Wakefield Trinity’s DIY Kitchens Stadium played host to an unforgettable day of Rugby League action on Wednesday 23rd April 2025, as the inspiresport Champion Schools Year 11 and College Finals took centre stage. Billed as a showcase of future stars, the event delivered skill and passion from start to finish.
The action kicked off with the College Girls’ Final, as Calderdale College faced off against Priestley College.
Both sides had shown their quality throughout the season, having competed in a series of girls’ festivals across the Northwest and Yorkshire. The opening half saw Calderdale take a narrow lead, heading into the break 14-8 after a flurry of quick plays and powerful tackles. However, Priestley College mounted a determined second half comeback, edging out their competitors 24-20 in a nail-biting finish to claim the College Girls title.
Next up was the first of the Year 11 Champion Schools finals, featuring a hard-fought clash between St Benedict’s and Bridgewater High School (boys).
The game showcased physical rugby at its best, with both teams delivering strong defence and precision kicking. St Benedict’s led 12-8 at halftime, but Bridgewater responded with resilience to level the score at 12-12 by full-time. In a dramatic golden point period, St Benedict’s sealed a thrilling 13-12 victory with a clutch drop goal to take home the title.
Watch the full game back here.
The day concluded with a fiercely contested Year 11 Girls’ Final between St Peter’s and Castleford Academy which was a repeat of last year’s match.
St Peter’s struck early, scoring within the opening five minutes. The match was marked by intensity and grit, with both teams showing incredible determination in attack and defence. Holding a narrow 6-4 lead at halftime, St Peter’s managed to hold off Castleford in the second half, eventually triumphing 16-12 in a fitting end to a spectacular day of Year 11 and College Rugby League.
Watch the full game back here.
Andrea Murray, National Education Manager at the RFL, shared: “On behalf of everyone at the RFL, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, as well as the finalists, and acknowledge the many schools who took part in the 2025 Champion Schools competitions.
"Each year, this event showcases the future of our sport; with incredible talent, dedication, and the sheer joy of participation. I’d also like to personally thank the teachers, parents, volunteers, and our RFL staff who help bring this competition to life.
“Our thanks also go to Wakefield Trinity for providing an excellent setting for our 2025 Finals Day at the DIY Kitchens Stadium; we look forward to returning in July with the other year groups!”
Results:
Girls College Final
Calderdale College (Halifax Panthers) v Priestley College (Warrington Wolves)
24 Priestley College 20 Calderdale College
Boys Y11 inspiresport Champion Schools Final
St Benedict’s Catholic High School (Cumbria) v Bridgewater High School (NW)
13 St Benedict’s Catholic High School 12 Bridgewater High School
Girls Y11 inspiresport Champion Schools Final
Castleford Academy (Yorkshire) v St Peter’s Catholic High School (NW)
12 Castleford Academy 16 St Peter’s Catholic High School
