St Joseph’s College hosted another outstanding National Schools Rugby Festival this October, celebrating the tournament’s 40th anniversary with three days of thrilling rugby, outstanding sporting performances and unforgettable moments.
Welcoming schools from across the UK and beyond, this year’s festival was bigger than ever, with the expansion of the U15 competition and the introduction of a new U18 Girls tournament showcasing the continued growth of the event.
For the St Joseph’s U18 team, there was plenty of drama. After progressing from a fiercely competitive group, the hosts produced a memorable quarter-final victory over tournament favourites Millfield before overcoming reigning champions Wellington College in a tense semi-final. With the scores level at 7–7, the match was decided by a dramatic penalty shootout, sending the Joeys into the De La Salle Trophy final to the delight of the home crowd.
Although St Joseph’s were ultimately beaten by an impressive Cheltenham College side in the final, reaching the showpiece match was a tremendous achievement and a proud moment for the College. Congratulations to Cheltenham College on a deserved victory.
The expanded U15 competition also provided a fantastic platform for emerging talent, with 16 teams competing across the tournament. Cranleigh claimed the Cup, while St Joseph’s competed strongly before finishing their campaign in the Plate competition.
Another exciting addition was the inaugural U18 Girls tournament, bringing together four schools and providing valuable opportunities for young female players to compete on a national stage. Cardinal Newman were crowned champions, marking a positive first step in the continued development of girls’ rugby at the festival.
Beyond the results, the 40th festival was a celebration of everything that makes school sport special: teamwork, determination, sportsmanship and a shared passion for rugby. With matches streamed live across all three pitches, the event also reached supporters far beyond the College grounds.
A huge thank you to all the visiting schools, players, coaches, officials, volunteers, staff, partners and supporters who helped make the weekend such a success.
Forty years on, the National Schools Rugby Festival remains a highlight of the school sporting calendar, and St Joseph’s College is incredibly proud to continue hosting this prestigious event. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year!
Back