Following three weeks of action, with most of the schools finalising their preparations, this coming weekend will see most of the big dogs in action. We will as we expect witness what we are being spoilt within South Africa. Fast exciting and brutal action by the top junior talent in South Africa, and maybe in the world? A brutal world where last week's or year's fame counts nothing, zero and ziltz.
This is the first week of local action in Kwa-Zulu Natal with some big interschools taking place.
A lot has been said about DHS's dominance over Maritzburg College in recent years and it is forecasted to continue in 2025. If taking into account the 63-08 drubbing of Voortrekker Bethlehem by DHS the prediction is not far-fetched. DHS is said to field a U19-dominated 1stXV in 2025 and also include a boy who left school in 2024 to play U19 rugby at a franchise and decided to return to school in 2025. Not much is known about Maritzburg College and everybody is excited to see the influence of the newly appointed Nico Breedt as coach of 1stXV, however, it remains a mystery why Henre Marintz is not allowed to coach.
One of the favourites to end the season in the Top 5 is Westville who have a strong team with several boys involved with SA Rugby High Performance squads. However, names do not guarantee fame as the Irish supporters can confirm, and despite several "pundits" predictions I can not write Hilton off, especially with the coaching staff involved.
Michaelhouse showed their big weakness against Helpmekaar a week ago and Northwood will target the forwards of Michaelhouse hoping to unsettle Michaelhouse early on, however, a week is a long time in rugby and knowing the coaches at Michaelhouse there were several overtime sessions worked on the rugby fields and gym.
Glenwood fielded a U17-dominated team in 2024 and a lot is expected from them in 2025, however, we all know the "second-year" syndrome.
Fixtures - KwaZulu-Natal
DHS vs Maritzburg College
Hilton vs Westville
Kearsney vs Clifton
Northwood vs Michaelhouse
St Charles vs Glenwood