Touch ‘family’ reunites for national comp

Teams from all states and territories, as well as a contingent of New Zealanders, competed in the Defence National Touch Football Championships (DEFNATS) at Gallipoli Barracks from September 14 to 19.

ADF Touch Association Vice President Flt-Lt Ethan Phipps, who is also one of the association’s referees, said the tournament was the association’s premier event.

“It's where we select our teams that go into our civilian national events, such as the Queensland State Cup, the New South Wales State Cup, and ultimately the National Championships in Coffs Harbour,” Flt-Lt Phipps said.

He said for many Defence members, ADF Sports provided professional development and exposure to different styles of leadership.

“As a referee, I’ve developed my communication skills and social mastery – you learn how to deal with different personalities in the heat of the moment. When it's all on the line, you have to remain calm,” Flt-Lt Phipps said.

Cpl David Stewart, regional manager for North Queensland, said he started playing touch footy in 2019, the year after he joined Army.

“I already knew about touch footy previously because my dad has been around the sport a long time as a referee,” Cpl Stewart said.

“It’s definitely improved my leadership skills,” he said. 

“Just being able to put my own thought process into doing specific things and then making those things happen – I think it's been a huge benefit to my career.

“I've already put my hand up this year to go away as the women's open team manager for the Queensland State Cup this year, and that is going to be one of the big highlights of my ADF career.”

Cpl Stewart has also been elected assistant director of DEFNATS.

Flt-Lt Phipps said his favourite part of ADF Touch Football was the community.

“We have a lot of great people involved in ADF football, and you get to see them once or twice a year, depending on the carnivals you can go to,” he said.

Cpl Stewart said he had gained a lot of friends from it.

“It's honestly the number one thing I look forward to every year,” Cpl Stewart said.

“You come away, play footy, which I love playing, and get to meet other people.” 

Flt-Lt Phipps said it was a big family.

“We have over 300 people come every year, and it's great to catch up with people across every trade, service and rank in the Defence Force,” Flt-Lt Phipps said.

For more information on how to join a team, or just attend a training session, contact defence.sports@defence.gov.au