INTERNATIONAL DEBUT-A POSITIVE LESSON

For some of the youth who have taken to the fields in the past three days, the 2005 Youth World Cup has been about much more than just playing touch.

Wednesday marked the international debut of Norfolk Island Touch, and for the Thailand team their first Youth World Cup tournament.

It has been an enormous learning experience for both these teams, who are learning the tactics of the game from the best young players in the world.

Gary Granger, the captain of the Thailand team is very proud to be representing Thailand, even though he is of South African origin.

"I've had so much fun being here and interacting with and learning from the other teams," said Gary.

"Seeing the way the Aussies and the New Zealanders play it's really good touch. It's been great to see the different attitudes towards the game," he said.

The Aussies and the Kiwi's have clearly set the benchmark for quality touch around the world, something the more inexperienced teams can take home with them.

"Their speed, their fitness and the way they talk so much, I get scared just watching them," said Gary.

It has taken a big effort for Thailand touch to bring their mixed team 18's team to the Youth World Cup.

After much fundraising and support from Bangkok Patana and Harlow International Schools, the Thai team of 10 players made it to Australia.

Even the devastating tsunami that claimed thousands of lives did not deter them from representing their country.

"It really is a great time to represent Thailand, after the tsunami to show that we're still being positive and we're still up and running," said Gary.

Gary can also be hailed for his efforts in trying to promote touch around the world. In six months Gary will travel to the USA to encourage touch in universities such as University of Tampa.

"I just love playing touch, so I thought I'd try and get the game up and going over there. It has been helpful coming here and getting as much experience as I can and watching the world's best," said Gary.

The players from Norfolk Island will also be able to take from their experience here.

After much fundraising and sponsorship from Red Eye Sports and Norfolk Jet airline the six Norfolk natives were able to come over and meet with several Brisbane and Sunshine Coast players.

Luckily, the players gelled well and have had a fantastic time, a highlight surely being facing up to the Kiwi's for the Haka.

"It's just unbelievable experience being here," said Norfolk Island Mens 18's Captain Ben Wieczorek.

The experience and professionalism of the Australian and Kiwi teams has been an inspiration to them.

"We have to train a lot harder, and work together more, it's great to see their plays and how touch is really played," said Ben.

For both teams, the honour of playing for their countries has been an uplifting experience and hopefully they will encourage others at home to get involved in Touch.

"It's such an honour to play for Norfolk, it's so special and a feeling you'll never forget," said Ben.

By Lisa Plummer