Campion College Defeats Calabar High to Claim RLJ/Flash Ship Couriers U19 Rugby League Title

MVP Joshua Brandon hold the trophy with teammates (Abigail McGann Photography)

Rugby League Jamaica brought the Flash Ship Couriers–sponsored U19 High School 13-a-side Championship to an exciting close on Friday, January 23, at Campion College, as defending champions Calabar High School faced hosts Campion College in the national final.

Both teams entered the contest still bearing the effects of bruising semi-final victories three days earlier. Calabar, the only undefeated team in the competition, started as slight favourites. However, it was evident from the opening exchanges that Campion were determined to dethrone the champions.

Calabar on the attack.  (Abigail McGann Photography)

Driven by high intensity and clinical execution, Campion dominated the first half with a potent attacking display and resolute defence, racing to an 18–4 lead at the halftime interval.

Calabar, renowned for their ability to mount strong second-half comebacks, showed marked improvement after the restart. They tightened their defence and restricted Campion to just one additional score. However, despite their renewed defensive effort, Calabar were unable to generate the attacking momentum required to close the gap, managing only a single second-half try. Campion maintained control to secure a convincing 26–10 victory and claim their second U19 championship title.

Joshua Brandon delivered a Man of the Match performance for Campion, scoring three tries for a personal tally of 12 points. He was well supported by fullback Nathaniel Cahill, who crossed the line twice, while Andrei-Justin Cooke added a successful conversion. Calabar’s scoring was led by Derone Plummer with a try and a goal for six points, while Cahvar Spencer also contributed a try.

Winning coach Andrew Dixon praised his team’s performance, stating, “This was our best game of the season; the lads really surprised me. We drew first blood and kept the tempo high. I was expecting more power in the middle from Calabar, but we managed to keep most of the action in their half, which allowed us to establish dominance. Congratulations to Calabar on reaching the final — they were worthy opponents.”

Calabar head coach Oshane Edie acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, saying, “I’m deeply disappointed with the outcome. Unfortunately, we did not perform to our usual standards and appeared fatigued throughout the match. Campion made excellent use of home advantage, and the crowd really got behind them. The score line reflects the difference in performance. Congratulations to Campion. We will regroup and aim to come back stronger next season.”

In the third-place playoff, Jose Marti High secured a 20-16 victory over St. Georges College.