St John’s College are eagerly anticipating the chance to test themselves against top-tier opposition when they make their debut appearance at the Graeme College Rugby Festival in Makhanda next week.
The Johannesburg-based team are set to bring a dynamic and attacking flair to the annual tournament, taking place from March 20 to 22. They will face Cambridge on Thursday and host Graeme on Saturday.
Having been regular participants in the Grey High Festival in Gqeberha, St John’s head of rugby, Katleho Lynch, said the team were eager for a new challenge this year and had been preparing for two highly competitive matches.
“Each of the teams we play will present unique challenges,” he said. “I’m confident that both teams will stay true to their playing identity and look to apply pressure in key areas of the game.
“We’re looking forward to the opportunity to compete against them.”
Lynch highlighted that the squad featured a blend of experienced players returning from last year and promising younger players stepping up to the senior ranks.
“Our team profile has evolved, allowing us to adopt a different playing style compared to 2024,” he said.
“We have eight returning players from last year’s first team, bringing valuable experience, while the energy and talent of the younger players will help us build on our vision.
“I’m especially excited about the potential of this group and what they can accomplish together.”
With the rugby season fast approaching, the St John’s players have been putting in significant effort, and anticipation is growing within the squad.
“We’ve been working hard on our conditioning with our strength and conditioning team, while the coaches have been refining core skills, strengthening team culture, and ensuring clarity in our game plan,” Lynch added.
“The players are fully committed and excited about what we’re building.
“As we prepare for the Graeme festival, it's essential that we execute with precision and, ideally, remain injury-free.”
The matches in Makhanda will play a crucial role in shaping their season, but the team remain focused on the immediate task at hand.
“Our focus is on taking each game as it comes, staying process-driven, and executing our game plan while continuing to grow as a team,” Lynch said.
“While we have internal goals for the Graeme festival, our priority remains sticking to our approach and refining our performance.
“We’re also mindful of the challenging fixtures that follow, keeping them in the back of our minds as we prepare for the season.”