For the third time, the Haven for Children participated in celebration of “The Santos Frank Get into Rugby – Junior Touch Rugby Festival” last July 20, 2019 at Southern Plains, Canlubang, Laguna. The festivities was also participated in by Tuloy Foundations, Bulacan Bombers, Albay Bulkans, and Miriam College.

Touch Rugby refers to the game derived from rugby football in which instead of tackling each other, the players tag their opponents by touching them on any part of the body, clothes, or even the ball. A formal, competitive variety of football known as touch has developed from rugby league into its own kind of sport. Touch rugby games are being played as training activities for rugby league unions, particularly in schools and junior clubs as an informal kind of social sport.

Touch rugby was introduced to Haven for Women by a well-known group called Philippine Rugby Football Union, Inc. Since then, the children loved and enjoyed playing the game as it helps them build their self-esteem, increase their socialization skills, communication skills, teamwork, and their leadership skills. During the break time, the organizers let the children play some mini games to heighten the fun and strengthen camaraderie among themselves.

The Haven for Children team gained eight (8) straight wins out of eight (8) matches from different categories which made the team champion of all divisions under the 12, 14, and 16 year old categories. The children definitely enjoyed the experience as they bonded well with other players.

Playing sports such as Touch Rugby help the children build self-esteem, increase their socialization skills, communication skills, and enhance their leadership skills. ###