Since its humble beginnings in 1999 as the Metropolitan Cup, the Ballymore Cup has grown into one of Queensland’s premier schoolboy rugby tournaments. What started as a local knockout competition for schools outside the traditional rugby nurseries has evolved into a statewide showcase of emerging talent, uniting schools from every corner of Queensland in the spirit of competition, respect, and camaraderie.
Over two decades, the Ballymore Cup has built a proud legacy, from its early expansion in 2003 to include the Gold Coast, Darling Downs, and Sunshine Coast, to its transformation into a carnival-style event run over 3 continious days. The tournament has provided countless young players with a platform to test themselves, build friendships, and experience the thrill of representing their school on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.
Now, in 2026, the Ballymore Cup enters an exciting new chapter.
The competition will transform into an exclusive invitational tournament, celebrating schools that demonstrate both a strong rugby culture and a commitment to regular XVs competition within their regions. This evolution ensures that every fixture remains competitive, meaningful, and true to the values that have defined the Cup since its inception.
- U18 Boys XV – 12 Teams
- U16 Boys XV – 6 Teams
- U14 Boys XV – 6 Teams
For players, coaches, and supporters alike, the Ballymore Cup represents more than just a tournament — it’s an opportunity to be part of Queensland Rugby’s living history.
