The inaugural Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup (APOTC) has wrapped up in Mudgee, Australia, leaving behind a powerful legacy of competition, connection, and regional pride.
Over four days, Mudgee transformed into the heart of Touch Football in the Asia Pacific, welcoming 13 countries and more than 25 teams across three divisions. The atmosphere was electric, with elite athletes, officials, and supporters coming together to celebrate the sport at its highest level.
At the heart of the tournament’s delivery, 35 elite match officials from across Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia ensured the tournament was delivered with professionalism and integrity. Among them, five referees Kim Skelly, Alec Clark, Thomas Webster, Cambell Muir, and Lachlan Freshwater marked an extraordinary milestone, celebrating 50 international matches each, a testament to their dedication to the game.
From the first whistle to the final, the competition delivered world class performances. Australia and New Zealand once again demonstrated their dominance, while emerging nations showcased the growing depth of talent across the region.
Final Standings
Mixed Open Division
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Philippines
- Samoa
- Tonga
Men’s Open Division
- New Zealand
- Australia
- Lebanon
- Cook Islands
- Samoa
Women’s Open Division
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Samoa
- Singapore
- Hong Kong China
Beyond the field, the tournament carried deep cultural significance. Held alongside ANZAC Day, teams from across the region marched through the streets of Mudgee in a moving show of respect and unity. The Australian Defence Force hosted a commemorative service at Glen Willow Sports Complex, setting the stage for the Trans-Tasman clashes between Australia and New Zealand, where Australia secured a clean sweep across all three divisions in the Trans-Tasman Cup.
“The facilities in Mudgee were exceptional, and the support from the Mid-Western Regional Council and local community was outstanding. It was a fantastic competition, providing valuable opportunities for the local community to engage with some of the world’s best players,” said Chris Simon, Chief Operating Officer of the Federation of International Touch.
For Federation of International Touch Chair Peter Topp, the event represented more than just competition. “We’ve brought together some of the best officials from across the region, and the turnout over the four day tournament has been outstanding. It has provided a valuable platform for FIT to continue growing the sport at an international level.”
The success of the tournament reflects a broader vision to expand the global footprint of Touch Football. As noted by Ralph Viane, Oceania Commission Lead of the Federation of International Touch, “It’s exciting to see the Federation of International Touch driving more international fixtures across Oceania and Asia. Initiatives like this are key to growing the game, creating more opportunities for players and officials, and building a stronger global Touch Football community.”
More than just a tournament, the APOTC was a celebration of culture, integrity, and unity. It brought together nations, communities, and generations, on and off the field.
The Federation of International Touch extends its sincere appreciation to all participating NTOs, sponsors, and volunteers. Special thanks are also extended to Touch Football Australia, the Mid Western Regional Council, and the team at Glen Willow Sports Complex for their exceptional support and delivery of the event.
As the curtain closes on a memorable inaugural tournament, the focus now shifts to the next chapter: the Asia Pacific Seniors Touch Cup, set to take place in Japan from 8 to 10 October 2026.
