A flagship of the national touch football calendar, The Championships, is underway in Coffs Harbour this week – the 14th consecutive year the event has been held in the city.
Following an extensive review process supported by consultation with key stakeholders, the adult championship event has been restructured to better balance participation growth with pathway development, while enhancing the overall experience for both participants and spectators.
“The 2026 Championships is a premier tournament, so it’s fitting to stage this showpiece at our C.ex Coffs International Stadium and the co-located fields at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“Our ability to host this mega-event at a single well-equipped precinct creates a unique and welcoming atmosphere for the athletes, officials, their families, and fans. We also have all the extras for off-field satisfaction, from our beaches and shopping through to major tourist attractions and the full range of accommodation options – it’s no wonder Coffs has become the home of touch football.”
The 2026 event marks a return to a four-day schedule, alongside revised game lengths and updated permission and eligibility rules for teams and players. An external consultant has also been engaged to lead a detailed, independent review of the event, which will help inform its long-term future in an aligned, whole-of-sport approach. Touch Football Australia (TFA) has also led focused groups and conducted interviews with community members, ensuring a robust approach as part of the event’s comprehensive review.
“Coffs Harbour has become synonymous with The Championships, and the event’s return for a 14th consecutive year reflects the strength of our partnership with the region,” TFA Chief Executive Officer Marcus Ashcroft said.
“Our national flagship event will feature a refreshed format this year as part of our ongoing review, and I would like to thank the touch football community for their contributions to the conversation so far.”
Coffs Harbour and the wider region are expected to benefit from a significant $5 million economic boost this week, with the event’s return generating vibrant participation and engagement, welcoming almost 150 teams to the Mid North Coast.
The national event continues to bring together the touch football community, featuring athletes in age divisions from 20s to 65s, and welcoming new entrants, including the Fremantle Rebels from Western Australia and the locally based Macksville Falcons.
An increase to 25 divisions, including an additional All Abilities tier and a new Women’s 55s division, highlights the sustained growth and inclusivity of the sport as TFA’s partnership with the region continues to flourish.
The Championships will run at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium through to Saturday 7 March. Entry is free and spectators are welcome. Fans can also watch the event exclusively live and free on the BarTV website or app.
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