The Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament has a new king sitting on the throne after four days of all-out action, with Virginia High School becoming the third school to be crowned the champion of the prestigious tournament.
In an evenly contested final, Virginia defeated the Wildeklawer Academy 4-3 from the penalty spot after the teams had ended regulation time level at 2-2.
Throughout the tournament, both sides delivered exceptional performances, and both topped their groups.
Wildeklawer Academy, competing in Group A, picked up three wins and a draw, while Virginia High, in Group C, finished with a similar record.
The 2025 edition of the event was, arguably, the most exciting and unpredictable of the last three Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournaments, and some big names fell long before they were expected to be challenged. Maritzburg College failed to make it beyond the group stage, while Grey College was knocked out in the quarterfinals.
On Saturday, after the competition was narrowed down to four teams from an initial 20, Virginia High School took on two-time champions, HTS Louis Botha, in the semifinals, while the Wildeklawer Academy had a date with Clapham High School, the defending champions.
In a hard-fought contest, Virginia halted their fellow Free Staters, recording a narrow 1-0 win to secure their place in the title decider.
Wildeklawer Academy’s fairytale run continued when they overcame Clapham 2-0 to advance to the gold medal match.
In a contest replete with outstanding skills, both teams netted twice, but that necessitated a penalty shootout to determine the winner. It went Virginia High School’s way by a 4-3 margin and the title was theirs.
In the bronze medal playoff, Clapham handed HTS Louis Botha a 1-0 loss to follow up 2024’s title win with third place in 2025.
Virginia High School’s outstanding performances were reflected in the Team of the Tournament, with six of their players cracking the nod for the 11-player lineup. Three players from the Wildeklawer Academy were included, and one each from HTS Louis Botha and Paul Roos Gimnasium.
AWARDS
TEAM OF THE TOURNAMENT
Goalkeeper
Sello Mokhobo – Virginia High School
Defenders
Katleho Monyabi – Virginia High School
Thato Kraal – Virginia High School
Cronan Willis – Paul Roos Gimnasium
Mozwakhe Flatela – Virginia High School
Midfielders
Tina Mbuma – HTS Louis Botha
Mpho Mhlokoe – Virginia High School
Junior Papier – Wildeklawer Academy
Forwards
Lehlohonolo Khanas – Virginia High School
Atlegang Manqele – Wildeklawer Academy
Beyondre Bok – Wildeklawer Academy
Player of the Tournament
Mpho Mhlokoe – Virginia High School
Top Goal scorer
Beyondre Bok – Wildeklawer Academy
Goalkeeper of the Tournament
Sello Mokhobo – Virginia High School
Coach of the Tournament
Christopher Minnies – Wildeklawer Academy
Final Standings
Virginia High School
Wildeklawer Academy
Clapham High School
HTS Louis Botha
Navalsig High School
Grey College
Paul Roos Gimnasium
Norkem Park High School
Emmang Mmogo
Glenwood High School
Kimberley Boys’ High
Northern Academy
Brebner High School
Maritzburg College
Jeppe High School for Boys
Victoria Park High School
Reddam House Bedfordview
Border High Schools
Potchefstroom High School for Boys
Northwood School
Saturday, 3 May
Semifinals
Virginia High School 1-0 HTS Louis Botha
Wildeklawer Academy 2-0 Clapham High School
3rd/4th Playoff
Clapham 1-0 HTS Louis Botha
Final
Virginia High School (4) 2-2 (3) Wildeklawer Academy
Following three days of football filled with surprising outcomes, the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament is down to four title contenders, with the defending champions, Clapham High School, and the two-time champions, HTS Louis Botha, among those progressing to the semifinals.
Shock waves shook the competition on Thursday, day two of the event, with some top teams being among the first to be eliminated.
The KZN powerhouse, Maritzburg College, failed to secure a top-two finish in their pool, which meant they were out. Last year, the Red, Black, and White placed sixth. They’re going to finish lower than that this year.
On Thursday evening, in a must-win final group match, Grey College dominated Maritzburg College, handing the Pietermaritzburg school a 3-0 defeat, and that spelt the end of the KwaZulu-Natalians’ title hopes.
Among the others who missed out on the quarterfinals were Brebner, Glenwood, the tournament host, Kimberley Boys’ High, and Victoria Park, from Gqeberha.
On Friday, the stakes were raised with semi-final places on the line. There was success for one of the local sides, Wildeklawer Academy, which had topped Group A, ahead of Paul Roos Gimnasium, Kimberley Boys’ High, Glenwood, and Potchefstroom Boys’ High. recording three wins and a draw.
In the quarterfinals, they faced Norkem Park High School, who placed second in their group, behind Clapham High. The locals produced a dominating performance, triumphing 4-1, which showcased their ambition to go all the way. On Saturday, the Wildeklawer Academy will face a tough challenge against the defending champions, Clapham, in the semi-finals.
The Pretoria school is aiming to emulate the success of HTS Louis Botha, who won the tournament in both 2022 and 2023, by also winning back-to-back titles. They impressed in the quarterfinals, scoring a comfortable 3-0 win over Paul Roos.
HTS Louis Botha also advanced to the final four. They finished second in Group C, behind Virginia High School, but they showed off their championship pedigree by winning their quarterfinal clash against their Bloemfontein rivals, Grey College, by a 3-1 margin.
Their reward was a rematch of their Group C clash with Virginia High, which had ended 0-0. Virginia progressed after a 1-0 defeat of Navalsig High.
RESULTS
Thursday, 1 May
Group A
Wildeklawer Academy 4-1 Potchefstroom Boy’s High
Paul Roos Gimnasium 0-0 Glenwood
Kimberley Boys’ High School 2-2 Glenwood High School
Glenwood High School 4-1 Potchefstroom Boy’s High
Kimberley Boys’ High School 2-0 Potchefstroom Boy’s High
Group B
Norkem Park High School 2-0 Northern Academy
Clapham High School 1-0 Norkem Park High School
Emmang Mmogo High School 4-1 Northwood School
Clapham High School 5-1 Northwood School
Northern Academy 2-1 Emmang Mmogo High School
Group C
Reddam House Bedfordview 1-1 Victoria Park High School
HTS Louis Botha 0-0 Virginia High School
Victoria Park High School 0-0 Brebner High School
Virginia High School 2-0 Reddam House Bedfordview
HTS Louis Botha 6-0 Reddam House Bedfordview
Virginia High School 2-0 Brebner High School
Group D
Jeppe High School for Boys 2-0 Border Schools
Navalsig High School 1-0 Maritzburg College
Grey College 2-0 Navalsig High School
Maritzburg College 1-1 Border Schools
Grey College 3-0 Maritzburg College
Navalsig High School 2-1 Jeppe High School for Boys
Friday, 2 May
Quarterfinals
Virginia High School 1-0 Navalsig High School
Clapham high school 3-0 Paul Roos Gimnasium
HTS Louis Botha 3-1 Grey College
Wildeklawer Academy 4 – 1 Norkem High School
Saturday, 3 May
Semifinals
09:00 – Clapham High School vs Wildeklawer Academy
09:00 – HTS Louis Botha vs Virginia High School
The highly anticipated Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament kicked off on Wednesday, with some of the big guns, including Clapham High School and Maritzburg College, immediately making their mark by scoring important victories.
The host, Kimberley Boys’ High, was held to a goalless draw by the Wildeklawer Academy in a local clash. That left Paul Roos Gimnasium to top Group A after a slim 1-0 victory over Potchefstroom Boys’ High.
The reigning champions, Clapham, started their campaign with a 1-0 win over another formidable opponent, Northern Academy, the current titleholders of the Kay Motsepe Soccer Schools Championship. The match was a closely contested battle, with both teams showing that they are among the strongest title contenders.
Meanwhile, in another Group B game, Emmang Mmogo High School played to a 2-2 draw with Norkem Park High School.
In Group C, the two-time champion of the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament, HTS Louis Botha tackled Brebner in a meeting of two Bloemfontein titans. There was little to separate the sides and the contest ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
With HTS Louis Botha and Brebner High School dropping points, Victoria Park High School, from Gqeberha, and Virginia High School had an opportunity to take the lead in Group C. The Eastern Cape side grabbed hold of the chance, scoring a 2-1 win to earn themselves three points.
Maritzburg College, who finished in sixth place in 2024, started their campaign on a high note, beating an in-form Jeppe High School for Boys team, making their debut in the tournament, 3-1.
The prolific striker Mazithi Qasha scored a brace, while Wandile Zondile struck from long range to propel the Red, Black,andWhiteto a convincing win. Qasha, who has been scoring goals for fun, was named the man of the match following his outstanding performance.
Grey College, last year’s runner-up, is in Group D with College and Jeppe. The group also features Border Schools and Navalsig High.
Grey kicked off their title challenge with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Border Schools. It appeared as if the contest was headed for a goalless draw, but Grey conjured up a winner in the last 10 seconds to steal the three points on offer to the winner.
RESULTS
Group A
Kimberley Boys’ High 0-0 Wildeklawer Academy
Paul Roos Gimnasium 1-0 Potchefstroom Boys’ High
Group B
Clapham High 1-0 Northern Academy
Emmang Mmogo 2-2 Norkem Park
Group C
HTS Louis Botha 0-0 Brebner
Victoria Park 2-1 Virginia High
Group D
Maritzburg College 3-1 Jeppe
Grey College 1-0 Border Schools
The Hillcrest High 1st XI Football Team. Photo. Nsindiso Majola – Hillcrest High School’s Head of Football.
Following an impressive start by Hillcrest High to the Mancosa KwaZulu Natal Schools Football Association (KZNHSFA) Second-Term League, SuperSport Schools Plus caught up with Hillcrest‘s coach, Cayle Marillier, to discuss his role, the team’s performance, and the objectives they have set for this year.
Marillier began his coaching career in 2015 after matriculating from Kloof High School, where he also played first-team cricket and football, both of which he described as his fervent passions.
Although Hillcrest recruited him primarily as a cricket coach, his enthusiasm for football always remained significant.
“It’s something (football) that I was always very passionate about and I love it. It was always my second favourite sport, something that I wanted to pursue more, and on the coaching side, just because I really enjoy it,” he said.
During his first two years of coaching at Hillcrest High, Marillier took charge of the u16A team. He had lost out to Covid-19 in 2020. However, in 2022, things began to come together as Hillcrest scored nine wins, two draws, and lost only one of their 12 matches.
Following two successful seasons with the u16 squad, Marillier transitioned to the role of assistant coach for the first team, where he began by taking on various on-field and off-field responsibilities.
Hillcrest’s XI coach, Cayle Marillier. Photo. Nsindiso Majola
Now, having spent three years with the first team, Marillier said he thoroughly enjoys every aspect of the challenge.
“I’m not the most qualified person to be doing the job,” he said humbly, “but I’m very enthusiastic about the kids and about getting results with them. When I first got the role, I was very understanding of the boys that I dealt with in the squad because I coached them in the previous couple of years in the u16 team.”
Reflecting on the last year’s group, he noted that it was significantly different from the 2025 squad. The unit is more cohesive now, Marillier explained.
“I think everyone’s a lot more of a unit, which is nice. It gives the team a very different dynamic, and we have been achieving a little bit.”
He told SuperSport Schools Plus that they achieved their objectives at the beginning of the season by starting with two important wins, contrasting that with last year when Hillcrest made a shaky start. In 2024, Marillier said, a negative mindset infiltrated early on, which hindered Hillcrest’s progress.
Expounding on his role and enthusiasm for the sport, Marillier said his greatest satisfaction comes from understanding his players’ journeys and assisting them in recognising the reasons behind their actions. Witnessing the players develop into young men is what truly inspires him about football.
One of the most challenging aspects of coaching school football, for both coaches and players, is resetting their goals, he opined. Regardless of whether teams experience failure or success, the next match or practice is always approaching rapidly. Time is an uncontrollable factor, so the sooner one can recover from a setback, the more effectively one can navigate future challenges.
Hillcrest’s season was given a big boost on Tuesday, 22 April, when they beat the defending champions of the Mancosa Second-Term League, Glenwood High School, 2-0.
From left to right: Nsindiso, Head of Football at Hillcrest and Cayle Marillier. Photo. Supplied.
Marillier said Hillcrest has a good relationship with Glenwood. In 2024, they played two friendlies and also met in the league, and they learnt lessons from those games. So, when they met Glenwood again this year, they made sure to play their game and believe in themselves.
It’s Hillcrest High’s goal to compete this year, Marilier told SuperSport Schools Plus.
“We don’t see ourselves as favourites to win the league or tournaments. We see ourselves as underdogs in every game. That keeps us humble,” he said.
He said staying humble keeps the players diligent and motivated.
Hillcrest will aim to challenge for trophies, Marillier explained, but he acknowledged that the challenges awaiting them were tough. Nonetheless, he hoped for favourable outcomes in tournaments, including in the nearby Kloof High School National Football Tournament.
“We would like to compete for one of the trophies at the Kloof Tournament,” he admitted. “We are realistic and we do understand that the likes of HTS Louis Botha are very good football teams.
“I think it would be difficult and slightly unrealistic to say we want to win the Cup, but to win the Plate is a very realistic goal for us. We are hoping to compete there, and, overall, to achieve more. Our boys want to enjoy football at the end of the day,” he concluded.
The Mancosa KZNHSFA Coastal and Inland Leagues will resume next week, with some of the KZN schools currently competing in tournaments, including the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament, which began on Wednesday in Kimberley.
Recently, in a recent exclusive interview, SuperSport Schools Plusspoke with the Headmaster of Kimberley Boys’ High School, Xolile Taba, the host of the tournament, to discuss the preparations, the tournament’s origins, and its development over the years.
History of the Absa Wildeklawer Tournament
To understand the Absa Wildklawer Soccer Tournament, Taba took us back to the founding of Wildeklawer Sport in 2009, by Louis and Cora de Kock, the owners of Wildeklawer. It began with a dozen rugby teams.
With the rugby event proving to be a huge success, netball was then included. More recently, in 2022, football was added to the event, with Louis Bothawinning the inaugural Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament.
“It was one of the discussions that we had with the organisers of the tournament when they approached the school (Kimberley Boys’ High School), looking to use the facilities. It made sense because we are predominantly a soccer school. We then proposed that our school should be added to the tournament, so that our boys can also participate. That’s how the discussion started.”
Taba said he also took a hard look at rugby on the Wildeklawer website. He noted how many future Springboks developed their game at the tournament, and that led to him recognising the value of participating in the Wildeklawer Tournament.
Given the challenges associated with managing football in the country, he said he was eager to be involved in a tournament that upholds high standards of integrity. Furthermore, he acknowledged that Wildeklawer was committed to nurturing potential football players who might one day represent national teams.
“And I must say, even though we started in 2022, we already see the results, with some of the players playing in the Multichoice Diski Challenge. Some of them, from the schools that have participated in this tournament, have also been playing in the National Soccer League.”
Overcoming early challenges
Kimberley Boys’ High School Headmaster, Xolile Taba. Photo. Supplied.
Taba said that the primary obstacle for his team and the stakeholders was a fear of age cheating.
Football needed to be integrated into a system that had been functioning effectively for years without causing disruption. The critical challenge was how to conduct a legitimate tournament that aligned with the highest standards of integrity upheld by Absa Wildeklawer Sport.
Another crucial component of the challenge was which teams to invite. Without any experience of hosting a football tournament, that was new ground that had to be covered. Thus, in the beginning, teams were invited without the use of any criteria. As it gained momentum, performance became a key consideration for the qualification of sides for the tournament.
Last year, the top eight teams were automatically selected for the 2025 event, which was another reflection of the growth of the tournament.
A schools’ ranking system is also used to select the schools, which, now, also includes sides performing at the top level of South African and development football.
Taba said those challenges have been met and overcome. Now, the challenge has become which schools to leave out as top schools are eager to be a part of the prestigious event.
Growth of the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament
“In 2022 we started with eight teams, with 144 players and 16 officials, and I’m glad that we grew. In 2023, it was 16 teams, double the number. We had 288 players and 32 officials.
“Last year, we had 20 teams, and this year we are still going to be 20 teams, with 360 players and 40 officials,” Taba said.
Through livestream platforms, like SuperSport Schools, talent scouts are identifying players from the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament. This year, scouts have, once again, been invited to attend. Those unable to make it in person can watch the matches live on SuperSport Schools.
Some talented players who participated in the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament have moved on to make their mark at a higher level. They include Sechaba Gaseitsiwe, from Kimberley Boys’ High, who joined the Mamelodi Sundowns DDC Team in 2024, and Mateo Horstead, who captained Maritzburg College, and now plays for the AmaZulu DDC Team.
Sechaba Gaseitsiwea, formely a learner at Kimberley Boys’ High, turned out for Galeshewe FC during the 2024 Engen Cup Champ of Champs at Wits Mark Park, in Johannesburg. Photo. Soccer Laduma.
Sense of Community and Belonging
Taba said the tournament also helps to steer children away from crime and drugs.
It also facilitates the formation of communities among schools and administrators, fostering an exchange of ideas and strategies for organising a successful event, he added.
By learning from schools, like Victoria Park High School and Grey College, which hosts the renowned annual Nedbank Grey Soccer Tournament, Taba said valuable lessons could be learnt.
He also acknowledged the significant contribution of the Kimberley community to the success of the tournament.
Taba described the Absa Wildklawer Soccer Tournament as the main event on the schools’ calendar for Kimberley.
“It’s an event we want not only to keep but to grow as well,” he concluded.
NAME OF PARTICIPATING SCHOOL
FINAL POSITION
2024
SA SCHOOLS RANKING
CLAPHAM HIGH SCHOOL
1
7
GREY COLLEGE
2
1
HTS LOUIS BOTHA
3
11
KIMBERLEY BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL
4
27
PAUL ROOS GIMNASIUM
5
16
MARITZBURG COLLEGE
6
3
VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL
7
5
EMMANG MMOGO HIGH SCHOOL
8
Not ranked
NAVALSIG HIGH SCHOOL
9
12
WILDEKLAWER ACADEMY
10
Not ranked
NORKEM HIGH SCHOOL
11
31
POTCHEFSTROOM BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL
12
47
GLENWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
13
29
SELBORNE COLLEGE
14
68
BREBNER HIGH SCHOOL
15
42
NORTHWOOD SCHOOL
16
41
NORTHERN ACADEMY
17
MOTSEPE NATIONAL CHAMPS.
VICTORIA PARK
18
23
REDDAM BEDFORDVIEW
19
24
JEPPE HIGH SCHOOL FOR BOYS
20
14
Note: Northern Academy, Victoria Park High School, Reddam House Bedfordview, and Jeppe High School for Boys are the newcomers to the Absa Wilderklawer Soccer Tournament.
Positions 1 to 16 reflect last year’s final rankings.
GROUPS
Group A
Kimberley Boys’ High School, Potchefstroom High School for Boys, Paul Roos Gimnasium, Glenwood High School, Wildeklawer Academy
Group B
Clapham High School, Norkem Park High School, Emmang Mmogo, Northwood School, Northern Academy
Group C
HTS Louis Botha, Victoria Park High School, Virginia High School, Reddam House Bedfordview, Brebner High School
Group D
Grey College, Jeppe High School for Boys, Maritzburg College, Navalsig High School, Selborne College
FIXTURES
Wednesday, 30 April
SPU 1 – 14:00 – Kimberely Boys’ High vs Wildeklawer
SPU 1 – 15:00 – Victoria Park High School vs Brebner
SPU 1 – 16:00 – Paul Ross vs Glenwood
SPU 1 – 17:00 – Virginia High School vs Reddam House
SPU 2 – 14:00 – Norkem vs Northern Academy
SPU 2 – 15:00 – Jeppe High School for Boys vs Selborne College
SPU 2 – 16:00 – Emang Mmogo vs Northwood School
SPU2 – 17:00 – Maritzburg College vs Navalsig
Thursday, 1 May
SPU 1 – 08:30 – Potchefstroom vs Wildeklawer
SPU 1 – 09:30 – HTS Louis Botha vs Brebner
SPU 1 – 10:30 – Potchefstroom vs Paul Ross
SPU 1 – 11:30 – Victoria Park High School vs Virginia High
SPU 1 – 13:30 – Kimberley Boys’ High School vs Glenwood
SPU 1 – 14:30 – HTS Louis Botha vs Reddam House
SPU 1 – 15:30 – Wildeklawer vs Paul Roos
SPU 1 – 16:30 – Brebner vs Virginia High
SPU 1 – 18:00 – Kimberley Boys’ High School vs Paul Ross
SPU 1 – 19:00 – HTS Louis Botha vs Virginia High School
SPU 1 – 20:00 – Glenwood vs Potchefstroom
SPU 2 – 08:30 – Clapham High School vs Northern Academy
SPU 2 – 09:30 – Grey College vs Selborne College
SPU 2 – 10:30 – Norkem vs Emang Mmogo
SPU 2 – 11:30 – Jeppe High School for Boys vs Maritzburg College
SPU 2 – 13:00 – Clapham High School vs Northwood School
SPU 2 – 14:30 – Grey College vs Navalsig
SPU 2 – 15:30 – Northern Academy vs Emang Mmogo
SPU 2 – 16:30 – Selborne College vs Maritzburg College
SPU 2 – 18:00 – Clapham High School vs Emang Mmogo
SPU 2 – 19:00 – Grey College vs Maritzburg College
SPU 2 – 20:00 – Northwood School vs Norkem
Friday, 2 May
SPU 1 – 08:30 – Reddam House vs Victoria Park High School
SPU 1 – 09:30 – Kimberley Boys’ High School vs Potchefstroom
SPU 1 – 10:30 – HTS Louis Botha vs Victoria Park High School
SPU 1 – 11:30 – Glenwood vs Wildeklawer
SPU 1 – 12:30 – Reddam House vs Brebner
SPU 2 – 08:30 – Navalsig vs Jeppe High School for Boys
SPU 2 – 09:30 – Clapham High School vs Norkem
SPU 2 – 10:30 – Grey College vs Jeppe High School for Boys
SPU 2 – 11:30 – Northwood School vs Northern Academy
SPU 2 – 12:30 – Navalsig vs Selborne College
4 Pools of 5 Pools Teams (Top 2 in Pool proceed to quarterfinals)
SPU 1 – 15:30 – Winner Pool A vs Runner-up Pool B
SPU 1 – 16:30 – Winner Pool B vs Runner-up Pool A
SPU 2 – 15:30 – Winner Pool C vs Runner-up Pool D
SPU 2 – 16:30 – Winner Pool D vs Runner-up Pool C
Saturday, 3 May
Semifinals
SPU 1 – Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match 4
SPU 2 – Winner Match 2 vs Winner Match 4
People have been talking about it, and it has finally arrived. The Curro Halala Cup made its debut nationwide this week, with matches aired on SuperSport Schools Channel 216 on DStv and the SuperSport Schools App.
The first day of the competition, on Wednesday, fulfilled expectations.
HeronBridge College was the first team eliminated from the tournament after suffering a defeat against The King’s School Linbro Park. In a high-scoring affair, King’s Linbro advanced after a comfortable 5-2 victory.
Curro Soshanguve moved on to the next round after having to go to a penalty shootout against Curro Pretoria. The sides shared a 1-1 draw, but Curro Soshanguve got through 5-4 from the spot.
In the Western Cape, Curro Somerset West and Camps Bay High School also progressed, with Curro Somerset West scoring a thrilling 4-3 win over Curro Sandown, while Camps Bay High School outplayed Somerset College, winning 4-1.
Curro Mbombela was eliminated by Sitintile Secondary School, going down 0-1 in a match played at Curro Nelspruit, while Curro Clayville moved on with a tight 1-0 win over Meridian Karino.
Westenburg Secondary School saw off Sebitja Secondary School, winning 3-0, and Louis Trichardt High School claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Happy Day Combined School.
On Thursday, Clapham High School joined Wednesday’s winners in advancing to the next round of the Curro Halala Cup.
In a much-anticipated Tshwane derby, Clapham faced Rosina Sedibane Modiba Sports School at HeronBridge College. The defending champions of the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament and current titleholders of the IberCup South Africa reigned supreme, scoring a 2-0 victory.
In another game at HeronBridge College, Curro Thatchfield delivered an outstanding performance to eliminate The King’s School Robin Hills by a 3-1 margin.
Playing at home, the reigning champions of the Kay Motsepe Soccer Schools championship, Northern Academy, advanced to the next phase after defeating HTSTom Naude 2-0.
Along with Clapham, Northern Academy, coached by the seasoned Hendrick Mukwevho, is regarded as one of the title favourites, based on their impressive track record and championship mindset.
In another match at Northern Academy, Florapark Comprehensive High School defeated The Future Comprehensive High School 4-1.
In the Western Cape, the opening match of the second day of first-round fixtures featured Meridian Pinehurst at Curro Century City.
At the end of regulation time, the teams were level at 2-2, but Meridan Pinehurst claimed victory 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
Milnerton High School, meanwhile, enjoyed a comfortable victory, dominating against Wellington College to move on after a 5-1 win.
Wednesday’s and Thursday’s winners will be in action in the next round of the Curro Halala Cup in May.
RESULTS
Wednesday, 23 April
Westenburg Secondary School 3-0 Sebitja Secondary School
Louis Trichardt High School 1-0 Happy Day Combined School
Curro Somerset West 4-3 Curro Sandown
Camps Bay High School 4-1 Somerset College
The King’s School Linbro Park 5-2 Heronbridge College
Curro Soshanguve (5) 1-1 (4) Curro Pretoria
Sitintile Secondary School 1-0 Curro Mbombela
Curro Clayville 1-0 Meridian Karino
Thursday, 24 April
Florapark Comprehensive High School 4-1 The Future Comprehensive High School
Northern Academy 2-0 Tom Naude Technical High School
Meridian Pinehurst (4) 2-2 (2) Curro Century City
Milnerton High School 5-1 Westville College
Curro Thatchfield 3-1 The King’s School Robin Hills
Clapham High School 2-0 Rosina Sedibane Modiba Sports School
Round two of the Mancosa KwaZulu Natal High Schools Football Association (KZNSHFA) Coastal and Inland leagues lit up football venues in Durban and Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday.
While some established powers, like Maritzburg College, made their mark, others, including Westville Boys’ High and Glenwood, found themselves facing stiff battles.
Coastal A League
In the Coastal A League, the competition has been intense. On Tuesday, the status quo was challenged when Hillcrest High School defeated the reigning champions, Glenwood High School, 2-0
It has been a sub-standard start to the season for the Green Machine when compared to their usual standards, and goals from Banele Ngongoma and Aiden Whitby secured Hillcrest a treasured win. Coach Cayle Marillier‘s Hillcrest team appears to be back to their competitive ways after a tough season in 2024.
Empangeni High School scored their first win of the season by defeating Northwood School 2-1. It was Northwood’s second consecutive loss after Hillcrest beat them 1-0 in the opening round of the league.
Port Shepstone is in strong early season form and has scored six times without conceding in their two outings. They appear to be well-balanced and have already established themselves as a potential title contender.
On Tuesday, Sheppiedefeated Bechet 2-0. In their season opener, they cruised to a commanding 4-0 win over Empangeni.
Inland A League
The second round of the Inland A league rained goals. That was a welcome development after a disappointing first round that was marred by rain, which led to some teams having to share the points. Entering the second week, teams were focused on bagging three points for a win.
Edendale Technical High School,eager to succeed, recorded a 2-0 victory over Haythorne Secondary School, on Barns Field, at Maritzburg College, thanks to goals from Wandile Madlala and Bekwa Alwande, which earned their side three crucial points.
The defending champions, Carter High School, had to settle for a second draw in succession. They finished 1-1 against Ixopo Secondary School, thanks to a goal from Amukelwa Khuzwayo.
Maritzburg College’s prolific striker and vice-captain, Mazithi Qasha, netted twice in a 4-2 win over Alexandra High School, with Malachi Momple, also a vice-captain, and Siphelele Sibiya contributing the other goals for the Red, Black,and White.
Linpark High School claimed a convincing 3-0 victory over Newton.
RESULTS
Coastal A League
Hillcrest High School 2-0 Glenwood High School
Westville Boys’ High School 1-1 Pinetown Boys’ High
Empangeni High School 2-1 Northwood School
Port Shepstone 2-0 Bechet
Inland A League
Edendale Technical High School 2-0 Haythorne Secondary School
Carter High School 1-1 Ixopo Secondary School
Linpark High School 3-0 Newtown
Maritzburg College 4-2 Alexandra High School
Forthcoming Fixtures
Coastal B league: Thursday, 24 April
Venue: Queensburgh High School
Field 1
15:00 – Amanzimtoti vs Sastri
16:05 – Durban High School vs Queensburgh High School
Field 2
15:10 – Grosvenor vs New Forest
16:05 – Ashton Ballito vs Redwood
Coastal C League: Friday, 25 April
Venue: Queensburgh High School
Field 1
15:10 – George Campbell vs Canaan College
16:05 – Birdswood vs Durban Academy
Field 2
15:10 – Brettonwood vs Canaan College
16:05 – Ashton Ballito Team B vs George Campbell
Inland B League: Thursday, 24 April
Venue: Alexandra High School
Field 1
15:00 – Alexandra High School vs Riverwood
16:05 – Heritage Academy vs ML Sultan
Field 2
Thornhill vs Northbury
Maritzburg College Team B vs Maritzburg Christian School
Inland C League: Friday, 25 April
Venue: AB Jackson
15:00 – Maritzburg College Team C vs Umvuzo
16:05 – Michaelhouse vs Newtown Team B
This week’s highlight in the Mancosa KZNHSFA Inland A League is a clash between Edendale Technical High School and Haythorne Secondary School, which will be played on Barns Field at Maritzburg College.
In a pre-match interview with SuperSport Schools Plus, Mxolisi Mchunu, the head coach of Edendale’s first team, expressed his straightforward ambition to secure the league title this season.
Edendale is a distinguished and highly regarded school within the South African school football community. In recent years, it has played both direct and indirect roles in fostering the development of South African football, particularly by contributing to the girls’ national junior teams.
The boys’ team at Edendale has also garnered attention. In 2024, they were one of the top teams in the nation, achieving promotion to the KZNHSFA Inland A League after competing in the Inland B League. Additionally, they captured the prestigious Siyabonga Nomvethe Schools Cup in October.
Mchunu emphasised the significance of Edendale’s participation in those competitions and the school’s successes, stating that they boost morale and motivate the players. He expressed confidence that they will continue to make him proud this year, just as they have in the past.
Despite stepping up to the Inland A League for the first time, Mchunu confidently stated that his team is determined to compete for the championship. He said his team has lost several players from last year’s squad but this has also opened doors for other young players.
“Yes, we did lose five of our key players. One was doing matric last year and others [are not available] due to age, but we always ensure that we do have the young players and we promoted some this year,” he explained.
As Easter tournaments are being held nationwide, football clubs and academies have summoned their players to take part in various competitions. Because of this, Mchunu acknowledged that the holiday period has limited his players’ preparation time for Tuesday’s match. However, he expressed his confidence in his players’ ability to perform and produce a strong effort.
FIXTURES
Tuesday, 22 April
Coastal A League
Venue: Queensburgh High School
15:00 Field 1 – Glenwood High School vs Hillcrest High School
Field 2 – Westville Boys’ High School vs Pinetown Boys’ High
16:15
Field 1 – Empangeni High School vs Northwood School
Field 2 – Bechet vs Port Shepstone
Inland A League
Venue: Barns Field
15:00 – Edendale vs Haythorne
16:05 – Carter High School vs Ixopo Secondary School
Venue: Alexandra High School
15:00 – Alexandra High School vs Maritzburg College
16:05 – Newtown vs Linpark
From left to right, Dan Haswell (Chairperson, Mancosa KZNHSFA), Loshnee Bridgmohan (Marketing Manager, Mancosa), and Prof Magnate Ntombela (Principal, Mancosa).
The Management College of Southern Africa (Mancosa) KZNHSFA season started with Coastal A League and Inland A League matches on Tuesday, 15 April, delivering a mix of exciting and tough outcomes.
In a discussion regarding Mancosa‘s sponsorship of the KZNHSFA, the league’s chairperson, Daniel Haswell, shared a few thoughts with Brad Morgan from SuperSport Schools Plus.
Haswell observed that this partnership is beneficial as it provides educational opportunities, including potential bursaries for standout players who impress. He explained that the partnership with Mancosa has been a project in development for years and is well-suited to the structure of the KZNHSFA.
“They have been observing the stability, the continuity and the quality of the league over the last few years, hence them coming on board,” he said.
Speaking at the official launch of the Mancosa KZNHSFA, Loshnee Bridgmohan, marketing manager of Mancosa, added that the heartbeat of the Mancosa KZNHSFA is to create an environment for young people to learn, compete, grow and lead. At Mancosa, Bridgmohan said, they do not just want to witness greatness, but they want to build it.
“At Mancosa, we believe in shaping futures, and we know that education and sport go hand in hand,” she said.
“Both teach discipline, both demand commitment and both offer the most rewarding kind of victory, which is personal growth. That is why this partnership is not just about the sponsorship; it’s about standing beside young people as they chase their goals on the field and in life.”
Westville Boys’ High School in action against Bechet.
Bridgmohan explained that over the next few months, from April to October, more than 72 schools will take part in more than 100 matches across the province. This presents more than 100 opportunities for youth to excel, communities to unite and talent to be identified.
“It’s going to be a season of energy, excitement and unforgettable moments, and Mancosa is honoured to be part of every step, every goal, every celebration,” Bridgmohan enthused.
“From Mancosa, here’s to bold dreams, top-corner goals and a future that is always in play.”
Coastal A League
Port Shepstone High School is at the forefront of the Coastal A League following their impressive performance against Empangeni High School at Queensburgh High School.
Empangeni, which secured its promotion from the Coastal B League to the Coastal A League for the 2024 season, faced a challenging start in their first match of the season, losing 0-4 to Port Shepstone, thereby providing PSHS with a solid foundation for the season ahead.
Northwood School started their season on an equally challenging note, suffering a 1-2 defeat against Hillcrest High School, while Westville Boys’ High School secured a victory in their opening match against Bechet High School, winning 1-0 and earning three points.
The reigning champions of the Coastal A League, Glenwood High School, continued their success into the 2025 season, securing a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Pinetown Boys’ High at Queensburgh High School. The Pinetown Boys displayed remarkable resilience, putting up a strong fight even as they faced defeat against Glenwood. However, three crucial goals by Aphelele Magwaza, Ukwazi Dludla and Bandile Mbatha secured a vital victory for Glenwood in their season opener.
Micah Edom (Grade 10) of Glenwood High School on the attack against Pinetown Boys’ High. Photo. Brad Morgan
Inland A League
The opening day of the Mancosa KZNHSFA saw no goals scored in the Inland B League, with Carter High School, the reigning champions, and Maritzburg College, the competition’s runners-up, headlining the Inland B league fixtures.
At Barns Field, where Maritzburg College faced their long-standing rival amidst rainy conditions in the capital, the match concluded with a 0-0 draw.
Edendale Technical High School, which earned promotion from the Inland B League to the Inland A League in 2024, launched their campaign against Linpark High School with a 0-0 draw, with both teams earning a point.
Similarly, Alexandra High School‘s encounter with Newtown and the final match of the day, between Haythorne Secondary School and Ixopo Secondary School, both ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
Coastal A results
Westville Boys’ High School 1-0 Bechet
Hillcrest High School 2-1 Northwood School
Port Shepstone 4-0 Empangeni High School
Glenwood High School 3-2 Pinetown Boys’ High
Inland B results
Maritzburg College 0-0 Carter High School
Alexandra High School 0-0 Newtown
Edendale Technical High School 0-0 Linpark High School
Haythorne Secondary School 0-0 Ixopo Secondary School
The annual St Stithians College sports festival, known as Saints Sportsfest and sponsored by Standard Bank, is scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 16 April, to Monday, 21 April, at St Stithians College.
The Saints Sportsfest features an exciting football tournament that has become a highlight of the event. Notable schools, including St Benedict’s College, Falcon College (Zimbabwe), Jeppe High School for Boys and St Peter’s College, will compete for the championship title in 2025.
Since its establishment in 1984, the Saints Sportsfest has evolved significantly, representing a celebration of sports, camaraderie and enjoyment.
The football matches will take place on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Monday.
Wednesday, 16 April
Venue: Jameson Field
Boys’ Competition
Field 1 – 11:30 – St Peter’s College vs St Benedicts’ College
Field 1 – 12:40 – Falcon College vs Thandulwazi Academy
Field 1 – 13:50 – Reddam House Constantia vs Waterstone College High School
Field 1 – 15:00 – St Stithians Boys’ College vs Jeppe High School for Boys
Girls’ Competition
Field 2 – 11:30 – St Cyprian’s School vs St Peter’s College
Field 2 – 12:40 – St Stithias Girls’ College 1st Team vs Reddam House Constantia
Field 2 – 13:50 – Curro Edenvale High School vs Chisipite Senior School
Field 2 – 15:00 – St Stithians Girls’ College 2nd Team vs Springfield Convent School
Field 2 – 17:00 – St Cyprian’s vs Chipisite Senior School
Field 2 – 17:00 – St Stithians Girls’ College 2nd Team vs Reddam House Constantia
Thursday, 17 April
Boys’ Competition
Field 1 – 08:00 – St Stithians Boys’ College vs Thandulwazi Academy
Field 2 – 08:00 – St Benedict’s College vs Reddam House Constantia
Field 1 – 09:15 – Jeppe High School for Boys vs Waterstone College High School
Field 2 – 10:15 – St Peter’s College vs Falcon College
Field 1 – 14:30 – St Stithians Boys’ College vs Falcon College
Field 2 – 14:30 – Jeppe High School for Boys vs Reddam House Constantia
Field 1 – 15:40 – St Benedict’s College vs Waterstone College High School
Field 2 – 15:40 – St Peter’s College vs Thandulwazi Academy
Girls’ Competition
Field 2 – 09:15 – St Stithians Girls’ College 1st Team vs Springfield Convent School
Field 1 – 10:30 – St Peter’s College vs Curro Edenvale High School
Field 1 – 11:45 – Reddam House Constantia vs Chipisite Senior School
Field 2 – 11:45 – St Stithians Girls’ College 2nd Team vs Cyprian’s School
Field 1 – 16:50 – Springfield Convent School vs Chipisite Senior School
Field 2 – 16:50 – St Cyprian’s School vs Springfield Convent School
Saturday, 19 April
Boys’ Competition
Field 1 – 09:15 – St Stithians Boys’ College vs Reddam House Constantia
Field 1 – 10:30 – Jeppe High School for Boys vs Falcon College
Field 2 – 10:30 – St Benedict’s College vs Thandulwazi Academy
Field 2 – 11:45 – St Peter’s College vs Waterstone College High School
Field 1 – 14:45 – Reddam House Constantia vs Thandulwazi Academy
Field 2 – 14:45 – St Benedict’s College vs Falcon College
Field 1 – 15:30 – St Peter’s College vs Jeppe High School for Boys
Field 2 – 15:30 – St Stithians Boys’ College vs Waterstone College High School
Girls’ Competition
Field 1 – 08:00 – St Stithians Girls’ College vs Chipisite Senior School
Field 2 – 08:00 – Springfield Convent School vs St Peter’s College
Field 2 – 09:15 – Reddam House Constantia vs Curro Edennvale High School
Field 1 – 11:45 – Reddam House Constantia vs Springfield Convent School
Field 1 – 13:00 – Reddam House Constantia vs St Peter’s College
Field 2 – 13:00 – St Stithians Girls’ College 1st Team vs Curro Edenvale High School
Field 1 – 16:45 – St Stithians Girls’ College 1st Team vs St Cyprian’s School
Field 2 – 16:45 – St Stithians Girls’ College 2nd Team vs St Peter’s College
The annual St Stithians College sports festival, known as Saints Sportsfest and sponsored by Standard Bank, is scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 16 April, to Monday, 21 April, at St Stithians College.