Queen Anne’s School to host Lacrosse Challenge Cup as Olympic spotlight nears
On Sunday 16 November 2025, Queen Anne’s School in Caversham will host the Lacrosse’s Schools Challenge Cup, a major tournament run by England Lacrosse that will see some of the country’s leading schools compete in a day of top-flight competition, which features the eight quarter finalists from last year’s National Championships.
The event comes at a historic moment for the sport, with lacrosse confirmed for inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. For the hundreds of young players set to take part, the Challenge Cup is both a showcase of school-level excellence and a potential first step on the pathway to future Olympic representation.
Hosts in winning form
Queen Anne’s take on the role of host fresh from their greatest success in decades: winning the National Schools U19 Lacrosse Championship earlier this year. The school is determined to use the Challenge Cup to inspire the next generation of players.
Head of Lacrosse at Queen Anne’s, Rachael Page, said:
'The Challenge Cup is about far more than silverware. It’s a celebration of school sport at the highest level and a chance for young players to see what’s possible in lacrosse, from national titles to Olympic dreams.'
Inspiration from alumnae
The tournament also shines a light on Annabelle Akintoye (Class of 2014), one of Queen Anne’s most celebrated alumnae. Now captain of England’s Women’s Box Lacrosse Team, Akintoye made history last year as the first Black woman to captain an England lacrosse side.
Her journey from school sport to international leadership underscores the opportunities now opening for players as lacrosse grows in global prominence.
Strong national field
The Challenge Cup will feature a competitive line-up, including:
Queen Anne’s School (hosts and U19 national champions)
Moreton Hall School
Guildford High School
Withington Girls’ School
Godolphin School
St Catherine’s, Bramley
Downe House
Westonbirt
Event details
The Lacrosse School Challenge Cup takes place at Queen Anne’s School, Caversham, on Sunday 16 November 2025. Matches will run throughout the day with knockout finals in the afternoon. Spectators are welcome and can book to attend here. https://www.trybooking.com/uk/FLQX
October 2025