St Brendan’s College continued its tradition of excellence in the Confraternity Shield 2024, building on a remarkable history of victories that includes securing the shield in 1982, 1983, 1985, 1987, 1996, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2014, 2015, and 2023.
SBC’s title defense at Confraternity Shield 2024 began on a high note, with a resounding Round 1 win against St. Augustine’s Cairns. Braelan Marsh starred in a 34-nil victory, sending an early message to the competition. However, the afternoon game presented a challenge, as the team struggled with turnovers and ill-discipline, resulting in accumulating penalties. Marist Ashgrove managed to hold SBC to a 16-all draw to round out the day.
Day 2 saw eventual finalists Padua come out strong against the 1st XIII. Despite being down 16-nil at halftime, the team staged a remarkable comeback, scoring 18 unanswered points to defeat the Brisbane school 18-16 and set up a tantalizing showdown with St. Pats Mackay. Unfortunately, injuries to Braelan Marsh and Carter Ford affected subsequent results. A loss to St. Pats in the Quarter Final meant SBC wouldn’t contest the shield final.
Thursday saw a solid victory against Emmaus College, followed by a strong finish against Titans Cup Champions Marymount College, winning 18-10 to secure an overall 5th place finish.
While SBC didn't walk away with the shield this year, the highlight of the carnival was the recognition of Captain Simon Green, who was named in the Queensland Confraternity side at lock forward. Harrison Hill was also honored by being named at second row and received the prestigious Player of the Carnival award, an accolade last awarded to Bailey Butler in 2015.
St Brendan’s College remains immensely proud of the students’ dedication and achievements. The focus now shifts to the Dolphins Cup, where SBC currently sits at the top of the table, ready to continue the pursuit of excellence heading into the final round stages before finals in Term 3.