Even if you have never played touch footy before you will pick up the rules really quickly once you get playing.The aim of the game is to score more tries than your opponent by placing the ball down in the touchdown zone.Here are 5 basic touch footy rules to get your ready for the new season...

1) Pass the ball backwards

When your team is attacking you must pass the ball backwards. Make sure your teammate is behind you when you pass the ball otherwise it will be ruled a forward pass and the opposition will get the ball.

2) Make a touch

To stop the attacking team from moving forward up the field you need to touch the ball carrier. This can be done on any part of the body, including the ball or clothing. A touch can also be initiated by the ball carrier on the defensive player.

3) Play the ball

The ball carrier has to perform a 'roll ball' on the exact mark where the touch was made. Be careful not to walk 'over the mark' when performing a roll ball as it will be a penalty and the opposition will get the ball.

4) Dummy Half

The person who picks up the ball from the roll ball is called the 'Dummy Half'. If you get touched with the ball it will be an immediate changeover. It's best to pass it straight away to avoid this happening.

5) Offside

After making a touch you must get back in line with the referee. This is approximately five metres away from where the touch was made. If you don't make it back onside, the referee will call you offside and the opposition will get a penalty.There you go! Leave a comment if you have any questions about the rules :)

Read about 5 benefits of playing touch footy here!