European Touch Championships medal haul

Last week, 10 England Touch teams descended on the small city of Vichy, France. With the thermometer tipping 30◦C plus, our fitness and endurance were tested to the max throughout the 4 days of competition. Going in as favourites for most categories, we did not disappoint!

Canterbury had representation in both Mens and Womens Opens categories. Vaughn Meredith continued his success with the Mens Opens team, coming away with the gold! After a tight 10-10 draw with Ireland in the group stages, England showed their class in the final to run out 10-3 winners against the Irish.

Lydia Ticehurst and Erin Payten won gold with the Womens Open team! Erin stepped into the side to replace her sister Danni, who missed out due to injury. England were the reigning European Champions and came into the tournament as favourites. They did not disappoint and went undefeated throughout the tournament, beating France 10-4 in the final.

This year was the first time a Womens 40s category was run at a European Championships! It was a milestone moment for European Touch and touch rugby in general. Suz Wilson brought home the gold with England W40s who went undefeated throughout and beat Scotland 5-1 in the final.

Eddie French had his first outing as an Assistant Coach for the Mens 45s team. It was a rocky road in the group stages with 3 wins, a draw and a loss to Wales but they pulled it out the bag in the final to beat the Welsh side 6-3 and take gold!

As the dust settles on an amazing tournament, the attention turns to the World Cup which takes place in Nottingham UK, in July 2024. With less than a year to go, competition will be fierce for places and we look forward to seeing our Canterbury players and coaches represent in those World Cup Teams!