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Wellington College is proud to announce that our 1st XV have been crowned champions of the 2025 St Joseph’s Rugby Festival, following a weekend of outstanding rugby that showcased the team’s skill, determination and togetherness.
The two-day tournament, held at St Joseph’s College, brought together some of the country’s leading rugby schools in what proved to be one of the most fiercely contested editions in recent years. Wellington emerged unbeaten, claiming their second St Joseph’s Festival title after a dramatic 10–7 victory over Millfield in the final.
Wellington began their campaign in fine form on Saturday, topping their pool with three hard-fought victories. The team opened with a confident 17–7 win over Whitchurch High School, followed by a narrow 7–5 victory against Seaford College and a determined 12–8 triumph over Denstone College.
On Sunday, Wellington’s composure came to the fore. In the quarter-final, they edged out a strong Cheltenham College side 12–10, before overcoming hosts St Joseph’s College 14–5 in the semi-final, with a crucial intercept from Elijah J highlighting a performance marked by disciplined defence and clinical finishing.
That win set up a thrilling final against Millfield, eight-time champions and one of Wellington’s most familiar rivals. Millfield led 7–0 for much of the game, but Wellington refused to yield. With just minutes remaining, Pippo H crossed the line to level the score and Sam W-K coolly converted to make it 7–7.
In the closing moments, Sam W-K stepped up once again, slotting a 40-metre penalty to seal an unforgettable 10–7 victory and spark celebrations among players, staff and supporters alike.
Congratulations to the Wellington College 1st XV, 2025 St Joseph’s Rugby Festival Champions.
