The Beach Touch Games was in action during the second week of the Beach Games 2025 at the Nikao Beach Courts this week, showcasing a mix of young and seasoned talent across eight teams competing in the Mixed category tournament.

Pool A featured teams Brew Crew, JMUT, Nukz Power and Outlaws, while Pool B included teams AreTanu, Beach Bums, Last Minute and Maybe I Don’t Know.

The tournament tapped off on Tuesday with an exciting lineup of round-robin games. The action continued on Wednesday, concluding in the final round-robin matches.

Outlaws and Nukz Power were the top two teams in Pool A, while Maybe I Don’t Know and Beach Bums led Pool B.

In the first semi-final crossover, Outlaws went up against Beach Bums and claimed a victory to secure their place in the gold medal match. Meanwhile, Maybe I Don’t Know took on Nukz Power in a thrilling nail-biting win to also book their spot in the final.

Members of Team Beach Bums and Team Nukz Power. COOK ISLANDS TOUCH/25011710

In the bronze medal match, Beach Bums edged out Nukz Power in a thrilling 13-12 victory. The Beach Bums showcased exceptional talent, led by standout performances from rising stars Taianu Williams, Zarrian Heather-Rau and Lafala Mapu, who were guided by their teammates and touch veterans Geoffrey Halston and Apii Rau.

Nukz Power, featuring a pool of skilled young players, demonstrated remarkable leadership and determination throughout the whole tournament. Outstanding performances came from Aiga Samania, Jordan Ngatoko and Akirata Short, who left an impression on the finals stage.

The gold medal match saw Maybe I Don’t Know face off against the 2024 defending champions, Outlaws.

The game featured thrilling duo dynamics, with standout performances from brothers Stanley and TK Tutai, as well as Viiga Reupena and Paul Ngaroi of Maybe I Don’t Know.

For the Outlaws, Maihanarei Short delivered a stellar performance on the wing, scoring spectacular tries to keep her team in the lead.

Meanwhile, Oscar Wichman and the dynamic brother duo of Tamaiva and Toru Mateariki worked tirelessly to defend their try line.

The Outlaws were crowned the champions of the 2025 Beach Touch Games with a final score of 27-14.

The Beach Games was an awesome start for the Cook Islands Touch Association (CITA) calendar year.

CITA extends its gratitude to Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) for once again including Beach Touch in this year’s games, as well as to their wonderful staff for their invaluable support.

Looking ahead, CITA president Vou Williams has announced the start of the annual Touch Season next month, promising more thrilling action and exceptional talent on the 7-metre.

Stay tuned for updates on the CITA Facebook Page and here’s to an exciting year ahead.

• CITA