The stage is set at the Sugathadasa Swimming Pool Complex this Saturday, 26th September 2026, as Sri Lanka’s premier aquatic spectacle returns with the opening leg of the 33rd Dr. R. L. Hayman Trophy Encounter. Contested between traditional rivals Royal College, Colombo, and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, the two-leg encounter stands as the most anticipated date on the national school water polo calendar and the most-attended school water polo event in South Asia.
Initiated in 1992, the trophy honors Dr. R. L. Hayman, a former Sub-Warden of S. Thomas’ College and donor of the school's swimming pool. Over more than three decades, the encounter has evolved into an intense tactical showcase that tests physical endurance, discipline, and tactical execution across two hard-fought legs decided on aggregate scoring.
Both teams step into the 2026 edition carrying distinct strengths and momentum:
Royal College: Entering as defending champions, Royal College remains eager to retain the trophy after last year's commanding performance. Led by Captain Bihandu Katugampola and Vice-Captain Imaad Ismath in goal, the Reid Avenue side boasts a squad with 7 colorsmen. Attackers Ramiru Aluthge and Sulaiman Shihar will be central to the offense, while their junior teams (U13 and U15) arrive undefeated this season, bringing tremendous momentum to the camp.
S. Thomas’ College: Leading the historical head-to-head tally with 17 wins to Royal's 11, the Mount Lavinia side looks to challenge the champions. Led by captain and pace-setter Shehran Nawaz and Vice-Captain Arith Salgado, STC fields a deep lineup feature-packed with 5 colorsmen and 10 Sri Lanka U19 national caps. Guarded by "The Thomian Wall" Dhruv Perera in goal and reinforced by key offensive threat Dinuk Wickramasinghe, the Thomians possess all the firepower needed to swing the balance.
Beyond the main event, the afternoon will feature competitive curtain-raisers in the U13 (2:30 PM) and U15 (4:00 PM) divisions, before the U19 main match takes center stage at 5:30 PM. Serving as Chief Guest for the opening leg is Mr. Nawaff Mubarak, former Sri Lanka national player and 1998 STC Swimming, Diving, and Water Polo Captain.
With over 2,000 spectators expected to pack the stands and live coverage available for viewers locally and overseas, the 1st Leg promises high-octane aquatic action as both schools take their first steps toward lifting the 33rd Hayman Trophy.
The second leg will take place on 3rd October 2026 at the same venue, where the aggregate champion will be crowned.