While the 2009 season has only just come to its conclusion, the Vodacom Stormers and Vodacom WP squads for the 2010 Super 14 and Vodacom Cup competitions respectively are already back at work in preparation for the new season. The boys were given a bit of break on Friday, when they all got the chance to participate in a touch tournament at the High Performance Centre in Bellville.

The teams were made up of 6 or 7 players each with a spread of forwards, backs and members of the management team. Six-touch rules applied with games comprising of 15 minutes each. Each team played in a round robin stage before the top teams qualified for the knockout stage.

Despite the fun nature of the day, the tournament was played at a high speed with everyone giving their all. Some of the stars on the day included Sireli Naqelevuki and Gio Aplon, who with their experience on the IRB Sevens Series made their team The Dolphins a formidable prospect for the opposition. The tournament also gave the fans who attended their first glimpse of newboys Fabian Juries and Lionel Cronje who join Vodacom WP for the 2010 season. Keeping everyone on their toes was MC Morgan Newman who entertained the crowd with his colourful commentary.

After a tightly fought tournament the Dolphins faced up to defense coach Jacques Niebaber Raider´s team comprising of U20 SA prop Ruan Smith, George Earl, Yaya Hartzenberg, Paul Bosch and new Springbok Juan de Jongh in the final. Despite their best efforts, the Raiders could not handle the firepower of Sireli and Gio as the Dolphins claimed the 2009 WP/Stormers Touch Rugby tournament. Congratulations to the 2 wingers as well as their teammates captain Denzil Riddels, Anton Van Zyl, Duane Vermeulen and Greg Hechter.

Having given their all throughout the tournament, the players were rewarded with a braai lunch and a few cold ones. The day was enjoyed by all and will hopefully become a regular part of the Vodacom Stormers season.