Northern Territory is one of the country’s most hotly-contested sporting markets but cross-code legend Mark Gasnier believes Tri Tag Rugby can captivate a whole new player base.
The former NSW Origin centre and French rugby union star was on deck last month to introduce the game to schools and clubs across the Territory and says there’s no better place for Tri Tag Rugby to flourish.
“We live in a world where it’s a broader sport than just contact and we want it to be age appropriate as well, so our whole game was designed for a person to get out of it whatever they choose,” Gasnier told NT Rugby.
“So whether you’re a first time participant or whether you’re there to develop your skills, it’s a perfect tool to use up here where there are so many multi-skilled and cross code athletes.”
Gasnier visited more than a dozen schools, clubs and clinics during his week-long visit and believes appetite is growing for new sporting options such a Tri Tag Rugby.
@tritagrugby on tour in the Northern Territory. @oloughlin_catholic_college ✌🏼
Posted by Tritagrugby on Wednesday, May 17, 2023
“We’ve love to see as many people as possible be able to come and try our game but it’s also a great tool for Northern Territory rugby to see how it fits within existing pathways and programs,” he said.
“Tri Tag Rugby is quite fast paced, it’s got set piece elements and all those things that replicate on-file decision making and good instincts but it’s done without that fear of contact which really opens the door to newer participants.”
NT Rugby CEO Nathan McDonald said Tri Tag Rugby was already generating plenty of interest in the wake of Gasnier’s visit and the ongoing Wednesday night “come and try” sessions at Rugby Park.
“We’re excited to see what Tri Tag Rugby can bring in regards to growing our community and expanding our player base,” McDonald said.
