A school rugby team from ̨��swag Academy Haydock, St Helens, has been crowned winner of the Inspiresport Champion Schools Year 8 Boys’ final.

The team won its first piece of silverware in May at the St Helens Schools Cup Competition where the boys defeated Cowley High School 25-0. This led to their first clash against Bedford High School in the North West Final, where they won 22-0. Progressing to the National Semi-Final, the team seized another win over Archbishop Sentamu Academy, ending 16-0, earning the team a place in the National Final.

The National Final saw a closely fought contest, and despite being ten points behind at halftime, ̨��swag Academy Haydock forged a fantastic comeback with 28 unanswered points in the second half, remaining unbeaten, securing a treble and finishing on a full-time score of 34-16. Adding to the team’s achievements, Munachimso Ojukwu was presented with the Player of the Match award.

Chris Worthington, Head of PE at the school, said:

“The performance of the Year 8 team in the final was an outstanding spectacle, which reflected the commitment and determination of every player. The jubilant celebrations from Munachimso when he was awarded Player of the Match topped the day. It showed just how shocked and happy he was to receive the award. Spectators at the event shared in the applause with smiles and tears of joy.  

“Although Munachimso only joined our school in September and was completely new to rugby, he has shown resilience, passion and dedication to the school team, being an integral part of its success this season. Seeing the team celebrate on the pitch with all three trophies was a wonderful achievement and memory to cherish forever.”

The Champion Schools league is open to teams from across 6 regions, with around 150 schools participating per age group from Year 7 to Year 11. The competition is open to boys’ and girls’ teams alike.

Andrea Murray, National Education Manager at Rugby Football League, said:

“Congratulations to ̨��swag Academy Haydock on their first national Champion Schools title. The team narrowly missed out on a spot at Wembley last year, losing by 1 point in the Year 7 Boys’ semi-final, and have used that experience to come back a stronger and more resilient team this year, winning our regional and now national titles. Congratulations to Mr Beddoe and all the team on a fantastic season.”