LURING kids to the sporting field has never been harder.

Not only is this generation being increasingly seduced by high-tech computer games, but there are now dozens more sports competing for their patronage.

With this in mind, Griffith Touch Association, with the help of NSW Touch, has launched a Schools Junior Touch Gala Day to introduce children to the magic of the game.

The third such event was held last Wednesday at Collina, attracting more than 600 eager kids from a host of local schools.

Participation ? not competition ? was the philosophy behind the event, according to Karren Strachan from Griffith Touch.

"Numbers have dropped off a bit from our Tuesday night junior comp because there are just so many options for them now," Strachan said.

"This day was really about introducing the sport to new players and hopefully they liked it and will form a competition team.

"Touch is an easy game for them to play. It's healthy, and it's a chance for them to get outside and run around."

While the event was a round robin, the focus was on fun and learning, not scoring.

Each player received a participation certificate at the end of the day.