Local optician has eye on prize ahead of Touch Rugby World Cup

Henry Evans, optician and director at Stephen Evans Optometrists, will swap his optical practice for rugby tactics on September 15.^e July during the Touch Rugby World Cup, organised by the Federation of International Touch (FIT).

Following Wales’ test matches for the 2023 World Cup, Henry was selected to represent the Welsh men’s under-30s squad, playing at centre forward during the six-day tournament which took place at the University of Nottingham.

Henry spoke about his passion for rugby and said: “As a former Rugby Union player it took a bit of getting used to playing Touch Rugby at my local club. However, it is a fast growing sport that is becoming increasingly popular and I have really enjoyed the fast pace, high skill mentality and team spirit of the game over the last 2-3 years.”

This year marks the first Touch World Cup since the 2019 event in Putrajaya, Malaysia. 120 teams from around the world competed in 11 divisions for the coveted winners’ medals. Australia retained its overall title as world champions, with the remaining medals shared by New Zealand, Japan, Scotland, England, France, Cook Islands, South Africa and Singapore.

Henry added: “I am very excited about the upcoming tournament. It is a huge honour to represent Wales as a community that I have lived in and helped patients in. It will be a very proud moment for me.”

While the nerves haven’t completely subsided, Henry says he’s staying calm by focusing on his training and routines.

Colleagues at Stephen Evans Optometrists also closely monitor Henry and his team’s progress as sponsors of Henry’s sporting activities.