Touch Rugby League finds a home in Pocklington!
- sharonshortle
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
A newly formed Touch Rugby League club is starting to make headlines due to its rapid growth in a matter of months!
Pocklington, just 13 miles from York, is now home to a thriving Touch Rugby League community, thanks to the passion and dedication of former York Knights player, Jack Stearman and a growing group of locals who simply wanted to give it a go.
The town with no traditional ties to rugby league is making big waves. The York RLFC Foundation is aiming to continue to support the success and achievements made by the newly formed Touch Rugby League Club, while also expanding the sport further.
Jack’ Stearman's Rugby League journey spans playing for New Earswick All Blacks, Hunslet U18s, York Knights, Newcastle Thunder, and representative honours for Scotland. He is also a former employee of York City Knights Foundation in a development role.
After a serious elbow injury ended his semi-pro career, Jack returned to New Earswick, where he coached for seven years and served as club chairman for four. Family life took Jack to Pocklington, a town he quickly fell in love with for its friendly, close-knit community.
Inspired by a conversation with Jamie Walker, a teacher at York High School, and after contacting York RLFC Foundation, Jack decided to test the waters with a Touch Rugby League taster session. The response saw an initial 24 people turn up; a clear sign that something special was starting.
From April to July, Pocklington Touch ran weekly sessions and due to growing demand they are now looking to extend into the winter months. Pocklington Football Club has been instrumental, opening its doors every Wednesday, providing food and even hosting end of season celebrations.
Despite early challenges around availability and costings with facilities, the club has grown from an initial goal of 12 weekly players to averaging 20–24, with over 50 players involved to date. The community spirit is something Jack and Jamie never could have imagined, and the club’s inclusive, no-pressure environment is a major draw.
David Walker is a lifelong rugby league fan who joined after seeing a Facebook post. David comes back every week for the laughs, the exercise, and the judgment-free atmosphere. “It’s something to look forward to every week,” he said.
Ty Jessop is a new father with two kids. Ty found Touch Rugby League to be the perfect escape from the daily grind. “I wasn’t doing any other sports until Pock Touch. It’s social, fun, and fits into my life.”
Pocklington Touch have received backing and support from the RFL Development Team and have formed a close working partnership with York RLFC Foundation, including a recent visit from Head of Rugby, Andrew Henderson and the 2024 Betfred Women’s Super League trophy (York Valkyrie) & AB Sundecks 1895 Cup trophy (York Knights).
Dawn Shore, Inclusion Officer for York RLFC Foundation, who has been assisting with the project from the Foundation commented:
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Pocklington Touch Rugby League.
"As part of this partnership, we held a Touch Rugby League festival pre-game to the home game against Oldham, with 3 teams from Pocklington attending! We look forward to supporting the growth of this club in the future."
Volunteer photographer Andy Nelson, who is also a volunteer with York RLFC, has become a beloved part of the Pocklington Touch Rugby media team, capturing the energy and joy of each session.
His photos have added immense value to the club’s identity and community presence on Pocklington Touch social media platforms.
Whether you're a former player, coach, or someone who's never picked up a rugby league ball, Touch Rugby League is for everyone. It’s low-contact, inclusive and perfect for socialising, staying active, and building community. Touch rugby league is quick to learn and a great way to stay fit whilst making new friends.
We are encourage individuals to get in touch and express their interest in playing!
If you have any queries regarding York RLFC Foundation or Touch Rugby League in York, please contact inclusion@yorkrlfc.com.
Or if you have any questions regarding Pocklington Touch Rugby League or would like to join the club, please visit:
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