Article by Mohamed Hamzah (Web Content Team)
The Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 Awards Ceremony, held on 8 October 2025 at the BMICH in Colombo, celebrated an unforgettable season of school rugby. Among the evening’s proudest moments was the recognition of Trinity College, Kandy as Cup Champions in Division I, Segment A, marking Trinity’s first Cup Championship title in 38 years.
Rugby has long inspired young athletes to strive for excellence, revealing the true potential within them. The sport has produced many remarkable figures such as Roshan Weeraratne and Richie McCaw, both of whom began their journeys at school level.
Organised by Dialog Axiata PLC and the Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA), the league brought together over 90 schools and 2,700 players across three divisions. Trinity’s remarkable campaign saw the team lose only one match out of seven, demonstrating consistency, teamwork, and the true spirit of the game.
The evening was filled with emotion and pride as Trinity’s captain, Master Usman Safraz, stepped onto the same stage once shared by national leaders such as S. W. R. D. Bandaranaike and Lakshman Kadirgamar to receive the championship trophy. The hall erupted with applause as the announcer declared:
“38 Years, 1 Unforgettable Team,”
In an earlier interview with ThePapare.com, Master Usman Safraz expressed what the moment meant to the team and to College:
“Rugby at Trinity is about more than winning—it’s about tradition, pride, and brotherhood.”
In addition to clinching the main title, Trinity also received the ‘Fan Moment of the Year’ award for the outstanding support of the Trinity community. Individual honours included Best Team Leader for Master Usman Safraz, recognition for Most Tries Scored to Master Kavindu Rathnayaka, and the Most Valuable Player of the Season award presented to Master Nisith Kumarasinghe.
Final Points Table – Division I (Segment A):
- Trinity College Kandy – 24 points
- Wesley College Colombo – 19 points
- Royal College Colombo – 19 points
- S. Thomas’ College Mt. Lavinia – 16 points
- St. Peter’s College Colombo – 14 points
- Isipathana College Colombo – 8 points
Beyond the victories and awards, the 2025 league was a celebration of unity and respect among schools. Young sportsmen from across the island came together in the true spirit of rugby—showing courage, friendship, and mutual respect on and off the field. It was a powerful reminder of how school sport in Sri Lanka continues to build character, strengthen bonds, and foster lifelong camaraderie.
Trinity College extends heartfelt gratitude to all who made this achievement possible: the players for their dedication, the parents for their constant encouragement, and the coaches for their tireless guidance. Special appreciation goes to the Master-in-Charge, Mr Kanchana Galagoda, and the Scrummage for their unwavering commitment and support. The College also thanks the students, staff, and Old Boys whose steadfast encouragement from the stands and beyond played a vital role in this memorable triumph.
Trinity further extends sincere appreciation to Dialog Axiata PLC for sponsoring the league and to ThePapare team for their comprehensive media coverage of every match, which helped share the spirit of school rugby with audiences across the nation and all over the globe.
