IrelandFirst contested in 1913, the Connacht Schools Senior Cup is the oldest and most prestigious schools rugby competition in the western province of Ireland. Organised by the Connacht Branch of the IRFU, it brings together the top secondary school teams each spring to battle for provincial honours and a place in local rugby history.
Traditionally dominated by Garbally College, who have lifted the trophy more than fifty times, the competition has seen a growing challenge in recent years from the likes of Sligo Grammar School, Marist College Athlone and Coláiste Iognáid Galway. The tournament follows a knockout format culminating in a final played at The Sportsground in Galway, often drawing large and passionate crowds.
Renowned for its fierce rivalries and production of future Connacht and Ireland players, the Senior Cup remains a defining feature of school rugby in the west and a key stepping stone in the Irish rugby pathway.
