On 6 May 2017, Hong Kong Touch Association hosted the 12th ANZ International Touch Championship, at King's Park Sports Ground, Ho Man Tin.

Six International teams from Japan, China, Chinese Taipei, Philippines, and UAE, alongside with the best teams from Hong Kong’s touch community, competed in both Men’s and Mixed Cup divisions. For the Men's division, it was the familiar foes from Hong Kong; with T8 beating defending champion Thunder Men 8-4, while Blossom Mixed from Japan beat the host and last year’s 1st Runners up Buccaneer 7-5, to take home the Mixed Division Cup. Congratulations to Josh Burrow from T8 and Tomu Murakami from Blossoms Mixed for their incredible performances during the tournament as they were named MVP for their respective divisions.

Apart from the exciting competition of both Men’s and Mixed Divisions, an inaugural International Test Match between Hong Kong and Japan Mixed teams added extra excitement to the Championship this year. A fantastic display of top quality international touch rugby saw the hometown heroes scraped through a tight 7-6 victory over Japan.

Three Hong Kong local Touch referees; Peter FAN (Level 5), Kenny YIP (Level 4) and Kam Yiu NG (Level 3) was appointed for the first time to officiate the International Touch Championship. These appointments show recognition for the hard work and dedication that goes on behind the scenes of local development.

Apart from the championship, over 100 coaches and referees got certified during the week by International coaching and referee panel of the Federations of International Touch, solidifying the foundation of touch rugby in Hong Kong.

The success of the week would not be possible without the involvement of the FIT representatives. Special thanks to Peter McNeven, Chairman of the FIT Coaching Commission, Anne Goh, FIT Panel Member of Coaching Commission, Peter Topp, FIT Director of Sport Development and Chris Dolahenty, FIT Referee Commission Member, for their valuable input throughout their time in Hong Kong.