The biggest Interschools rugby derby is back in Paarl as Paarl Gimnasium and Paarl Boys’ High prepare to face off at Faure Street Stadium on the 3rd of August. The town will be divided into two passionate camps: the Galpille and the Bloedworse, South vs. North. For an entire week, Paarl buzzes with the intensity of a rivalry that has spanned more than 100 years, culminating in the main rugby match between these two storied schools.
Paarl Boys’ High has had a challenging season by their own high standards, with 11 wins and 4 losses out of 15 games. They started strong with six consecutive victories but faced a surprising last-minute loss to Wynberg Boys High at home, followed by defeats to Paul Roos and Affies. They bounced back with a thrilling win against DHS and have been steadily building momentum since. Though their pack may not be as formidable as in previous years, their quick back three and excellent loose forwards make them a formidable opponent.
Paarl Gimnasium, on the other hand, has enjoyed a stellar season with 12 wins and only 2 losses in 14 games. Their only setbacks came against strong teams like Paul Roos and Grey College. Building up to Interschools, they have won their last three matches convincingly, scoring over 40 points in each game. With a well-balanced team featuring big, strong forwards and a slick backline, including two outstanding midfield players, Paarl Gim is poised for another great performance.
This historic showdown first took place in 1915, when masters, schoolboys, and old boys all played together. This format continued until 1927, after which it was decided that the Interschools matches should only comprise schoolboys. The current format, as we know it today, was officially established in 1929. The only interruptions to this annual derby came in 1928 for reasons lost to time and a forced two-year break in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19.
The intensity of this derby is reflected in the razor-thin average winning margin of just 5 points across over 100 games. There are no easy victories in these fiercely contested matches, where every point is hard-fought, and defence is unyielding. With 11 drawn matches, three of which ended in a 0-0 stalemate—the last in 1986—the commitment and pressure in these games are palpable.
The lead-up to the big game is filled with tradition and camaraderie. The week is marked by functions and reunions, where old friends and rivals reminisce about days gone by. The first skirmish on the rugby field occurs on Wednesday evening as the Old Boy teams engage in a friendly yet fierce contest. Thursday afternoon sees the "Goffels" and "Hommels" (G and H teams) showcase their unique brand of rugby. The excitement ramps up on Friday morning with the Big Brags in the school halls, where the Rugby and Hockey warriors are introduced, and the first teams are capped for Interschools.
Friday afternoon brings a flurry of rugby action at the host schools' fields, highlighted by the U14A match and the eagerly anticipated "Chiefs" vs. "Chippies" clash between the third teams. The main event on Saturday at Faure Street Stadium features only four matches, starting around 12:00 with the U15A game, followed by the U16A and Seccies, and culminating in the main match at 16:00.
As the clock ticks down to the 3rd of August, anticipation reaches a fever pitch. This is more than a game; it’s a celebration of history, pride, and schoolboy rugby at its finest. Get ready for an epic battle that will leave the town of Paarl buzzing for months to come.
