How Stellar Experiences Is Making Oztag Inclusive

by benj | Jun 27, 2025 | Latest News

It’s been four years since Australian Oztag partnered with disability support provider Stellar Experiences to hold a training day ahead of their inaugural season at Sutherland Shire Senior Oztag in Cronulla. What began as a single day of tag has since grown into an ongoing, inspiring initiative, with Stellar now fielding both men’s and mixed teams every season.

Since joining, the response from players and the local Oztag community has been nothing short of outstanding. Every Monday night, players take the field with energy, pride, and genuine passion, not just for the sport, but for the friendships, routine, and confidence it’s helped build.

“We just wanted to give our guests the same opportunity anyone else would have to play a team sport,” says Ryan Willis, Operations Manager at Stellar.
“It’s about health, fitness, community and having fun while doing it.”

In a sporting landscape where truly inclusive teams can be hard to find, Stellar’s commitment stands out. The program has become a key part of many players’ lives, providing physical activity, social connection, and a structured team environment that promotes growth both on and off the field.

Daniel, a passionate player who travels all the way from Campbelltown to play each week, says Oztag has given him confidence and a new sense of belonging.

“My favourite memory is just being with a group of friends that feel like family… and doing the King Gutho try celebration!”

His mother echoed that since joining the team, Daniel has made friends, come out of his shell, and become more confident in himself.

James, another guest who only started playing in April, said he’s “loved every second of it.” It’s not just the players who are inspired but those watching from the sidelines have felt the impact, too.

“I think it’s really good to get people with disabilities out there and playing sports,” James shared. “Seeing these guys play its a good feeling and really inspiring.” 

Week in and week out, the enthusiasm is contagious. Players are pumped before every game, and the competition is one of the friendliest in the league. Other teams have embraced the initiative with open arms, creating an environment of encouragement and respect.

Tahlia, a Stellar employee who usually plays with her own friends, has been blown away by the team spirit on display:

“Honestly, I love this so much more. There’s so much teamwork. Everyone is so passionate and positive every single game. Everyone gives it their all and supports each other no matter what.”

And it’s not just about having fun. Since starting, the players’ skills have noticeably improved. According to Ryan, in the early days, players were often focused on scoring individually.

“Now, they’re spreading the ball wide, setting up team tries, and playing with real structure. The teamwork is incredible.”

That improvement in gameplay has mirrored something even more important, personal growth.

“We’ve seen players become more confident, not just as part of a team, but as people,” Ryan says.

Stellar’s Oztag journey is a powerful reminder that inclusion isn’t just about opening the door it’s about creating space where everyone belongs, grows, and thrives. Australian Oztag is proud to support and highlight this initiative and looks forward to seeing it continue to grow. You can see more impact Stellar is having on the community outside of Oztag on their socials.

Update to Selection Criteria for the 2026 Tag World Cup

by benj | May 30, 2025 | Latest News

Australian Oztag is pleased to announce a key update to the Selection Criteria for the 2025 National Championships, which will directly impact eligibility for the 2026 Tag World Cup to be held in Coffs Harbour.

This decision follows the inaugural meeting of the newly formed Australian Oztag Coaching Advisory Committee (AOCAC)

Introducing the AOCAC

AOCAC was established to provide guidance and advice on matters relating to the game, particularly in the areas of coaching and development, pathway structures, coaching accreditation, and both player and coaching selection processes.

The AOCAC is chaired by Australian Oztag’s Director of Coaching and Pathways, Michael Buettner, and includes some of Oztag’s most experienced coaches, administrators and players: Gary Kinkade, Jarrod Mostowik, Amy Spence, Scot Holmes, Jeff Coroneos, and Tagaroos Opens Captains Brendan Martin and Chelsea Cryer.

What’s Changing?

Under the previous policy, players could only be selected in the division they trialled and played in at Nationals. However, effective immediately, players competing in the Opens divisions (Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed) will now be permitted to apply for consideration for selection in an alternative age-based division (e.g. 20s or Seniors), provided they meet the age eligibility requirements.

This change applies only to players in the Opens divisions. For all other divisions, the original rule remains in place: you are eligible for representative selection only in the division in which you played at Nationals.

Why the Change?

According to Michael Buettner:

“This is a real positive for our game. It allows players to represent their Association at the highest level while still giving them the opportunity to be considered for selection in their age division at both NSW and Australian levels.”

This decision particularly supports players eligible for 20s divisions who choose to compete in the Opens, recognising the growing standard and competitiveness of the 20s categories.

“The standard of the 20s divisions has improved dramatically in recent years and they are definitely closing the gap with the Opens,” Buettner added.

What This Means for 2025 Senior Nationals

Players who are yet to trial for their Association’s 2025 Senior Nationals team can now trial in the Opens division without limiting their eligibility for Australian or NSW teams in their correct age division for the 2026 World Cup.

With record international interest and participation expected at the International Tag Series this August, Coffs Harbour is on track to host the biggest Tag World Cup in the sport’s history.

Please see an exert from the Tagaroos 2026 World Cup Selection Policy and Guidelines relating to this Amendment.

Selection Criteria

7.1 Players can only be selected in the division in which they compete at the 2025 Senior National Championships. There are two exceptions to this Policy:

7.2 All players competing in Open divisions (Men’s, Women’s and Mixed) who are eligible for other Divisions (age wise) can request CONSIDERATION for selection in the alternative division by contacting the AOCD (mick@oztag.com.au) and requesting consideration for the alternative division. Failure to request CONSIDERATION for the alternative division will see the player only be able to be selected in the division in which they are competing in at the 2025 Senior National Championships.

7.3 If the players Association does not have a team competing in the division in which you wish to be considered for selection in. Players have the opportunity to join the Players Pool or play for their Association in another division and request DISPENSATION by contacting the AOCD (mick@oztag.com.au) and requesting consideration for the alternative division.

7.4 Qualification for the 2026 ITF World Cup will be based on your eligibility at the 2025 Senior National Championships. In other words, if you are eligible for a division at the 2025 Senior Nationals then this qualifies you for this division at the 2026 ITF World Cup.

7.5 Please note that players wishing to be considered for Selection in any Mixed Teams must be competing in a Mixed Division at the 2025 Senior National Championships. Alternatively, any player wishing to be considered for Selection in a Men’s or Women’s Team must be competing in a Men’s or Women’s Division at the 2025 Senior National Championships. Dispensation and or Consideration will only be considered for Players not playing in the correct Division as mentioned above if the players particular Region does not have a team competing in this Division or there are other reasons as to why the player cannot play in their preferred division. An email requesting Dispensation and or Consideration will need to be sent to mick@oztag.com.au for approval.

We believe this change reflects what’s in the best interest of both the players and the game. It supports individual development, recognises the evolving competitive landscape of our divisions, and ensures that our national teams are selected from the strongest and most deserving talent available. We thank all Associations and players for their continued commitment to the sport, and we look forward to an exciting Nationals and World Cup ahead.

Australian Oztag Announces Exciting Changes to Referee Development

by benj | Apr 29, 2025 | Latest News

Australian Oztag is pleased to announce a major restructure in our referee development program, a key pillar in maintaining Oztag’s position as the Number 1 tag sport in Australia and across the globe.

Referees are the backbone of our game, and ensuring we deliver world-class officiating at every level is central to the ongoing growth and success of our sport. With this in mind, Australian Oztag and the International Tag Federation (ITF) have been working hard to deliver targeted development programs both domestically and internationally.

Growing the Game Internationally

As showcased across our social media channels, recent months have seen Australian Oztag and the ITF running development clinics across the Pacific region. These clinics are part of a broader strategic plan to expand the number of Oztag-playing nations and strengthen the global footprint of the sport.

Development clinics have already been successfully hosted in Fiji and Japan, where local communities enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to learn and develop their officiating skills. This exciting program is only just beginning, 2025 will see further clinics scheduled in Samoa, Sri Lanka, India, and return visits to Fiji and Japan. These initiatives are crucial as we build toward the highly anticipated 2026 Tag World Cup. Stay tuned to our socials for more updates on these clinics.

New Leadership to Drive Referee Development

Australian Oztag is proud to announce that Ricky O’Connor has accepted the role of International Referee Development Officer for both Australian Oztag and the International Tag Federation for Australasia. Ricky’s wealth of experience and passion for referee education will be invaluable as he works to ensure that referees across emerging Pacific countries receive consistent training on the rules, interpretations, and standards of our game.

Ricky has already established strong ties with several Pacific nations and will continue to play a critical role in lifting the standard of officiating as the sport expands internationally.

Closer to home, Ray Dent has graciously accepted the invitation to step into the role of Australian Oztag’s Referee Director for Tournaments. Ray brings with him a proven track record of success from Queensland, where he introduced a number of initiatives that have been instrumental in referee development. His tournament experience, leadership, and vision for the future will be tremendous assets as Australian Oztag continues to enhance the referee pathway nationally. We warmly welcome Ray to this new role and look forward to seeing his impact across future events.

Supporting and Recognising Our Referees

Australian Oztag remains firmly committed to showcasing and rewarding the efforts of our referees. As part of this commitment, new rewards programs have been introduced to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and professionalism that our referees consistently bring to the game.

In addition, there will be increased opportunities for referees to be involved in international development work, including placements at clinics and tournaments in emerging Oztag nations. These opportunities not only offer invaluable experience but also highlight the critical role Australian referees are playing in shaping the future of the sport globally.

With these changes, Australian Oztag is taking bold steps to ensure our referees remain at the forefront of the game — both here at home and on the international stage. We are excited about the future and grateful to Ricky, Ray, and the entire referee community for their ongoing passion and dedication.

Stay tuned to our channels for more updates on referee development opportunities and international clinics as we head towards the massive ITF 5th World Cup!

The 2025 Oztag Interstate Series

by benj | Apr 3, 2025 | Latest News

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated tournaments of the year – the 2025 Interstate Series! This year’s event will take place at C.ex International Stadium in Coffs Harbour, where the best players from New South Wales and Queensland will go head-to-head for state supremacy.

New Schedule for a Bigger & Better Atmosphere

To enhance the tournament experience, the Interstate Series will now run on Friday and Saturday instead of the traditional Saturday-Sunday schedule. This change is expected to create a more energetic and competitive atmosphere throughout the event.

• Friday (September 19): The tournament kicks off with the official opening at 4:00 PM, followed by an evening of high-intensity matches. The first games begin at 5:00 PM, with the final match of the night starting at 7:30 PM.
• Saturday (September 20): A full day of State vs State battles, concluding with the closing ceremony, championship presentations, and MVP awards at C.ex Stadium. The bar will be kept open afterwards, so players and spectators are encouraged to stay and celebrate.

Interstate Rivalry Continues – Now with Mixed 20s!

An exciting addition to this year’s tournament is the introduction of the Mixed 20s division! After an unforgettable drop-off grand final between Penrith and St George at the NSW Senior State Cup, NSW will be entering a stacked side into the competition. Queensland will also be assembling a strong squad, with their team to be announced following their Senior State Cup in late June.

Stay tuned to NSW and QLD Oztag social pages for official team selections!

Can’t Make It to Coffs Harbour? Watch It Live!

After the success of last year’s broadcast, we’re excited to once again bring the action straight to you. If you’re unable to make the trip to C.ex Stadium, you can still catch every moment! All Field 1 games will be live-streamed on Kayo Freebies, allowing fans to follow their friends or family from anywhere in Australia

Enjoy the Tournament Experience – On and Off the Field

The Interstate Series isn’t just about what happens on the field—it’s also a fantastic event for players and spectators to enjoy. This year, the stadium will feature:

• On-site physios to provide rub-downs and pre-game strapping.
• A fully stocked bar, open for spectators and players to enjoy while watching the action.
• Food trucks serving up great meals throughout the event.
• An official team photo area where ibimages will be their to capture memories with teammates.

A Huge Thanks to Our Sponsors

Proudly supported by nib, GSA, and Zambrero, whose ongoing commitment helps make this tournament possible. Their support ensures that players can compete at their best while enjoying a top-tier event experience.

The 2025 Interstate Series is set to be an unmissable event filled with elite competition, fierce rivalries, and incredible moments. Be sure to follow our social media channels for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content as we count down to kick-off!

Key Tournament Dates for 2026

by benj | Mar 6, 2025 | Latest News

Oztag in 2026 is shaping up to be another massive year, with the top players competing for state, national and international glory. Here are the key tournament dates to mark in your calendar.

Queensland Junior State Cup – January 30 – February 1. Sunshine Coast Stadium Bokarina, 31 Sportsmans Parade Bokarina QLD 4575

NSW Junior State Cup (9-11s) – February 6-8. The Kingsway, St Marys NSW 2760

NSW Junior State Cup (12-17s) – February 20-22. C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Queensland Senior State Cup – March 6-8. Sunshine Coast Stadium Bokarina, 31 Sportsmans Parade Bokarina QLD 4575

NSW Senior State Cup – March 20-22. C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Interstate Series – September 19-20. C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

ITF 5th World Cup – October 15-18. C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Junior Australian Championships – October 30 – November 1. C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Senior Australian Championships – November 13-15. C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Stadium Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

With state, national and international competitions on the horizon 2026 promises to deliver high-quality Oztag action. Stay tuned for updates, team previews, and tournament coverage. Follow us on social media for all the latest news and announcements!