Champion Schools finals will have a new home for 2026, with the next generation of stars competing for the titles this year at Victoria Pleasure Grounds, home of the sport’s newest club Goole Vikings.
The first set of fixtures will take place on Wednesday 22nd April when the Y11 finals are contested.
The first schools final at the at the refurbished ground will see St Peter’s Catholic High School (NW), who are competing in this fixture for the third year in a row, take on St John Fisher CVA Yorkshire who have a rich history in the girls competition and return to the finals fold after two years away. With a handful of future female stars in each team, the game promises to be a high-quality tie.
Castleford Academy (Yorkshire), the former school of Vikings captain Brett Ferres, will take on rivals Sirius West Academy (Yorkshire) as the sides meet each other again in the final of the Y11 boys competition.
Last season as Y10, Sirius took the Yorkshire title but were beaten to the Champion Schools final by Castleford. With both teams reaching both the regional and national finals again in Y11, who will get the final say?
Former England international Ferres, who will be presenting the trophy to the winners of the Y11 boys final, said:
“The club and the town is pleased to be hosting the finals day and what we hope will be the first of many events like this in Goole when the redevelopment is complete.
“It will be a fantastic venue for young teams to come and compete and hopefully these matches will showcase the next generation of professional talent.
“I remember what it was like to play in matches like this as a young player, they are special occasions and create fantastic memories – we want to congratulate all four teams on their performances so far and wish them the best of luck for the finals.”
Admission to the 2026 Champion Schools Year 11 Finals will be £5 adults, £3 concessions – cash or card on entry or tickets can be booked in advance here.
The Victoria Pleasure Grounds is currently in the final phase of its redevelopment which has seen a brand-new playing surface laid and the installation of athletics track thanks to Sport England funding, as well as a soon to be completed main pavilion as part of a £25 million pound redevelopment programme in the town.
Works remain ongoing at the ground, so visitors are thanked for their patience in advance and are encouraged to read the match day information guide that will be shared on the Goole Vikings club website and ticketing page.
2026 Champion Schools Year 11 Finals
Wednesday 22 April 2026, Victoria Pleasure Grounds, Goole
Girls Y11 Champion Schools Final - St Peter’s Catholic High School (NW) v St John Fisher CVA (Yorkshire) KO 4:15pm
Boys Y11 Champion Schools Final - Castleford Academy (Yorkshire) v Sirius Academy West (Yorkshire) KO 5:35pm
