Henry Evans, Dispensing Optician and Director at Stephen Evans Optometrists, will be swapping optical practice for rugby tactics on 15th July in the Touch Rugby World Cup, organised by the Federation of Internation Touch (FIT).
Following the Welsh trials for the World Cup at the end of 2023, Henry was chosen to represent the Wales Men’s 30s group playing in middle position through the 6 days long tournament taking place at the University of Nottingham.
Henry spoke about his passion for rugby, stating: “As an ex-Rugby Union player, joining my local club to play Touch Rugby was a bit of an adjustment. However, it is a rapidly growing sport that is rising in popularity and I’ve really enjoyed the fast paced nature, high skilled mindset and team spirit of the game over the past 2 to 3 years.”
This year marks the first Touch World Cup since 2019’s event in Putrajaya, Malaysia. 120 teams worldwide competed across 11 divisions for the prized winners’ medals with Australia upholding their overall title as world champion nation and further medals shared between New Zealand, Japan, Scotland, England, France, Cook Islands, South Africa and Singapore.
Henry added: “I’m really excited about the upcoming tournament. It’s a huge honour to be able to represent Wales as a community that I’ve lived in and also served patients within. It will be quite a proud moment for me.”
While the nerves haven’t quite yet sunk in, Henry states that he maintains his cool by focusing on his training and routines.
Fellow colleagues at Stephen Evans Optometrists are also keeping a keen eye on Henry and his team’s progress as sponsors for Henry in his sporting endeavours.
