The National Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Cups serve as platforms for promoting rugby league engagement within schools across New South Wales, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, and Victoria, providing young athletes with the chance to participate in school rugby league, star at a state level and progress to the national stage.
The New South Wales Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Cups commenced on May 7, with 21 schools joining the competition. Similarly, in Queensland, 22 schools spanning from the Gold Coast to Cairns will kick off their competition on May 28.
“We’re really excited for the 2024 National Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Cups to kick off. Participating in school rugby league fosters a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among students, and something we’re excited to see again in 2024.
"Playing at school was an important part of my development and I look forward to seeing the next wave of talent coming through at school level," said NRL Participation Ambassador Brad Fittler.
In 2024, the NRL welcomes four new schoolgirl teams, including St James College, Mackay State High School, Trinity Bay State High School, and Mareeba State High School. The growth of the Schoolgirl Cup, demonstrated by the expansion of schoolgirl teams, highlights the thriving engagement of young female athletes in rugby league across the nation. This growth reflects the NRL’s commitment to fostering opportunities for female participation and development.
The culmination of the National Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Cups is the national final, set to take place on September 11 at Cbus Super Stadium Gold Coast. Last year, Westfield Sports High School claimed victory in the National Schoolboy Cup, while Mabel Park State High School emerged triumphant in the National Schoolgirl Cup.
Beyond athletic accomplishments, the NRL will also acknowledge academic excellence by selecting an Australian Combined Boys and Girls Academic Team of the Year. This initiative celebrates students who excel off the field and demonstrate a dedication to their academic growth.
The National Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Cups hold a significant place in rugby league, offering school students the opportunity to actively participate in the sport at both state and national levels. This competition underscores the NRL's commitment to promoting rugby league involvement within the school community.
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