Rugby School 7s Tournament: Cowrie RFC, AJ Sharks clinch inaugural Ronald Chagoury Cup

Rugby School 7s Tournament:
Cowrie RFC, AJ Sharks clinch inaugural Ronald Chagoury Cup

Cowrie RFC Men's 7s team and AJ Sharks Women's 7s team emerged champions at the maiden Ronald Chagoury Rugby School 7s Tournament held in Lekki and hosted by Rugby School Nigeria in partnership with the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF).

The one-day event brought together nine teams—six men’s and three women’s sides—and offered spectators a thrilling display of speed, skill, and teamwork on the lush Rugby School Nigeria pitch located in the Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos. The tournament also served as a key platform to spotlight emerging domestic talent and deepen community engagement in the sport.

Cowrie RFC dominated the men’s final, defeating AJ Sharks 38–0 to lift the first-ever Ronald Chagoury Cup. In the women’s category, AJ Sharks Women returned the favour with an emphatic 38–0 victory over Cowrie RFC Women, underscoring the rapid growth of female rugby in Nigeria.

Azeez Ladipo, General Manager of the NRFF and tournament organiser, described the competition as a milestone for grassroots rugby development:

“The Ronald Chagoury Cup marks the beginning of a bigger vision — rebuilding domestic rugby culture from the ground up. Our home-based players are hungry and talented. With tournaments like this, we are creating a structured pathway for their growth. More editions will follow next year as we expand the domestic calendar.”

He also thanked Rugby School Nigeria for its support and collaboration.

Dr. Adam England, Principal of Rugby School Nigeria, applauded the quality of play and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to strengthening the partnership:

“The standards were impressive, especially in the women’s games. We look forward to hosting future editions with increased Rugby School involvement. This partnership with the NRFF is vital for sustainable rugby development in Nigeria.”

The tournament benefitted from strong sponsorship, volunteer support, and professional officiating, contributing to a memorable experience for athletes and spectators.

Organisers say future editions of the Ronald Chagoury Cup will feature expanded teams participation, stronger women’s representation, broader grassroots scouting, and increased corporate backing.