"Tag instead of tackle, we became one!" 26 teams and 200 participants join the Youth Sports Festival Tag Rugby Tournament

*This content was translated by AI.

The '2026 Youth Sports Festival Tag Rugby Tournament,' where student athletes and general students shared values of perseverance and cooperation on the field, closed amid enthusiastic response from participants.

The 2026 Youth Sports Festival was organized by the Korean Olympic Committee and hosted by the Korea Rugby Union, with financial support from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the National Sports Promotion Foundation, held at Euiji Field (Rugby Stadium), Seoul Military Academy.

This tournament was planned to expand rugby's reach and revitalize school sports programs. Unlike traditional rugby, which involves intense physical collisions, tag rugby — where players remove tags attached to opponents' waists — significantly reduces injury risks. As a result, even students new to rugby could participate without hesitation, successfully scoring tries and fully enjoying the fun of the sport.

This year's tournament expanded participation age groups and sub-categories, with 26 teams and over 200 students competing. Notably, all matches were conducted in a round-robin format by category, ensuring every student gained sufficient real-game experience and memorable moments regardless of win or loss.

After fierce competition in each category, winning teams were determined. In the boys' division for elementary school students under 12 (U-12), 'Lee Seo-chan and the Kids' (3 wins) showcased powerful performance to claim first place. In the mixed-gender division, 'Jeju Rugby Club' (2 wins, 1 draw) topped the standings with an undefeated record.

In the boys' division for middle school students under 15 (U-15), six teams competed; 'Tag Storm' (5 wins) secured the championship with a perfect record. In the mixed-gender division, 'Tag Thieves' (3 wins) achieved first place with cohesive gameplay. For high school students under 18 (U-18), 'Siheung G' (3 wins) in the boys' division, 'Victoria's' (3 wins) in the mixed-gender division, and 'Victoria's' (2 wins, 1 loss) in the girls' division each claimed top honors in their respective categories.

Players from KEPCO Corporation's professional rugby team participated at the event, operating a try-experience booth to directly interact with student participants. The athletes addressed students' questions about rugby and match-related concerns while holding autograph sessions, creating special memories for the students.

Through opportunities to converse directly with national-level athletes and experience rugby up close, student participants' interest and engagement levels were significantly enhanced.

Meanwhile, a 19-year-old student served as an official referee during the tournament, managing game flow and making calls while gaining on-site experience. Notably, a student who had previously participated as a player last year returned this year as a referee, drawing attention for stepping onto the field in a new role.

Building on their prior experience as players, they understood game dynamics, made direct rulings, and experienced rugby from a different perspective alongside athletes.

The fact that students participated not only as players but also in diverse roles such as referees demonstrated the true spirit of the Youth Sports Festival — creating a 'celebration for students' by offering broad opportunities to experience and grow through rugby.

To accommodate participants from across the country, the Korea Rugby Union provided regional bus support, meals, and commemorative T-shirts for all teams, along with gifts for every participating team. During halftime breaks, various side events including sports taping experiences, physical fitness assessments, and eco-friendly culture booths were operated, creating a festive atmosphere enjoyed by both athletes and parents.

The association stated, "Through the sight of student athletes and general students sweating together beyond win or loss, we confirmed rugby's educational value and spirit of consideration." They added, "Moving forward, we will continue to innovate and support efforts so that youth can easily access and enjoy rugby in their daily lives."

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*This content was translated by AI.