PETALING JAYA: The Super Schools Rugby (SSR) tournament will return in 2026 with a revamped structure, expanded field and a stronger emphasis on player development.
The new season was officially launched with the draw ceremony broadcast live from the Astro Arena studio, signalling the start of what organisers expect to be the most competitive edition yet.
This year’s competition will feature a two-tier format.
The SSR Premier (Division One) will showcase the top 16 teams from the 2025 season, while the SSR Challenge Trophy (Division Two) will include the remaining sides along with five new entrants - SMS Machang, SMS Johor, SMK King George V, SMS Muzaffar Shah and St John Institution.
The structure is aimed at creating a more balanced level of competition while giving emerging programmes greater exposure.
Alongside SSR, the Super Academy Rugby (SAR) competition will continue as a development platform for sports schools, project schools and rugby academies.
SAR will feature 16 teams, including SMK Abi, Akademi Ragbi Ipoh, SMK Putrajaya Presint 11 (1) and Royal Town Warriors.
Several figures from the local rugby fraternity attended the launch, including former national coach Saizul Hafifi, ex-international K. Dineswaran, and coaches from defending champions MRSM Balik Pulau (SSR) and Sekolah Sukan Malaysia Pahang (SAR).
SSR, regarded as Malaysia’s leading secondary school rugby competition, remains centred on nurturing grassroots talent, with teams competing for the Tan Sri Wan Aziz Challenge Trophy while building pathways into higher-level rugby.
Said Enervive sports chief executive officer Shahrizin Shaharudin: "Super Schools Rugby is more than just a tournament - it is an ecosystem that strengthens the foundations of grassroots rugby."
"The 2026 season reflects a matured structure, a more balance competition, and broader exposure for players, coaches and teams."
