North reigns supreme over South to lift Ron Balls Trophy

The North teams claimed bragging rights after two wins at the home of Nuneaton Lacrosse Club, Keresley RFC, in the 2026 North v South matches on Saturday.

Having been revived after a more than 40-year hiatus, the 2026 North v South event featured matches including players aged 35 and older (Masters) and 45 and older (Grand-Masters).

Both games were won by the North with the opening Masters game finishing 11-3 and the following Grand-Masters match ending with an 11-4 scoreline.

The winning teams secured the Ron Balls Trophy which was named ahead of the 2026 event to celebrate the life of the late European Lacrosse Federation President and pioneer of lacrosse in England Ron Balls.

Originally beginning in the late 1800s, the North v South matches were a staple of the lacrosse scene until the 1980s and with many players who played in that era now in their 50s and 60s, Centurion Lacrosse Club, with help from volunteers in the north, south, and midlands, decided to revive the event and planning is already underway for next year.

It is hoped a third category can be included in 2027 for those aged 55 and upwards, after players aged 35-67 took part this year.

For more information about next year’s event and to get involved, contact Ian Ballantine in the south on [email protected] or Dan Clements in the north on [email protected].

Final Scores

Masters | North 11-3 South
Grandmasters | North 11-4 South