The Steven Mullaney Memorial Trophy Final gave two Wigan schools the chance to experience the magic of rugby league’s biggest stage.

THE teachers, parents and, most importantly, children of both Wigan schools were thrilled by the ‘Wembley experience’ after playing in the traditional curtain-raiser to the Betfred Challenge Cup Final.

St Peter’s and The Deanery featured in a Wigan derby in the Boys’ Year 7 Steven Mullaney Memorial Trophy Final and, regardless of the 38-0 scoreline in favour of St Peter’s, everyone involved will have lasting, positive memories of the occasion.

The game was, in fact, particularly memorable for being refereed by 18-year-old Jack Twigg, who is a nephew of Steven Mullaney.

Steven thrilled the crowd and countless TV viewers with his try-scoring exploits and celebration for Wakefield schools against St Helens school in 1986. Tragically, he died in a motor accident outside his school gates the following year, following which the Rugby Football League named the trophy in his honour.

Forty years after Steven Mullaney’s epic performance, Blake Baggaley and Oliver Green bagged a brace apiece to help St Peter’s lift the famous trophy. Harry McPhelim contributed a try and five goals, and other touchdowns went to Archie Parsley and Alfie Meadwell.

Teacher Neil Ashton of St Peter’s said: “We’ve been fortunate enough to take teams to Wembley before, but it never loses its sense of occasion. Every time we have the opportunity to go, we’re reminded just how lucky we are.

“For the players, it’s a fantastic experience. Playing at one of the most famous stadiums in the world, on the same stage as their heroes, is something they will remember for the rest of their lives, even if they don’t fully appreciate it until they’re older.

“This year was made even more special by sharing the day with the Wigan Warriors men’s and women’s Challenge Cup Final teams, as well as seeing former pupils Ollie Partington, Grace Banks and Jenna Foubister involved. To have all four teams representing the town at Wembley on the same day made it a really proud occasion for Wigan.”

Ashton continued: “Most of the lads play for local amateur teams, with the highest number coming from Orrell St James, alongside Pilkington Recs, Shevington Sharks and Chorley Panthers. We’re very fortunate to have such supportive clubs, and a great deal of credit for the boys’ development goes to the coaches who work with them week in, week out. Our success as a school simply wouldn’t be possible without them.

“Our appreciation goes to the RFL for the opportunities they continue to provide, along with the Mullaney family. We’d also like to thank the parents who travel the length of the country to support the team. Above all, our biggest thanks go to the pupils themselves, who have worked tirelessly since September and fully deserve everything they have achieved.”

Chris Sweeney of The Deanery said: “The progress made by the team was extraordinary. Most of the 17 players had their first experience of rugby when they joined The Deanery, and to see them reach the national final in such a short time has been a source of immense pride for all of us.

“Rugby league plays a significant role in our school’s history. Andy Gregory and Sean Long – both Lance Todd Trophy winners – are among our former students. While we have had teams reach national finals before, this was the first time we have contested the Steven Mullaney Final. Even more special, Wigan’s men’s and women’s teams were competing in the senior finals and former Deanery pupils Aaron and Liam Moore refereed the senior games.”

He reflected: “Our journey to Wembley began well before match day. In the week preceding the final, players and the very supportive parents from both schools attended a special event at Wigan Warriors, where the boys were presented with their match shirts. Rugby league legends Kris Radlinski, Liam Marshall and Matty Peet spoke to the teams and that was an inspiring moment for the boys, reinforcing the pride and excitement of representing their schools on such a big stage. We are incredibly grateful to the club for demonstrating the value they place on school rugby in the town.”

He said: “Most of the team now continue to play for local clubs, fulfilling one of our core objectives: introducing young students to rugby league in lessons and through co-curricular opportunities, then nurturing that passion into long-term participation.”

Sweeney concluded: “The Wembley experience was more than just a game – it was a celebration of growth, commitment and school spirit. And for these boys, the memory of that day will last a lifetime.”

First published in Rugby League World magazine, Issue 522 (July 2026)