In a thrilling announcement, Eton College has been revealed as the latest addition to the prestigious lineup for the 2023 World School’s Festival (WSF). Joining them on this global rugby stage is the formidable Hartpury College, celebrating their 10th AASE National Champions title and retaining their English Champions crown.
Hartpury College boasts a rich rugby legacy with notable alumni including England’s Jonny May, Alex Cuthbert, and Wales’ Ross Moriarty, alongside the exceptional Louis Rees Zammit, who missed the 2018 WSF due to international commitments.
The 2023 WSF, now in its second year of the revamped format, promises to elevate the excitement generated in 2022. Featuring eight top schools from around the world competing in the Cup competition, the event will also showcase an Open Trophy and a Girls 7s Tournament, adding diversity to the riveting rugby spectacle.
Scheduled to take place from the 12th to the 17th of December, the World Schools Festival aims to be a spectacular showcase of schoolboy rugby excellence. Eton College, currently ranking 6th on the English Order of Merit league, brings an impressive season record with only one narrow loss, showcasing their prowess in the competitive rugby landscape.
The participating schools, a who’s who of global school’s rugby, include:
- St Michael’s College, Ireland
- Westlake Boys’ High School, New Zealand
- Cardiff & Vale College, Wales
- Oakdale Landsbou, South Africa
- Hartpury College, England
- Hoërskool Dr. E.G. Jansen, South Africa
The festival’s coverage kicks off on Tuesday, December 12th, offering fans worldwide an opportunity to witness the future stars of rugby in action.
Beyond the participating schools, the Open tournament introduces the Odyssey squad, featuring two teams coached by two of the finest schools rugby mentors globally. Katleho Lynch, the South Africa Schools Head Coach and Director of Rugby at St Johns College in SA, along with Sean Graham, the Director of Rugby from Nudgee College in Queensland, bring their expertise to the field.
The 2023 World Schools Festival promises to uphold the true spirit of rugby, with 24 teams and over 475 players representing 12 countries. This event solidifies its reputation as the most international schools rugby festival globally, offering a platform for young talents to showcase their skills on the global stage.