultimately, our vision is to develop a team that can compete on the Olympic stage.”
Strong Backing from Key Figures
This initiative has received endorsements from the Antiguan government and the Olympic Committee, strengthening its long-term sustainability. The coaching team—Rasool, Amir, and Lewis—is committed to developing the next generation of Antiguan rugby players, providing expert guidance to young athletes.
Additionally, Mervyn Richards and Vernon Springer have played instrumental roles in promoting rugby on the island, helping to raise awareness and encourage participation.
The Antigua Touch Rugby Series aims to be a festival-like celebration rather than just a sporting event. Spectators can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere featuring food, drinks, music, dance performances, live video highlights, and real-time announcements.
“This is about more than just rugby—it’s about bringing people together through sport and culture,” said Rasool.
For non-residents, a $20 admission fee will go directly toward supporting rugby development programs, including funding for coaching, equipment, and youth engagement initiatives.
Get Involved
The public is encouraged to attend and even join a team on-site, making the event an opportunity for both spectators and participants to immerse themselves in the world of rugby. This series represents Antigua’s first major step toward building a thriving rugby community and could ultimately lead to the island’s presence on the global rugby stage.
Whether you’re a rugby enthusiast or simply curious about the sport, this tournament promises an action-packed, inclusive, and history-making experience. Be part of the movement as Antigua paves the way for a new era in rugby!
