Oztag...Give it a 'try'!

Ever heard of touch football? Well Oztag is similar that, but with tags.

Oztag is a sport played Australia wide, with somewhat simple rules that anyone can learn and enjoy. So, if you're interested in playing this thrilling and speedy sport, read on, because I'm going to give you everything you need to know to become a star on the field.

The objective of the game is to ground the ball past the opposing team's try line, exactly like touch football. Now to do this, you would have to run, pass or kick the ball to your team members in order to move further downfield. Of course, while you're doing so, your opponent's aim is to 'tag' the ball carrier and prevent your team's advancement. When in possession of the ball, your team will be allowed six 'tags' or 'plays'. If you do not score or kick the ball before your last play finishes, there will be a changeover. This means the attacking team becomes the defenders and vice versa.

Here are some additional terms and meanings that you might not find in a touch football rule book.

Tag - When the ball carrier is tagged.

Late Tag - When the ball carrier is tagged after they've already kicked or passed the ball.

Pre Tag - When a player is tagged before they've received the ball.

Dummy-half - A player who takes the position behind the ball player during the 'play-the-ball'.

Obstruction - Preventing defenders from tagging the ball carrier.


Alrighty, now that I've let you know the basic game play of Oztag, go ahead and give it a 'try' yourself! Play this sport competitively or even socially with family and friends and see why Australian's love it. Men, women, children; anyone can play it!

Also be sure to look out for more posts on Oztag and other popular sports played in Australia.

Ta