NextGenXV are excited to announce the launch of the “NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge”, which will see schools and teams from around the globe gather together for a week-long celebration of the game on and off the field.
Top schools from around the world are in discussion to attend the inaugural event, which is to be held in South Africa in this first year, with the venue to be announced shortly, and to move around the globe in future years. Further announcements on those schools competing, as well as media partners, and detailed event logistics are expected shortly, underlining the commitment to delivering a top-class rugby festival and a memorable experience both on the pitch and beyond it.
The NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge will feature four main competitions:
The Championship: An elite competition consisting of 8 schools competing in a knockout format. Entry is highly selective, with a limited number of slots allocated per nation to ensure the highest level of play.
The Challenger Series: Also featuring 8 schools in a knockout system, with the victor securing a spot in the next year’s Championship, offering a pathway to the top tier.
An Invitational Competition: Open to clubs and Barbarian-style teams from around the globe, this 8-team contest will showcase diverse talents and playing styles.
A first-of-its-kind Draft Competition: Aimed at providing unprecedented opportunities for players at all levels, especially those from smaller schools or lower teams who have not had the chance to tour internationally.
Tom Pullen, a native of South Africa, and co-founder and director of NextGenXV, expressed his enthusiasm while emphasizing the unique approach of the event:
“Our goal is to deliver a quality tournament that stands out not just for its competitive spirit but also for the experience of all those involved. We’re incredibly excited about the draft competition, which we believe will provide great opportunity and experience for young players worldwide. At the elite end of the competition, it will be an opportunity for players and teams to test themselves against some of the best around, and a chance for viewers to experience the stars of the future from around the world competing head to head.”
The draft system is particularly notable for its inclusivity, allowing any player, regardless of their playing level, to participate. This initiative aims to form several teams, with players selected through a draft and receiving official jerseys in a live-streamed event. It promises to be a unique experience, offering coaching and team-building opportunities before the competition begins.
Angus Savage, co-founder and director of NextGenXV, highlighted the shared global experience as a key factor in arranging the tournament:
“Rugby, and school rugby in particular, is about far more than just the game, it is about experiences and memories and, to borrow a phrase, ‘breaking bread with others from around the world’. The NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge speaks to those values and the choice of South Africa as our host country in this first year is key to that as well, with its vibrant schools rugby culture, exceptional hospitality, and competitive spirit all standout features for us.”
Further details regarding the venue, team participation, and media coverage will be announced in the coming weeks. Players interested in the draft can find more information and register their interest by clicking on the banner on the NextGenXV homepage!
