Line Competitions
The Stonyhurst Line Competition: Tradition, Team Spirit, and Friendly Rivalry
The Line Competition is a proud and central tradition at Stonyhurst College, offering pupils a unique sense of belonging, camaraderie, and healthy competition. Every pupil is assigned to one of four historic Stonyhurst Lines, each rooted in the school’s rich Jesuit heritage.
A Historic System of Belonging
The Line System was established in December 1922 by Father Wilson SJ, designed to encourage inclusive competition between pupils of similar age and ability—something not easily achieved within the Playroom structure. For many families, Line affiliation runs deep, with siblings, parents, and even grandparents having represented the same Line across generations.
Each Line is named in honour of a significant figure or place in Stonyhurst’s history:
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Campion – named after St Edmund Campion SJ, one of the most revered English Catholic martyrs.
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St Omers – referencing the town in France where Stonyhurst School was originally founded.
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Shireburn – commemorating the Shireburn family, who passed the estate to the Weld family.
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Weld – recognising Sir Thomas Weld, who gifted the estate to the Jesuits.
These names carry meaning, not just as identifiers, but as symbols of legacy and loyalty within the Stonyhurst community.
More Than Just Competition
While the Line Competition began with traditional sports like rugby and cricket, it has grown into a vibrant programme of activities that span the curriculum. From academic challenges and creative arts to athletics and performance, there’s truly something for everyone.
Weekly events are enthusiastically contested and participation is high, yet the core of the Line Competition remains rooted in fun, involvement, and shared experience. It's a chance for pupils to bond across year groups, discover new talents, and contribute to their Line’s success.
Of course, everyone wants to win—but win or lose, it’s about belonging to something greater.
Calendar of Events
