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The annual SASHOC National Weeks are the biggest platforms for South Africa’s most outstanding hockey players to showcase their skills, bringing the best of the best together to do battle for provincial supremacy.

The u18 tournament, which kicks off on 30 June, concludes with the crowning of the national champions on 5 July after seven days of high-quality hockey action.

The showpiece will be hosted by KwaZulu-Natal Inland, and matches will be played at Maritzburg College (boys) and St Anne’s (girls).

During the season, KZN Inland schools regularly compete with schools from the KZN Coastal region, and it is from these two areas that we have drawn our list of boys’ players to watch.

Siwe Sithembu (KZN Inland)

Sithembu is a dynamic midfielder with exceptional skills in the middle of the park and is a dangerman on the attack. The Maritzburg College star possesses a sharp drag flick and is a handful at penalty corners time.

Mark Sanders, his coach at Maritzburg College, describes him as a natural goal-scorer.

Sithembu has represented Maritzburg College’s first team for three years in a row. He captained the KZN Inland u16A team at last year’s IPTs.

He was also picked for the SA u16A squad and was selected for the SA u17 team that competed in the Dato Mirnawan Cup in Malaysia late last year.

Bhavesh Naicker (KZN Coastal)

Naicker was a rock at the back for the Durban High School (DHS) hockey first team this year. His composure at centre-back when under pressure is second to none and this allows the team a good platform from which to attack from.

His coach at DHS, Keegan Hezlett says Naicker has an acute ability to read the game, which allows him to make vital interceptions and tackles.

The DHS defender made the SA u16 side in 2022 and 2023 and was selected for the SA u17 Team last year.

Naicker also represented the KZN Raiders Men’s Indoor Hockey team earlier this year at the Men’s Indoor IPT in Johannesburg.

Gordon Deutscher (KZN Inland)

Deutscher has been a standout striker for Michaelhouse this season, netting an impressive 18 goals. He has been, undoubtedly, one of the key performers in an outstanding campaign by the Balgowan boys.

His ‘House coach, Nick Bérichon, says Deutscher has an elite mentality. He demands the highest standards from himself and those around him.

Deutscher is a dynamic, attacking force, who excels in and around the circle, and boasts a full repertoire of goalscoring techniques. His pace and confidence on the ball make him a constant threat when running at defenders.

He is also a well-rounded player with an equally impressive defensive work rate, which frequently results in him winning the ball back and thrusting pressure back onto the opposition.

Zach Williamson (KZN Coastal)

Williamson represented Clifton College’s first team 94 times in a goal-filled high school career. The midfielder was at the forefront of many of Clifton’s victories and provided the side with an authoratitive presence in the midfield.

Williamson took on the privilege of captaining Clifton with both hands and led from the front, with his play being characterised by an incredible work rate on and off the ball, in attack and on defence.

“Zach’s basics and understanding of the game of hockey has been special to watch, and being our specialist off the top [of the circle] with over 10 goals this season shows you his all-round ability,” Calvin Price, the Clifton coach, shared.

Kyle White (KZN Coastal)

Northwood was one of the toughest teams to beat in the KZN league this season. Part of the reason for that was the structure they were tasked with by their coach, Justin Collins. A larger part of that was the team’s ability to execute what was required of them, and at the head of that execution was Kyle White.

The Northwood captain, also the captain of the Knights’ 1st XI cricket side, displayed exceptional leadership qualities on the field, with his calm, composed approach to the fore.

He marshalled the Northwood defence well and ensured that they were very tough to score on. The centre-back was also brilliant in one-vs-one situations.

Seth Simpson (KZN Coastal)

Westville had a tough season, fielding a young side that was still feeling its way in high-level hockey. However, one of the players who made Westville’s journey through the season better was Seth Simpson.

The forward netted an outstanding 14 goals in 20 outings, which was an amazing achievement, said Westville’s coach, Cameron Mackay, who will be in charge of KZN Coastal at the SASHOC National Week.

Simpson, like Northwood’s Kyle White, the captain of his school’s 1st cricket XI, is a player for the big moments, a player with the valuable ability to rise to the challenge when the stakes are raised.

Nothing demonstrated that more than the hattrick he scored in Westville’s 3-2 victory over King Edward VII School. That contest, played in Johannesburg, was a high-stakes game. What truly showed his ability to lift his game at the most important times, though, was the fact that he scored those three goals in his 50th appearance for the first team.

South Africa’s best junior female players will be in action at the FNB U16 and U18 Girls Weeks staged at Queens High School in Johannesburg from Monday, two important tournaments on the local rugby landscape.

The two tournaments form part of SA Rugby’s 2025 FNB Youth Weeks programme and will run from 30 June until 4 July.

Mr Mark Alexander, SA Rugby’s president, described the two girls’ weeks as “nothing short of nation-shifting”.

“They are instruments of progress, opening rugby’s gates wider than ever before,” said Mr Alexander.

“Girls now have structured, high-profile avenues to express and elevate their talent – platforms that were unimaginable not long ago. This isn’t just about athletic development; it’s about transforming perceptions and normalising girls’ rugby as a proud, powerful part of our national sporting fabric.

“By investing in these tournaments, SA Rugby is not just growing a sport – it’s rewriting a narrative. One that says rugby excellence knows no gender and that the next icon of the game could just as easily emerge from a girls’ scrum on a windswept pitch in Gqeberha as from any traditional stronghold.

“It’s a cultural shift that will echo into classrooms, homes, communities—and eventually, into packed stadiums both here and abroad.”

The first round of the U18 competition kicks off on Monday morning, with Eastern Province meeting the Leopards on the A Field at Queens High School.

Meanwhile, Border will face a Golden Lions Invitational team in the opening match of the U16 tournament.

 U18 fixtures (Monday, 30 June):

09h00: Eastern Province v Leopards, A Field
09h00: Western Province v Valke, B Field
10h30: Sharks v Griffons, A Field
10h30: South Western Districts v Pumas, B Field
12h00: Zimbabwe v Griquas, A Field
12h00: Border v Blue Bulls, B Field
13h30: Opening Ceremony
14h00: Golden Lions v Free State, A Field
14h00: Limpopo Blue Bulls v Boland, B Field

 

U16 fixtures (Monday, 30 June):

08h45: Border v Golden Lions Invitational XV, C Field
10h00: Sharks v Limpopo Blue Bulls, C Field
10h00: Western Province v Leopards, D Field
11h15: Boland v Griquas, C Field
11h15: Eastern Province v Zimbabwe, D Field
12h30: Border Country Districts v Free State, C Field
12h30: Golden Lions v Valke, D Field
14h00: South Western Districts v Griffons, C Field
14h00: Pumas v Blue Bulls, D Field

 

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

Since its inception in 2003, the u16 Grant Khomo Week has served as a launchpad for numerous talented young schoolboy rugby players, offering them their first taste of national exposure.

Follow all the Grant Khomo action live on SuperSport Schools – (www.supersportschools.com) 

Named after South Africa’s first Ubuntu Springbok captain, Grant Austin Khomo, the inaugural tournament took place 22 years ago on the fields of the University of Johannesburg. Since then, the event has gone from strength to strength, consistently unearthing the future stars of South African rugby.

This year the Grant Khomo Week returns to one of the country’s—if not the most—successful rugby unions, the Blue Bulls, where St Alban’s College will host three days of thrilling rugby action over five days, from 30 June to 4 July, for eager fans and passionate supporters alike.

Over the years, many players who went on to become household names have graced the tournament. The 2007 edition was especially notable, featuring the now two-time Rugby World Cup-winning captain, Siya Kolisi, representing the Eastern Province. That same year, Springbok prop Trevor Nyakane made his second consecutive appearance, having already played for the Limpopo Blue Bulls the previous year.

The 2009 and 2010 editions were equally fruitful. In 2009, the tournament featured Springbok speedster Cheslin Kolbe, while flyhalf Handré Pollard appeared in 2010. Alongside these marquee names, many other current and former Springboks have cut their teeth at this elite level of u16 rugby, highlighting the tournament’s pivotal role in shaping a sustainable national rugby structure.

Last year, on the Kolisi Field at Grey High School, Western Province emerged as unofficial champions after completing an unbeaten run. They defeated Eastern Province 38–24, edged past the Sharks 19–13, and capped off their campaign with a 31–22 win over the Blue Bulls. As always, the Cape-based side will enter the tournament as strong favourites to retain their title. They launch their 2025 campaign against fellow contenders Free State in the main fixture on day one.

The hosts, bolstered by a strong contingent from Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool (Affies), are perennial contenders and will open their campaign against a dangerous Boland outfit. In the preceding fixture, fans can expect a bruising, high-intensity clash between the Sharks and the Golden Lions—traditionally one of the tournament’s most physical match-ups.

A new addition to this year’s lineup is the Iqhwe XV, selected from standout players at the 2024 Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, hosted by SA Rugby Legends at Queens High School in Johannesburg. They will feature in the main B-field match, facing off against Griquas.

The action kicks off at 09:30 on the Moshate Field (A-field) with Border taking on the Leopards, while games on the Baloyi Field (B-field) get underway at 09:00 when Zimbabwe lock horns with Border Country Districts.

The fixtures for Day One (Monday, 30 June): 

A-Field

09:30 – Border vs Leopards
10:50 – South Western Districts vs Eastern Province
12:10 – Sharks vs Golden Lions
13:30 – Bulls vs Boland
14:45 – Opening Ceremony
15:15 – Western Province vs Free State

B-Field 

09:00 – Zimbabwe vs Border Country Districts
10:20 – Valke vs Limpopo Blue Bulls
11:40 – Griffons vs Namibia
13:00 – Western Province XV vs Pumas
14:45 – Opening Ceremony
15:15: Iqhawe XV vs Griquas

The 2025 SASHOC Nationals, set to take place at the historic Maritzburg College from the end of June, are around the corner.

The action-packed tournament will see the best hockey teams from across the country coming to showcase their great talent and skills, and among the teams hungry to make their mark this year is the Southern Gauteng under-18A side, led by passionate coach Kyle Reddy.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Reddy expressed the feeling of excitement within the camp as his squad gears up for this upcoming prestigious tournament.

“We are buzzing, honestly,” Reddy said. “The boys are excited, you can feel it. Nationals is always a big moment in the year, it’s where players go to test themselves against the best in the country. The level is higher than schoolboy hockey; you have to be sharp, you have to be ready. And these boys, they are ready to go. We are preparing to face everything South Africa throws at us, and we are really looking forward to it.”

The Southern Gauteng has bolstered its squad from a diverse and talented group of players representing seven leading schools in the province: Jeppe High School for Boys, King Edward VII School, Hoërskool Monument, Parktown Boys’ High School, St Benedict’s College, St David’s Marist Inanda, and St Stithians College. Together, they form a formidable unit packed with skill, speed, and ambition.

Having kicked off their preparations in early May, the team has already played a couple of warm-up matches, and Redddy said these encounters have helped the coaching staff assess combinations and build match fitness.

“We started our preparations in early May, and I have to say, it’s been very positive. We’ve already played a few warm-up games against the U16A and U18B sides. These matches are important, not just to try combinations, but to see what is working, what is not, and where the gaps are. It gives us real information,” Reddy explained.

He added that his team’s playing style is “heavy metal hockey,” fast-paced, intense, and entertaining.

“We play what I like to call heavy metal hockey. It is intense, fast, entertaining, but it’s also got structure and discipline. We want the boys to express themselves, to play with joy, but also with purpose. We still have a month to go, and there’s plenty to cover, but we are moving in the right direction. The quality is there, and their mindset is good.”

Following their fourth-place finish in last year’s tournament, there’s no doubt that the Southern Gauteng outfit will be aiming to improve from that. But while winning remains the goal, Reddy indicated that their aim is more than that.

“Of course we want to win — that’s why we compete. But for me, and our coaching team, this is about more than just results,” he reflected. “Winning is the destination, sure, but the journey is where the real growth happens. We take it one game at a time, one moment at a time.”

For many of these young players, Nationals is more than just a tournament, but a career-defining week for many players who will be aiming for higher achievements, as there will be national team selection after the tournament. Reddy said that another part of their job is to help the players grow, both on and off the field.

“But also, this tournament is a launchpad,” he said. These boys are on the edge of something really special. Some will go to university teams, some will push into national setups. So our job as a coaching team is not just to win games, it is to help them grow. If they come out of this more confident, more disciplined, and more prepared as good people and exceptional players, then that’s a big win too. And if we can do all that and win the tournament? Then that’s the perfect week.”

The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has revealed the teams of boys and girls football squads that will represent South Africa at the forthcoming Regional 5 Youth Games, scheduled to take place in Namibia from 4 July to 13 July.

The Regional 5 Youth Games will feature athletes under the age of 20 with South African football men’s team set to go in an as the u20 South African National Team known as Amajita and proud champions of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

South African Boys’ Team

This year’s u20 men’s Council of Southern Africa Football Association (Cosafa) will take place as part of the Regional 5 Youth Games in Windhoek, Namibia.

The South African u20 National Team, enters the tournament as one of the favourites in Namibia, participating in the u20 football competition at the Region 5 Youth Games after having secured the title in 2024 in Mozambique.

Under the guidance of coach Raymond Mdaka, Amajita achieved the unthinkable and went on to win their first Afcon title  by defeating Morocco in a historic 1-0 match, thanks to a stunning goal by midfielder Gomolemo Kekana. This victory marked Amajita’s first experience of an African championship in a generation, promising to revive the country’s legacy of outstanding footballers.

South Africa approaches this competition with a sense of pride, having won the regional (Cosafa) u20 competition nine times, with their inaugural title being claimed in 2000. Additionally, South Africa hosted the tournament for 11 consecutive years from 1999 to 2009.

The nation has successfully qualified for the regional tournament on nine separate occasions, achieving the gold championship in 2024 and securing the silver medal in 1997.

One of the most remarkable performances by the South African team occurred in 2016 when they reached the final of the Cosafa u20 championship held on home ground, showcasing the exciting style of football for which they are renowned. However, they were defeated by Zambia in the final match with a score of 2-1, resulting in Zambia claiming the title. This outcome was a significant disappointment, which they redeemed by winning the gold medal in 2017.

A memorable moment for dedicated development fans during Amajita’s journey in 2017 was undoubtedly their achievement of topping their group with a perfect nine points, as well as their narrow 1-0 victory over North African guests Egypt in the semifinals. In the final match, Amajita secured a decisive 2-1 victory against Lesotho, thereby bringing home the trophy.

In 2018, South Africa experienced another successful campaign in the competition, leading the group stages against Mauritius and Eswatini, followed by a 1-0 victory over Angola in the semifinals. This semifinal win set the stage for a final match against their long-time rivals, Zimbabwe, which concluded in a thrilling 1-1 draw during regulation time. South Africa ultimately winning with a 4-3 win in the penalty shootout.

With the prospect of achieving a hat-trick of titles in 2019, South Africa was unable to replicate the successes of 2017 and 2018, suffering a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Zambia in the final.

In 2020, the situation took a turn for the worse for the nation, resulting in a group stage exit for the first time in nearly a decade. Despite a commanding 7-0 victory over Lesotho, draws against Zimbabwe (2-2) and Mozambique (0-0) left South Africa finishing as runners-up in their group.

By 2024, a revitalised Amajita and the entire football development community, which rekindled love and passion among the devoted supporters of the beautiful game, witnessed Amajita’s resurgence as they clinched the gold championship.

This victory secured their place in the 2025 u20 Afcon, which they ultimately won earlier this year. Throughout the Cosafa championship, Amajita remained unbeaten and concluded the tournament by defeating their arch-rival Zambia 2-0 in the final, marking a sweet victory for the nation.

The u20 South African team representing the nation at the Regional 5 Youth Games will feature different players from the regular u20 squad that is preparing for the FIFA World Cup will take place from 27 September to 19 October across four cities in Chile – Santiago, Valparaíso, Rancagua, and Talca.

This team primarily consists of young talents such as Cape Town City’s Emile Witbooi who have already showcased their skills in the u17 National Team, known as Amajimbos, who have also qualified for the upcoming u17 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, scheduled from 3 November to 27 November.

u20 South African National Team

Lwandiso Radebe, Lehlonolo Mosia, Bokamoso Mokokosi, Khayalethu Mzimela, Royce Malatji, Hayden Booysen, Sive Pama, Lunje Noqobo, Ziyanda Mchunu, Kamohelo Mareletse, Tebogo Mlangeni, Lebohang Dhlamini, Steven Mendesm Selwyn Stevens, Emile Witbooi, Simphiwe Mlomdo, Ompheemetse Sekgoto, Sivuziwe Lonzi, Neo Bohloko, Obama Mhlongo

Coaches/Management:

Vela Khumalo, Thabo Mngomeni, Shu-Aib Walters, Mulalo Mafenya

The 2025 LSEN Craven Week, a tournament for learners with special needs, will be held at Hoërskool Hoogenhout in Bethal, Mpumalanga. Matches are scheduled for Saturday, 28 June, Monday, 30 June, and Tuesday, 1 July, with games kicking off at 08:30 and running until as late as 17:30 each day.

The teams: 

Blue Bulls: 15 Reitumetse Mbele, 14 Lefa Nsibane, 13 Denzil Coetzee, 12 Jacques Fourie, 11 Jayneil Williamson (Magalies), 10 Juandre Marias (Suiderberg), 9 Sphiwe Mokau (Suiderberg), 8 Marthinus Bester, 7 JT Johnston, 6 Hendrik Fourie (Magalies), 5 Ruwan Oosthuizen (Magalies), 4 Marius Ehlers, 3 Goakantswe Malatjie, 2 Blessing Dlamini, 1 Letlotlo Molubi (Suidenberg). Replacements: 16 Theo Woest, 17 Tiaan Van Straaten, 18 Phenyo Mariri, 19 Luntu Plaatyi, 20 Timothy Khanyi, 21 Ballie Nyakiso, 22 Justin Sibeko, 23 Wahldu Du Plessis.

Boland: 15 Lorenzo Harmse (Breedevalley School of Skills), 14 Giwaan Isaacs, 13 Ismael Wiemers, 12 Jody Engelbrecht, 11 Najmee Hajie, 10 Shagan Philander, 9 Andrihano Fourie (Westcoast School of Skills), 8 Sergio Godden, 7 Asamkele Jonas, 6 John-lee Josef (Steinthal School of Skills), 5 Briviviano Julies, 4 Nganga Badila, 3 Gian Maree, 2 Dalorique Valentyn, 1 Hayden Van west. Replacements: 16 Jowaylon Strauss, 17 Matthew Williams, 18 Lamaaz Stout (Westcoast School of Skills), 19 Mohaigan Geswindt, 20 Jaden Daniels, 21 Gabriel Smith, 22 Junior Fransman, 23 Jaquin Jaers (Westcoast School of Skills).

Eastern Province: 15 Loydin Prins (Bergsig), 14 Ryan Carson Hawkins, 13 Uvern Adams (Bergsig), 12 Dominique Fleurs, 11 Valenton Leusuksieter, 10 Zaynoedeen Bennie, 9 Gavin Armoed, 8 Jordan Derrocks (Westview), 7 Te-jean Van der berg, 6 Shaundre Pienaar, 5 Nimai Izak Geel, 4 Kaydon Kerspuy, 3 Lucinaco Byneveldt, 2 Andre Barnard (Bergsig), 1 Ayema Mbotya (Bergsig). Replacements: 16 Liza Ka Sikwele Tetani, 17 Clark Louerns, 18 Felix Rajh, 19 Stanley Lucas, 20 Mynhardt Hattingh, 21 Elario George Forbes (Arcadia Senior Secondary), 22 Eldridge Van dyk (Bergsig).

Free State: 15 Thabiso Motsoeneng, 14 Geraldo Pieterse, 13 Bohlumelo Rochester Junior Sontlaba (NJ Heyns High School), 12 Kay-dinn Junade Frank Langley (Jim Fouché High School), 11 Junior Van Wyk, 10 Nomario Jannetjes, 9 Thapelo Moses Molotsi (Ladybrand High School), 8 Rato Ramanotsi, 7 Ruben Ernest Van Saweegen (Martie du Plessis High School), 6 Fanna Mokoena (Maluti High School), 5 Obinna Sandys, 4 Ethan Swarts, 3 Leiam Haasbroek, 2 Johnathan Bless, 1 JG Van Der Merwe. Replacements: 16 Kamohelo Lekitlane, 17 Andre Steyn, 18 Jonathan Scriven, 19 Christiaan Matthues Van Der Westhuizen (Martie du Plessis High School), 20 Passions Macala, 21 Sipho Lintoe, 22 Jayden Lubbe, 23 Justin Darius De Klerk (NJ Heyns High School)

Golden Lions: 15 Donovan Jansen van Vuuren (Elandspark School), 14 Blessing Moleko (Destinata School), 13 Lwazi Shasha, 12 Henru Strydom (Marais Viljoen), 11 Jayden Wanderi, 10 Timothy Nortman (School of Achievement), 9 Wethso-Otsile Hanyana, 8 Olwethu Vuso (Elandspark), 7 Gilbert Lebeya, 6 Kamogelo Matlala (Elandspark Schools), 5 Johandre van Dyk (Elandspark), 4 Chisom Ugwoegnu, 3 Thomani Malange, 2 Frans Ras, 1 Panda Malange. Replacements: 16 Sizwe Ndweni, 17 Prince Muianga, 18 Sbongakonke Ngcobo (Goudwes School), 19 Stephanus Enslin, 20 Jeremiah Joshua, 21 Zino Francis (Roodepark School), 22 Rethabile Sefika, 23 Lwazi Dlamini.

Griffons: 15 Fortune Tshibuabua, 14 Pule Radebe, 13 Ricardo Chatwind, 12 Nyombe Hlahla, 11 Keenan Felix, 10 Kyle Till (Orion School), 9 Onthatile Gaudi (Fakkel School), 8 Adriano De Canha De Freitas, 7 Moratehi Tshabalala, 6 Jan-Hendrik Oelofse, 5 Roelof Saunders, 4 Sheridon Du Plooy, 3 Sipho Nondeyi, 2 Lesedi Letshabo (Rheederpark Combine), 1 Tseliso Setai. Replacements: 16 Ayanda Mutle, 17 Edward Van Wyk (Fakkel School), 18 Pule Mahlatsi, 19 Troy Scholtz, 20 Pieter Pretorius (Fakkel School of Skills), 21 Kagiso Lepelesane, 22 Hendrico Samson, 23 Vusimuzi Motumi.

Leopards: 15 Omphile Legodu, 14 Siyabonga Mtiyang, 13 Xolane Nzeke (Keurhof), 12 Luyanda Mtshatsheni, 11 Kopano Mosingate, 10 Cameron Mac Donald (De Wilge), 9 Hansie Visser (Oom Paul Skool), 8 Michael Cloete, 7 Liyema Yimpi, 6 Ris Mekgoro (Die Wilge High School), 5 Angelo Van Wyk, 4 Reamogetse Rethabile Gaje (Keurhof Skool), 3 Mothabe Pule, 2 Ogoletse Godlo (Keurhof Skool), 1 Amogelang Shuping. Replacements: 16 Petrus Johannes Jacobus van der Merwe (Oom Paul Skool), 17 Kgotatso Mokasule, 18 Michael Jacobus (Oom Paul Skool), 19 Frikkie Jacobs, 20 Elrick Sheldon (Oom Paul Skool), 21 Ewoudt Stefan, 22 Boeta Johnson, 23 Devandre Freeman.

Pumas: 15 Jacques Muller, 14 Luthando Gotha, 13 Amukelani Zwane, 12 Lifa Marcelino Nkosi (Platorand), 11 Philani Mbatham Mongezi Thuto Qometa (Jim van Tonder School) 9 Fourie Van Rensburg, 8 Lukas Marthinus Pieters (Jim van Tonder School), 7 Ethan Naude, 6 Rickardo Breytenbach, 5 Monet Blignaut, 4 Bandile Innocent Madonsela (Jim van Tonder School), 3 Alexander Jan Adriaan Venter (WH De Klerk), 2 Zander Mameveck (WH De Klerk), 1 Franco Slabbert. Replacements: 16 Terry Makofane, 17 Ashwell Masilela, 18 Ntokozo Mpho Tshabalala (WH De Klerk), 19 Mbuso Jiyane, 20 Snethemba Mathebula, 21 Derick Smit, 22 Ndumiso Mthimunye, 23 Luke Ogilvie.

Sharks: 15 Olwethu Luthuli, 14 Xolani Masuku, 13 Phiwo Phakathi (Tugela Pre-Vocational), 12 Lungelo Pons (Hillcrest High School), 11 Ayabonga Nqopiso (Hoerskool Suid-Natal), 10 Kean Sukkels (Hoerskool Suid-Natal), 9 Uzobuya Mngadi, 8 Kwandakwethu Phiri, 7 Ayabonga Makhubu, 6 Zelvin Van Zyl (Tudela Pre-Vocational), 5 Lwanele Mzobe, 4 Levi Jansen Van Niewenhuizen (Hoerskool Said-Natal), 3 Mthobisi Khumalo (Tugela Pre-Vocational), 2 Johannes Venter, 1 Xolani Ngcamu (Tugela Pre-Vocational). Replacements: 16 Andile Zama (Tudela Pre-Vocational), 17 Liwonga Kongela, 18 Aiden Carr, 19 Smanga Leonard, 20 Lorenzo Thompson, 21 Christian Van Staden (Hoerskool Suid-Natal), 22 Hayden Oroschin, 23 Skhanyile Dlamini.

South-Western District: 15 Duwayn James, 14 Embrace Africa (Van Kervel), 13 Brendan-Junior Kasanya, 12 Byron Kiewit, 11 Wayden Heyns, 10 Quinton Agulhas (Olympia), 9 Rammon Meyer, 8 Ngwanya Saleni (Van Kervel), 7 Quintin Visser (Van Kervel), 6 Evanne Miguel Calone, 5 Elgin Carolus (Oudtshoom Vaardigheid), 4 Elijah Bayman, 3 Darius De Jager, 2 Hadley Benjamin (Van Kervel), 1 Sakhie Dyani (Olympia). Replacements: 16 Gershwin Mattews, 17 Gideon De Bruin, 18 Callan Botha, 19 Jayden Rhode, 20 Chad Stroebel, 21 Keanon Booysen, 22 Micah Lottering, 23 Ruwarden Alistair Paulsen.

Valke: 15 Oratiloe Ramaite, 14 Ufentse Malatjie, 13 Lwazi Mens (Die Anker Skool), 12 Pieter Le Roux (Belvedere), 11 Ompile Dubase (Kempton Panorama School), 10 Thinus Van Willing (Belvedere), 9 Jordan Jacobs, 8 Andile Nobete, 7 Montaigu Dorfling, 6 Mogale Manaka (Belvedere), 5 Rigen Chigosie (Kempton Panorama School), 4 Keagan Maclellan (Belvedere), 3 Timothy Rall, 2 Billy Matthee, 1 Sello Makhubela. Replacements: 16 Johan Huyesser (Belvedere), 17 Diwan Wolmerans, 18 Morne Olivier, 19 Kagiso Matou, 20 Liyema Songinzi, 21 Damian Ndlove, 22 Simlindile Bewana, 23 Thato Zwane.

Western Province: 15 Wesley Kannemeyer, 14 Xavier Lorenzo Jacobs (Florida School of Skills), 13 Marcos Pedro Lubaco (Axios School of Skills), 12 Morne Oor (Axios), 11 Hedley Donrick Philander (Axios School of Skills), 10 Zurich Stevens (Bet-el School), 9 Junade Filander, 8 Siyabulela Mangali (Westcliff School of Skills), 7 Chandley Jacobs (Axios School of Skills), 6 Jayden John September (Axios School of Skills), 5 Rochton Brown (Jan Kriel School), 4 Luken Wyngaard (Florida School of Skills), 3 Gillian Simons (Axios School of Skills), 2 Jean Mc Ewan, 1 Liam Clive Divan Allen (Florida School of Skills). Replacements: 16 Gareth America, 17 Ryan Van Breda, 18 Charles Hendricks, 19 Jossie Van Rooyen (Axios School of Skills), 20 Chriswinn Plaat (Westcliff School of Skills), 21 Mekyle Human (ELSIES RIVER), 22 Yusuf Hannibal, 23 Ralton Rhode.

The annual SASHOC National Week hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for the Western Province (WP) u18A girls in past seasons, but they are determined to change that narrative in 2025.

After disappointing results and failing to make the final last year, Province will fancy their chances when the tournament kicks off on Monday, 30 June, at St Anne’s DSG in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal.

The girls from the Western Cape will embark on the journey with their sights set on causing an upset and silencing critics who don’t consider them as “favourites” for the tournament.

Coach Natalie Esteves from St Cyprian’s School leads the side, and will be assisted by coach Ziyaad Ismail from Springfield Convent School, while Fairmont’s Liza Duckitt is the team manager.

The Western Province selectors have named a strong squad for the tournament, featuring six players who did duty for the side at last year’s event in Bloemfontein, where they finished in seventh place. Despite that disappointment, Province will be starting with a clean slate this time around and will need the experienced heads in the team to show character and leadership.

Jehan Abrahams (Wynberg Girls High) and Hannah Henderson (Herschel Girls School) have been entrusted to co-captain the side. They are no strangers to the Province system, having donned the blue and white since their u16 playing days.

In fact, Abrahams and Henderson are the only players who represented WP during the senior indoor women’s IPT earlier this year. No doubt their experience and knowledge of the tournament will be invaluable.

Other players who will look to make their mark at the national tournament include Zara Berrisford, Khanya Moore, Samantha Flint and Georgia Maw. The four also formed part of the 2024 squad and experienced the heartbreak of losing crucial pool games against Northern Gauteng A, Southern Free State A, Southern Gauteng A and Boland A, in the fifth to eighth playoffs.

Applying that shaping moment as fuel and motivation, these players can inspire the young crop of players making their respective provincial debuts at the tournament.

Over the last five editions of the tournament, WP came closest in 2022, finishing second behind Southern Free State A after losing 6-0 in the final.

Since then, it’s been fourth place and last year’s seventh. By their standards, the coaches will demand more from the players, and rightfully so, considering the amount of talent at their disposal.

Getting WP on the podium and winning a medal will be the main item on the agenda for the coaches, but it will require great teamwork, gutsy performances and standout showings from the experienced heads.

WP has been drawn in Pool B this year and will face last year’s finalists, Northern Gauteng A, KZN Coastal A, KZN Inland A, Border and local counterparts, Western Province B.

They open their campaign against KZN Inland A on Monday, 30 June, at 11:45.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools.

Western Province u18A Team:

Peyton Marais (Curro Durbanville), Georgia Maw (St Cyprian’s School), Nina Wides (Herschel Girls School), Sam Flint (Herschel Girls School), Zara Berrisford (Westerford High School), Amy Ten Cate (Durbanville High School), Kira Totaram-Jacobs (St Cyprian’s School), Camryn Corner (Fairmont High School), Chelsey McGregor (St Cyprian’s School), Sarah Ashbolt (Herschel Girls School), Thimna Waka (Table View High School), Hannah Henderson (Herschel Girls School), Jehan Abrahams (Wynberg Girls’ High School), Khanya Moore (Springfield Convent School), Isabella Amm (Springfield Convent School), Emma Hibbert (Reddam House Constantia).

Only a few days remain until the start of the Waterstone College u13 and u19 boys’ and girls’ tournaments, which will take place from Saturday, 28 June, to Monday, 30 June.

Several prominent schools in Gauteng are set to garner attention at Waterstone, as they vie for this annual Super Cup.

Curro Soshanguve has been showcasing exceptional football this year, having successfully qualified for the last 16 of the Curro Halala Cup with a 3-2 victory over Curro Thatchfield, and is one of the strong contenders this year.

Curro Thatchfield is also competing in this year’s Waterstone College Super Cup, while other noteworthy teams include The King’s School Linbro Park, which also secured their place in the next round of the Curro Halala Cup; Meridian Cosmo City and Curro Wilgeheuwel, whose performances on the field this season have been quite impressive.

The previous year’s champions will nevertheless still be one of the teams to beat in this year’s Waterstone College Super Cup. Waterstone College is the reigning champion of the u19 boys’ category, while Wilgeheuwel Academy claimed the championship title for the girls. Northern Academy won the u13 girls’ competition, with Waterstone College taking home the championship title for the u13 boys.

Several schools that form part of the Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools, including Meridian Cosmo City,  Curro Savanna City, Northern Academy, Protea Glen, Curro Pretoria, and Meridian Pinehurst, have been reaping the benefits and will be fizzing to demonstrate their skills at Waterstone College.

u19 Boys’ Competition

Group 1

Curro Protea Glen, Curro Pretoria, Curro Thatchfield, Waterstone College B, Blue Hills

Group 2

Trinity House Glenvista, Meridian Cosmo City, Curro Aurora, Curro Wilgeheuwel, Waterstone College College A

Group 3

Meridian Pinehurst, Curro Soshanguve, Curro Savanna City, Kings Linbro Park, Kings West Rand

u19 Girls’Competition

Group 1

Curro Wilgeheuwel, Kings West Rand, Curro Sagewood, Waterstone College

Group 2

Kings Linbro Park, Curro Protea Glen, Meridian Cosmo City, Curro Aurora

Fixtures 

Saturday 28 June 

u19 Boys’ Competition

Field: FIFA A

Group 1

07:30 – Curro Protea Glen vs Waterstone College B
11:30 – Curro Thatchfield vs Curro Protea Glen

Field: FIFA B

07:30 – Curro Pretoria vs Curro Thatchfield

Group 2

Field: FIFA A

09:30 – Waterstone College A vs Curro Aurora
14:30 – Curro Wilgeheuwel vs Waterstone College A

Field: FIFA B

08:30 – Trinity House Glenvista vs Curro Wilgeheuwel
11:30 – Meridian Cosmo City vs Curro Aurora
13:30 – Curro Aurora vs Trinity House Glenvista

Group 3

Field: FIFA A

08:30 – Meridian Pinehurst vs The King’s Linbro Park
13:30 – King’s West Rand vs Curro Savanna City

Field: FIFA B

10:30 – Curro Soshanguve vs Curro Savanna City
15:30 -The King’s Linbro Park vs King’s West Rand
16:30 – Meridian Pinehurst vs Curro Soshanguve

Sunday 29 June 

Group 1

Field: FIFA A

07:30 – Waterstone College B vs Blue Hills
14:30 – Curro Protea Glen vs Curro Pretoria

Field: FIFA B

09:30: Curro Pretoria vs Blue Hills
13:30 – Curro Thatchfield vs Waterstone College B
16:30 – Blue Hills vs Curro Thatchfield

Group 2

Field: FIFA A

09:30 – Trinity House Glenvista vs Meridian Cosmo City
13:30 – Meridian Cosmo City vs Waterstone College A
16:30 – Waterstone College A vs Trinity House Glenvista

Field: FIFA B

08:30 – Curro Aurora vs Curro Wilgeheuwel

Group 3

Field: FIFA A

10:30 – Curro Soshanguve vs King’s West Rand
11:30 – Curro Savanna City vs The King’s Linbro Park
13:30 – The King’s Linbro Park vs Curro Soshanguve

Field: FIFA B

15:30 – King’s West Rand vs Meridian Pinehurst

Monday 

Group 1

Field: FIFA A

07:30 – Blue Hills vs Curro Protea Glen
08:30 – Waterstone College B vs Curro Pretoria

Group 2 

Field: FIFA B

07:30 – Curro Wilgeheuwel vs Meridian Cosmo City

Group 3

Field: FIFA B

08:30 – Curro Savanna City vs Meridian Pinehurst

Knockout Stages/Quarterfinals 

TBA 

Saturday 28 June

u19 Girls’ Competition 

Group 1

Field: FIFA A

10:30 – Curro Wilgeheuwel vs King’s West Rand
15:30 – Curro Wilgeheuwel vs Waterstone College

Group 2

Field: FIFA B

09:30 – The King’s Linbro Park vs Meridian Cosmo City
14:30 – Curro Protea Glen

Sunday 29 June

Group 1

Field: FIFA A

08:30 – King’s West Rand vs Curro Sagewood

Group 2

Field: FIFA B

07:30 – The King’s Linbro Park vs Curro Protea Glen
11:30 – Curro Aurora vs Curro Protea Glen

Monday 30 June

Knockout Stages/Quarterfinals 

TBA

In a fresh change to the last two years, the annual and highly anticipated Academy Week has this year found a new home in Middelburg.

Follow all the Academy Week action live on SuperSport Schools – (www.supersportschools.com) 

Jeppe Boys High School, in Johannesburg, has played host to the annual tournament for the past two years, but this year the prestigious week is staged at Hoërskool Middelburg in Mpumalanga.

The week is, as always, aligned with the Craven Week, also at the Middies, starting on Monday, 7 July, and running through to Friday, 11 July. As in the past, the week will consist of three playing days, with two rest days in between to keep the players in tip-top shape for a week that is expected to produce some scintillating rugby.

The action on day one kicks off at 09:00 on both the B and C fields of the Middies. On the B-field, also the main field for the three-day action, Boland and Border will get proceedings underway, while on the C-field, Border’s “little brother”, Border Country District, will lock horns with the LSEN XV. The LSEN side consists of the best talent spotted at the annual LSEN week, played just a week before.

This match will be followed by the hosts, the Pumas, taking on the Limpopo Blue Bulls in what normally shapes up as a cracker between these traditional rivals. The main match on the first day sees the unofficial champions of the past two years, the Golden Lions, launch their title defence against the “Purple People Eaters”, more commonly known as the Griffons. A strong Western Province contingent will have their work cut out as they face the Free State in the second match on the main field, kicking off at 10:15.

The Leopards from North West face South Western Districts at 14:30 in the main match on the C-field.

Fixtures – Day 1 – Monday, 07 June: 

B-Field:

09:00 – Boland vs Border
10:15 – Western Province vs Free State
11:30 – Bulls vs Lions XV
12:45 – Eastern Province vs Sharks
14:00 – Opening Ceremony
14:30 – Golden Lions vs Griffons

C-Field: 

09:00 – Border Country Districts vs LSEN XV
10:15 – Pumas vs Limpopo Blue Bulls
11:30 – Griquas vs Zimbabwe
12:45 – Valke vs Namibia
14:00 – Opening Ceremony
14:30 – Leopards vs South Western Districts

The annual Kloof High School National Football Tournament is back, featuring prominent schools from across South Africa, and is poised to captivate the football community with scintillating football.

The tournament kicks off at 8.00 am on Friday, 27 June, and concludes on Sunday, 29 June. The structure remains unchanged from last year, with 32 exceptional schools from across the country vying for the honour of being crowned champions of the tournament. More than 100 matches will take place across four fields, and all games will be available for streaming on the SuperSport Schools App.

There are several teams to keep an eye on, including Virginia High School, the champions of the Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament; HTS Louis Botha, known for a remarkable football legacy; Maritzburg College, the reigning champions of the Mancosa KZNHSFA Inland A-League; and Westville Boys’ High School, which last week won the Mancosa KZNHSFA Coastal A-League.

Hillcrest High School, who are performing exceptionally well, have advanced to the last 16 of the Curro Halala Cup and recently reached their inaugural Mancosa KZNHSFA Coastal A-League final, which they unfortunately lost to Westville. They nevertheless remain a high-spirited team. Earlier this year, in an exclusive interview with SuperSport Schools Plus, Hillcrest’s coach, Cayle Marillier, expressed his anticipation ahead of and hopes for his team’s success in the Kloof Tournament.

Among the travelling teams to watch during this tournament are TuksSport High School, Reddam House and Mondeor High School.

However, there is one team that everyone will be aiming to defeat, namely the defending champion, Nqabakazulu Comprehensive High School. They won the tournament in impressive fashion in 2024, defeating the highly-rated HTS Louis Botha 3-0 in the final. Nqabakazulu are poised for another historic run, hoping to not only secure this year’s championship but to defend their title against some of the leading schools in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.

The hosts, Kloof High School, are also anticipating a successful run in this year’s tournament, aiming to create lasting memories for the current generation of footballers. Some of these players may be completing their matriculation before graduating from Kloof High School, which raises the stakes for all participants in the annual Kloof High School National Football Tournament.

Fixtures

Friday 27 June:

Field: Main Field

Group A

08:00 – 08:55 – Nqabakazulu vs Isibonelo

Group E

09:00 – 09:55 – Tuks vs Kloof High

Group D

10:00 – 10:55 – Maritzburg College vs Toti

Group H 

11:00 – 11:55 – Carter High vs Howick

Group B

12:00 -12:55 – HTS Louis Botha vs Hillcrest High

Group F

13:00 – 13:55 – Westville vs Sarel Cilliers

Group A

14:00 -14:55 – Isibonelo vs Durban High School

Group E

15:00 – 15:55 – Kloof High vs Reddam House

Group D

16:00 – 16:55 – Maritzburg College vs Birdswood

Field: Top A

Group B

08:00 – 08:55 – HTS Louis Botha vs Northwood

Group A

10:00 – 10:55 – Alexandra High vs Durban High School

Group F

09:00 – 09:55 – Westville vs Vuyiswa Mtolo

Group F

11:00 -11:55 – Sareli Cilliers vs Nilgiri

Group C

12:00 -12:55 – Kearsney College vs Virginia High

Group E

13:00 – 13:55 – Tuks vs Durban North College

Group C

14:00 – 14:55 – Virginia High vs Ashton Ballito

Group F

15:00 – 15:00 – Vuyiswa Mtolo vs Nilgiri

Group B

16:00 – 16:55 – HTS Louis Botha vs New Forest

Field: Top B

Group C

08:00 – 08:55 – Virginia High vs George Campbell

Group G

09:00 – 09:55 – Pinetown vs Hilton College

Group C

10:00 -10:55 – George Campbell

Group G

11:00 – 11:55 – Linpark vs Umvuzo Secondary

Group A

12:00 – 12:55 – Nqabakazulu vs Alexandra High

Group G

13:00 – 13:55 – Pinetown vs Linpark

Group B

14:00 – 14:55 – Northwood vs New Forest

Group G

15:00 – 15:55 – Hilton College vs Umvuzo Secondary

Group C

16:00 – 16:55 – Ashton Ballito vs Kearsney College

Field: KSP Field 

Group D

08:00 -08:55 – Mondeor High vs Birdswood

Group H

09:00- 09:55 – St Henry’s vs Edendale Tech High

Group B

10:00 – 10:55 – Hillcrest High vs New Forest

Group E

11:00 – 11:55 – Durban North College vs Reddam House

Group D

12:00 -12:55 – Maritzburg College vs Mondeor High

Group H

13:00 -13:55 – Carter High vs St Henry’s

Group D

14:00 – 14:55 – Toti vs Birdswood

Group H

15:00 – 15:55 – Howick vs Edendale Tech High

Group A

16:00 – 16:55 – Nqabakazulu vs Durban High School

Saturday 28 June 

Field: Field 

Group E

07:30 – 08:25 – Durban North College vs Kloof High

Group A

08:30 – 09:25 – Isibonelo vs Alexandra High

Group H

09:30 – 10:25 – St Henry’s vs Howick

Field: Top A

Group G

07:30 – 08:25 – Pinetown vs Umvuzo Secondary

Group B

08:30 – 09:25 – Northwood vs Hillcrest High

Group G

09:30 – 10:30 – Linpark vs Hilton College

Field: Top B

Group F

07:30 – 08:25 – Vuyiswa Mtolo vs Sareli Cilliers

Group F

08:30 – 09:25 – Westville vs Nilgiri

Group C

09:30 – 10:25 – George Campbell vs Kearsney College

Field: KSP Field 

Group E

07:30 – 08:25 – Tuks vs Reddam House

Group D

08:30 – 09:25 – Mondeor High vs Toti

Group H

09:30 – 10:25 – Carter High vs Edendale Tech High

Knockout Stages

Field: Main Field 

Match 1

10:45 – 11:40 – 1st Group A vs 2nd Group E

Match 5

11:45 – 12:45 – 1st Group E vs 2nd Group A

Match 3

12:45 – 13:40 – 1st Group C vs 2nd Group G

Match 7

13:45 – 14:40 – 1st Group G vs 2nd Group C

Match 17: 

14:45 – 15:40 – Match Loser 1 vs Match Loser 2

Match 19

15:45 – 16:40 – Match Loser 5 vs Match Loser 6

Field: Top A

Match 2

10:45 – 11:40 – 1st Group B vs 2nd Group F

Match 6

11:45 – 12:40 – 1st Group F vs 2nd Group B

Match 4

12:45 – 13:40 – 1st Group D vs 2nd Group H

Match 8

13:45 – 14:40 – 1st Group H vs 2nd Group D

Match 18

14:45 – 15:50 – Match Loser 3 vs Match Loser 4

Match 20

15:45 – 16:40 – Match Loser 7 vs Match Loser 8

Field: Top B

Match 9

10:45 – 11:40 – 3rd Group A vs 4th Group E

Match 13

11:45 – 12:40 – 3rd Group E vs 4th Group A

Match 11

12:45 – 13:40 – 3rd Group C vs 4th Group G

Match 15 

13;45 – 14:40 – 3rd Group G vs 4th Group C

Match 21

14:45 – 15:40 – Match Loser 9 vs Match Loser 10

Match 23

15:45 – 16:40 – Match Loser 13 vs Match Loser 14

Field: KSP Field 

Match 10

10:40 – 11:40 – 3rd Group B vs 4th Group F

Match 14

11:45 – 12:40 – 3rd Group F vs 4th Group B

Match 12

12:45 – 13:40 – 3rd Group D vs 4th Group H

Match 16

13:45 – 14:40 – 3rd Group H vs 4th Group D

Match 22

14:45 – 15:40 – Match Loser 9 vs Match Loser Match Loser 10

Match 24

15:45 – 16:40 – Match Loser 15 vs Match Loser 16

Sunday 29 June

Field: Main Field

Match 31

07:30 – 08:25 – Winner Match 5 vs Winner Match 6

Match 29

08:30 – 09:25 – Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match 2

Match 33

09:30 – 10:25 – Winner Match 21 vs Winner Match Winner Match 22

Match 37

10:30 – 11:25 – Winner Match 17 vs Winner Match 18

Match 40

11:30 – 12:25 – Loser Match 19 vs Loser Match 20

Match 44

11:30 – 12:25 – Loser Match 27 vs Loser Match 28

Match 45

12:30 – 13:25 – Winner Match 29 vs Winner Match 30

Field: Top A

Match 32

07:30 – 08:25 – Winner Match 7 vs Winner Match 8

Match 30

08:30 -09:25 – Winner Match 3 vs Winner Match 4

Match 34

09:30 – 10:25 – Winner Match 23 vs Winner Match 24

Match 38

10:30 – 11:25 – Winner Match 19 vs Winner Match 20

Match 41

11:30 – 12:25 – Winner Match 25 vs Winner Match 26

Match 46

12:30 – 13:25 – Winner Match 31 vs Winner Match 32

Field Top B

Match 27 

07:30 – 08:25 – Winner Match 13 vs Winner Match 14

Match 25

08:30 – 09:25 – Winner Match 9 vs Winner Match 10

Match 35

09:25 – 10:25 – Loser Match 21 vs Loser Match 22

Match 39

10:30 – 11:25 – Loser Match 17 vs Loser Match 18

Match 42

11:30 – 12:25 – Winner Match 27 vs Winner Match 28

Match 47

12:30 – 13:25 – Loser Match 29 vs Loser Match 30

Field: KSP Field 

Match 28 

07:30 – 08:25 – Winner Match 15 vs Winner Match 14

Match 26 

08:30 -09:25 – Winner Match 11 vs Winner Match 12

Match 36

09:30 – 10:25 – Loser Match 23 vs Loser Match 24

Match 40

10:30 – 11:25 – Loser Match 19 vs Loser Match 20

Match 43

11:30 – 12:25 – Loser Match 25 vs Loser Match 26

Match 48 

12:30 – 13:25 – Loser Match 31 vs Loser Match 32

Shield Final 

Field: Main Field 

13:30 – 14:25 – Winner Match 41 vs Winner Match 42

Spoon Final 

Field: Top A

13:30 – 14:25 – Winner Match 33 vs Winner Match 34

Shield 3rd Place

Field: Top B

13:30 – 14:25 – Loser Match 33 vs Loser Match 34

Plate Final

Field: Main Field

14:30 – 15:25 – Winner Match 37 vs Winner Match 38

Cup 3rd Place

Field: Top A

14:30 – 15:25 – Loser Match 45 vs Loser Match 46

Plate 3rd Place

Field: Top B

14:30 – 15:25 – Loser Match 37 vs Loser Match 38

Cup Final 

Field: Main Field 

15:30 – 16:25 – Winner Match 45 vs Winner Match 46