Massive expansion looms for Qld State Schools Cup as new teams flock to join

The footy tournament created to rival elite private school competitions has sparked a revolution. See what organiser Tyron Harvey is predicting for the 2026 event.

Kirwan State High took out the boys division at the Queensland State Schools Cup, beating North Rockhampton High in the grand final. Photo: Le sport photography

Team numbers could more than double at the second edition of the Queensland State Schools Cup next year, according to organiser Tyron Harvey.

The North Rockhampton High teacher and rugby league coordinator has been inundated with inquiries from interested schools after the success of the inaugural event, played at Rockhampton’s Victoria Park in September this year.

Eight teams - five boys and three girls - contested the three-day carnival, with all of them vowing to return in 2026.

Harvey expects they will be joined by a number of other schools from as far afield as Cairns to Brisbane, which have flagged their intention of taking part.

Queensland State Schools Cup organiser Tyron Harvey (front) with some of North Rockhampton High's rugby league talent.

The QSSC would next year be held from June 24 to 26, Wednesday to Friday of the last week of Term 2, which had also received a resounding thumbs up from returning and prospective schools.

“All the schools that played this year were really happy and will be coming back, and we’re expecting a pretty big influx of new schools,” Harvey said.

“I reckon we’re looking at 12 boys teams and potentially five or six girls teams.

“Nothing’s locked in yet but we’re hoping for the best.

“I’m really excited that it’s growing and I’m still getting emails from schools who watched on or have gotten wind of it.”

Harvey created the QSSC to provide state school footy players with the same opportunities available to their Catholic and Independent school counterparts, who compete in events such as the prestigious Confraternity Carnival.

Emerald State High won the girls division at the inaugural Queensland State Schools Cup.

He said it was heartening to see it embraced so positively.

Harvey said the predicted increase in numbers would mean games would have to be played on two fields next year.

“Given we had a smaller starting point this year, we know what we’re in for and I’m confident we can deliver again,” he said.

“That will be a key focus, ensuring that we provide the same product as we did this year.

“We want to make sure we’re really well prepared and it runs like a well-oiled machine.”

Harvey was impressed with the quality of footy played this year, and said that would grow in line with increased participation.

Townsville powerhouse Kirwan were the inaugural boys champions, while Emerald State High won the girls.

The carnival’s best were recognised with selection in the QSSC boys and girls merit teams.

Originally published as Massive expansion looms for Qld State Schools Cup as new teams flock to join