The National Tackle Football Association (NTFA) is announcing the highly anticipated return of the Secondary School Gridiron League (SSGL) competition, set to kick off on September 20 with the SSGL Jamboree slated to be hosted at UWI Mona Bowl. 

Following the success of the SSGL Competition 2024, which culminated in an electrifying championship showdown at the UWI Mona Bowl on December 13, 2024, this year’s competition promises even greater excitement, opportunity, and elite-level competition.

A Legacy of Excellence and Unforgettable Moments:

The 2024 SSGL Championship will be remembered as one of the most thrilling displays of gridiron talent in Jamaican history. The final between Munro College and May Day High delivered an unprecedented spectacle, ending regulation in a 6-6 tie and requiring eight overtime periods to crown Munro College as victors. 

This historic clash not only showcased the immense skill and determination of Jamaica’s young athletes but also captured the attention of international scouts and collegiate programs. 

The exposure generated by SSGL 2024 led to transformative opportunities for Jamaican student-athletes, with organisations such as SCORE International and Sul Ross State University taking keen interest in the nation’s emerging talent. 

Building on this momentum, the NTFA hosted the All-Jamaica Bowl Game (April 19, 2025) and the NTFA/NCAA Showcase (May 20, 2025), both of which resulted in multiple scholarship offers for participants—further solidifying the NTFA’s commitment to athlete development and global exposure. 

SSGL 2025: Elevating the Game

The 2025 SSGL Championship, set to conclude on December 6, 2025, will feature Jamaica’s top-ranked high school football programs, including: 

Munro College (Defending Champions) 

• May Day High
• Newell High 
• Mona High 
• STETHS 
• Black River High
• St. Mary Tech
• Denbigh High
• New Forest High
• St. Catherine FC

An additional six schools are currently undergoing evaluation for eligibility, underscoring the rapid growth and competitive expansion of tackle football across Jamaica. 

More Than a Championship: 

Pathways to Success: 

The NTFA continues to prioritise athlete development, education, and professional advancement through its scholarship initiatives and professional pathway programs. 

This year’s SSGL will not only award trophies and medals but also provide financial awards to top-performing teams in the championship games to bolster their football programs. 

Furthermore, the NTFA, in collaboration with international partners, has expanded its training and development initiatives for coaches, officials, and administrators, ensuring that Jamaica’s football infrastructure grows in tandem with its on-field talent.

Regions targeted for development include: 

• St. Elizabeth
• Mandeville
• May Pen
• Spanish Town
• Portmore
• Kingston
• St. Mary
• Ocho Rios 
• Montego Bay
• Westmoreland

The NTFA invites athletes, coaches, officials, and football enthusiasts to register and stay informed about the 2025 SSGL season and associated development programs.