Stubbs Shield Boxing from October 31

By Susil Premalal 

The 105th Stubbs Shield, a landmark event in Sri Lankan schools’ boxing, will take place from October 31 to November 5 at the Royal MAS Arena in Colombo. 

This year, with 550 boxers from 126 schools across three age divisions – Under-16 (junior), Under-18 (youth) and Under-20 (senior) – competing in 36 weight classes, the stage is set for a fierce competition for the coveted Shield and the Col. T. Y. Wright Challenge Cup for the Best Boxer in the Boys’ Division.

This year’s Stubbs Shield holds special significance for participating schools with a strong boxing heritage, including the defending champions, St. Sylvester’s College, Kandy. 

Royal College, Colombo, another traditional powerhouse, enters the competition with a historic record of 19 Stubbs Shield titles, more than any other school. 

Vidyartha College stands out for its remarkable seven-year winning streak from 1991 to 1997 in Stubbs Shield history. Their sustained commitment to boxing excellence has inspired young athletes throughout the nation, securing Vidyartha’s place among the elite boxing schools in Sri Lanka.

Vidyarathna University College, Horana, this year’s champions of the L. V. Jayaweera and T. B. Jayah Tournaments, are set to leverage its success in novice-level competitions for a strong showing at this year’s National School Games.

Founded in 1914, the Stubbs Shield has remained resilient, with only three cancellations in its long history. The Stubbs Shield has stood as Sri Lanka’s oldest and most celebrated school boxing championship. 

Named after Sir R. Edward Stubbs, a former Governor of Ceylon, the tournament has become the pinnacle of school-level boxing in Sri Lanka.