Ballymore Cup History | Queensland Rugby

History

The Ballymore Cup traces its origins back to 1999, evolving from the Metropolitan Cup — a knockout competition created for Brisbane secondary schools outside the traditional rugby nurseries. From 1999 to 2002, the tournament was limited to metropolitan schools before expanding in 2003 to include teams from the Gold Coast, Darling Downs, and Sunshine Coast regions. This expansion significantly lifted the standard and profile of school rugby across South East Queensland.

By 2004, the Ballymore Cup had become a truly state-wide competition, welcoming schools from North Queensland, South Queensland, and metropolitan areas. Ninety-one teams competed that year, marking a breakthrough moment for school rugby in Queensland. The tournament offered a safe, competitive, and enjoyable environment, with schools grouped into divisions based on playing strength.

In 2011, the introduction of an Under 15 division gave schools a chance to engage younger players and develop talent earlier. Five years later, in 2016, the competition underwent a structural review and transitioned into a carnival-style format hosted at Ballymore — the home of Queensland Rugby. This new format allowed teams to play more matches and provided every school with a memorable rugby experience.

The 2018 tournament saw the addition of an Under 14 division and a shift in the age categories to Under 16 and Open Boys. That same year, the event partnered with Easts Rugby Club to deliver an enhanced experience in the club environment.

In 2019, the Ballymore Cup returned to Ballymore Stadium and reinstated its traditional age groups of Under 13, Under 15, and Open Boys. Twenty teams participated, with St. Laurence’s College taking out the Open Boys title after a strong showing throughout the tournament.

After a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ballymore Cup made a strong comeback in 2021 at Albany Creek Rugby Club’s South Pine Sports Complex. Twenty-eight teams competed, with standout performances from Iona College, Emmanuel College (Gold Coast), Ignatius Park College, Sunshine Coast Grammar, and Downlands College.

Building on that momentum, the 2022 edition featured a record 38 teams, again hosted at Albany Creek.

From 2023 onwards, the Ballymore Cup has continued to thrive. The redevelopment of Ballymore has provided a world-class venue for schools to compete and experience the state’s rugby heartland firsthand. The tournament has seen growing regional representation from across Queensland, with more schools from Central and North Queensland travelling to participate. The event now stands as one of the largest school rugby carnivals in the country — a celebration of the game’s spirit, community, and emerging talent.

PREVIOUS BALLYMORE CUP WINNERS

Under 13 Boys