Tonga College 'Atele was named champion of the secondary schools’ rugby 2026, after defeating the defending titleholders Tupou College Toloa in a hard-fought senior Under-18 final at Teufaiva Stadium.
The victory ended Toloa's reign as champions after they claimed last year's title, with 'Atele emerging victorious in one of Tonga's fiercest school rugby rivalries.
Toloa held the advantage at halftime, but 'Atele fought back in the second half to secure the championship before a large and vocal crowd packing Teufaiva on Friday.
The annual secondary schools rugby finals drew strong support from students, teachers and families, with schools across Tongatapu operating on half-day schedules to allow attendance.
'Atele dominated the finals programme, qualifying teams in Grades 2, 3, 4 and 5 in addition to the senior Under-18 decider.
Liahona High School fielded four teams across the championship matches, while Tupou College Toloa reached two grand finals, including the senior title match. 'Apifo'ou College contested the Grade 3 final.
The grand final fixtures featured:
- Grade 1: Tupou College Toloa v Liahona High School
- Grade 2: Tonga College 'Atele v Liahona High School
- Grade 3: Tonga College 'Atele v 'Apifo'ou College
- Grade 4: Tonga College 'Atele v Liahona High School
- Grade 5: Tonga College 'Atele v Liahona High School
- Senior Under-18: Tonga College 'Atele v Tupou College Toloa
The senior decider again highlighted the enduring rivalry between 'Atele and Toloa, with both traditional rugby powerhouses producing an entertaining contest in front of a large school sports crowd.
