Balmagie Primary tops inaugural Champions Cup

BALMAGIE PRIMARY delivered an inspiring underdog story, capturing the 2025 Champions Cup title after defeating three of the top prep school football teams in the country at the UWI Mona Bowl on the weekend.

Their journey to the trophy was nothing short of legendary.

In the quarterfinals, Balmagie edged powerhouse Lannamans 1-0 before dominating Mona Prep 3-0 in the semi-finals.

In the final, they held off tournament favourites Sts Peter & Paul 1-0 to secure the title.

Led by standout captain Demari Palmer, who was named most valuable player, leading goalscorer, and awarded the prestigious Pocket Rocket Foundation Scholarship (a $100,000 annual grant towards his education), Balmagie’s triumph was the ultimate proof that grit and heart can conquer even the biggest names.

This year’s tournament, executed by FYI Consultancy Group, was the inaugural staging of what promises to be a marquee event on the school football calendar with the generous support of sponsors Kemtek, Western Sports, and Pure Water.

“The Champions Cup is more than just a tournament. It’s a platform to elevate young talent, celebrate community, and create opportunities through sport,” said Paula Pinnock, managing director of FYI Consultancy Group, the organisers behind the Youth Football League.

“What Balmagie achieved this year shows exactly why we do this — to inspire belief and give every child a chance to shine.”

“We also recognise our supporting partners, The Gleaner, ICWI, and Gatorade for helping make this youth football showcase a success. Special thanks to the parents, teachers, and football fans who came out in full force to support the future stars of Jamaican football.”

Earlier, Mona Prep beat McAuley Primary 2-0 to make the semi-final against Balmaie, while Sts Peter and Paul advanced past Corinaldi on penalties to get into the final four. Hillel Academy beat Spanish Town Primary 3-0 to earn a semi-final berth.

Sts Peter and Paul had also looked comfortable after their quarterfinal scare, getting to the final with a 2-0 win over Hillel.