The New South Wales Touch Association’s Junior State Cup has become the largest and most challenging event the organisation delivers. Throughout its 22-year history, we have seen it grow from 110 teams through to its current peak of 357. As a sport, we can be incredibly proud of the success of this tournament. However, as many of you can appreciate, the growth of the event has created enormous logistical challenges. We are now reaching the point of capacity regarding venue, logistics, delivery and resources. If current growth trends continue, we will exceed capacity by the 2018 event. Further to this, in the history of the NSWTA Junior State Cup, its location has had a significant impact on the participation of regional NSWTA affiliates. Before 2013 when the event was in the south of the State we were attracting an additional 11 affiliates (Albion Park, Berry, Coolamon, Gerringong, Goulburn, Griffith, Kiama, Leeton, Milton Ulladulla, Moruya and Temora). These affiliates no longer participate, in part due to the barriers of travel and distance. Looking at those affiliates with their best attendances between 2010-2012, this equates to 46 teams. On the flipside, we now have another 12 affiliates (Armidale, Ballina, Camden Haven, Gunnedah, Inverell, Lismore, Macksville, Maitland, Murwillumbah, Narrabri, Scone and Yamba) that attend. These affiliates previously did not take part when the event was held in Wollongong. Their attendance equates to 57 teams at their affiliates best attendance between 2013-2017. What we are now seeing is continued growth (teams) in the event and many affiliates wanting to bring second teams. However, arguably it has come with a large disconnect of southern NSW. With this information and statistical support of the current event climate, the Board has been discussing what the future of the Junior State Cup will look like. NSWTA STATE CUP FUTURE JUNIOR 10 | Keeping In Touch 2016 IMG002_NSWTouch_Dec17_v3_FILM_R.indd 10 28/11/17 4:21 pm