Never played rugby? Perfect. On Saturday 24th October we're holding our Touch New Members' Day, a free, beginner-friendly introduction to Touch rugby at our home ground in Mitcham. No experience and no tackling required.

What is Touch?
Touch is a fast, non-contact version of rugby. Instead of tackling, you touch the ball carrier with your hand, and after six touches the ball changes hands. There are no scrums or rucks, just running, passing and teamwork.

Our Touch team is mixed and open to every gender. Women, trans, non-binary, intersex and agender players are warmly welcome, and you play as yourself. Most of us had never played Touch before joining the Stags, so we teach everything from scratch.

Your key dates

• Touch New Members' Day, 24 October: doors open 10:30am, session starts 11:20am.
• First Touch week 1: 31 October
• First Touch week 2: 7 November
• First Touch week 3: 14 November
• First Touch week 4: 21 November

All sessions run at our home ground, Mitcham & Carshalton Rugby Club, Peterborough Road, Carshalton, SM5 1EE. Toilets, showers and changing rooms are available in the clubhouse.

What happens on the day?
You'll rotate through four skills stations led by our captain, vice captain and coach, then play a short, fun game together. You'll be starting alongside a group of first-timers just like you. Afterwards the clubhouse stays open, so you can meet other new members and our experienced players.

What happens at First Touch?
First Touch is our four-week intro programme for new players. Each Saturday builds on the last, so by the end you're ready to play your first match. Along the way you'll learn things like:

• Passing and catching: getting comfortable with the ball, from short pops to longer passes on the run.
• The rollball: how play restarts after a touch, and how to get the ball moving again quickly.
• Defending together: moving up as a line and making clean touches.
• Attacking moves: simple plays and running lines that create space.
• Games every week: each session ends with a game, so you put everything into practice straight away.

Can't make the 24th, or one of the sessions? No problem. We revisit the core skills throughout the programme, so you can join any session you like.

What does it cost?
New Members' Day and all four First Touch sessions are free. After that, we ask you to become a member, and we offer flexible plans so everyone can afford to join.

What do I need to bring?
Just trainers, sports clothes and a water bottle (we run a lot!). If you stick with it, moulded-stud rugby boots help, but there's no rush.

How do I sign up?

• Fill this form with your contact details: Expression of Interest.
• That's it! Our Membership Officer, Ben, will be your main point of contact throughout your trial period.

Questions? Email Ben at membership@thelondonstagsrfc.com or check out the Touch Q&A on our Instagram.

Know someone who'd love it? Tell a friend and come along together. See you on the 24th!