The country’s best touch football juniors will continue to chase national glory on the Coast for years to come thanks to the extension of a successful partnership. Touch Football Australia, in conjunction with Sunshine Coast Council, announced last week they had struck a deal to keep the National Youth Championships in the region for the next three years.
The continuation of the mega-event is expected to bring massive economic benefits, with it already contributing about $35 million over the last 13 years it has featured on the Coast.
The tournament is expected to have soaring player numbers. It was on track last year to have a 50 per cent increase before COVID-19 border restrictions. The under 12s, 14s and 16s age categories will make a return, having featured in the competition for the first time last year.
The returning competition has seen many alumni go on to become mega-talents, including Clive Churchill medallist Ryan Papenhuyzen, Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga and Queensland women’s Origin stars Tamika Upton and Tarryn Aiken.
– NRL Touch Football
