Today Radio's Sam and Meredith welcomed Joe Lister, one of the organisers of Kick Cancer into Touch, to talk about this year's edition of the long-running charity Touch tournament that is sure to bring an active, fun, and friendly atmosphere to the pitch, all for a good cause.
This September, one of Luxembourg’s longest running charity sporting events returns with a mission that goes far beyond the pitch. Kick Cancer into Touch (KCIT) will host its annual charity Touch day on Sunday, 28th September at the Cessange Stade Boy Konen, inviting the community to come together for fun, friendship, and fundraising.
Founded in 2001 in memory of rugby player Tim Shepard and Jessica Lister, KCIT has raised tens of thousands of euros over the past two decades for local palliative care initiatives, particularly Haus Omega, Luxembourg’s first dedicated palliative care hospice.
Speaking on The Sam Steen Show on Today Radio, Joe Lister, one of the organisers, explained the heart of the event:
“It’s a family charity social day where teams come along, learn a new sport, have a bit of fun, a few drinks, a barbecue, and actually meet new people in the community. The premise is basically getting together and having fun. It’s not competitive, it’s very social. We have kids to OAPs playing, and even parents and kids teaming up.”
KCIT’s impact has been tangible. The funds raised over the years have enabled vital enhancements at Haus Omega, from specialist massage to transformation chairs that improve patient comfort and mobility. This year’s Touch tournament is expected to raise around €2,000, while a charity golf day earlier this summer brought in more than €5,000.
Lister stressed that no prior rugby knowledge is needed:
“The great thing about Touch is it’s very accessible. Whatever your physical ability or fitness level, there’s a position you can play. It’s very simple, catch the ball, run, stop, put the ball down. We’ll find you a place, teach you what to do, and make sure you meet new friends.”
The day is run almost entirely by volunteers, from referees to bakers and bar staff. As Joe joked: “If you don’t want to play, please turn up as well. I’ll get you pouring pints by midday, that’s a guarantee.”
You can listen to Joe Lister on The Sam Steen Show here:
Alongside the games, visitors can expect BBQs, children’s entertainment, a bar, and plenty of opportunities to socialise. Teams and individuals are both welcome, with organisers ready to place newcomers into groups.
Kick Cancer into Touch 2025 – Event Details
Date: Sunday, 28 September 2025
Time: 10am to 4.30pm
Location: Cessange Stade Boy Konen
What to expect: Friendly Touch tournament, BBQ, bar, kids’ activities, tombola, and more
For more information or to register, email kickcancerintotouch@hotmail.com or luxembourgtouch@gmail.com or visit RCL Luxembourg Touch.
With a simple idea of sport, fun, and community spirit, KCIT continues to make a profound difference for patients and families at Haus Omega while proving that grassroots initiatives can change lives.
