It's rugby but with a difference in the North West

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson last week welcomed the announcement that Australian Rugby Union and the NSW Government have collaborated to expand participation in regional NSW with a new non-contact version of Rugby Sevens known as Non-contact Sevens.

Mr Anderson said the fast-paced game, which can be played by people of all ages, genders and sporting backgrounds, was launched on Wednesday by Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner and ARU CEO Bill Pulver.

Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner said this new version of the game, which is based on Rugby Sevens, the fast paced and all-inclusive Olympic sport, provides local regional communities the opportunity to engage in a high intensity, low impact community sport.

“The NSW Liberals and Nationals government is committed to increasing sporting and cultural opportunities in regional NSW,” Mr Stoner said.

“This new initiative broadens the reach of Rugby into sections of the community that would otherwise not play the sport.

“Once again regional NSW is at the forefront and at the centre of this government’s decision making with Non-contact Sevens to roll out first in Bathurst, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Orange and Tamworth.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the nature of the game means everyone can get involved in a great community sport.

“The rules for Non-contact Sevens are different to any other game currently being played and emphasises fun, social competition,” Mr Anderson said.

ARU CEO Bill Pulver said the new game was designed in response to the changing requirements of Australians who are engaging or looking to engage in sport and recreation.

“Non-contact Sevens has been developed following market research by the ARU and in response to research conducted by the Australian Sports Commission,” Mr Pulver said.

“This highlighted a trend in sports participants wanting to take part in sport and recreation that is flexible and fits around their busy schedule. Non-contact Sevens not only does this, it also provides team camaraderie and a positive experience.

Mr Anderson said  he was really looking forward to seeing my local community get involved in the sport.

The public can register their interest in taking part in non-contact Sevens by visiting: http://www.rugby.com.au/sevens/NonContact