On the 11th of April, Fourways High School faced Krugersdorp High School in our first derby of the year. The day was filled with excitement as players from both schools prepared to showcase their skills on the rugby and hockey fields.
The atmosphere was electric as all teams fought for bragging rights. Likhona Sithebe (grade 12), a first team rugby (FHS) player expressed his confidence, stating that he felt no pressure because he loves playing rugby, and that FHS was going to win.
There were mixed results for the rugby teams. The first team savoured a win with a score of 36-17, while the second team won 19-6. Khanyanta Chandiya (grade 11), a second team rugby player, reflected on the match, noting the frustration with their loss, recognising taking accountability for their performance.
In contrast, the first team hockey boys secured a decisive 10-0 victory, and the under 15 hockey boys also fared well, winning their match 21-12. These positive outcomes provided a bright spot in an otherwise challenging day for the rugby teams.
Mr. Clayton, who coaches the second team, emphasised the significance of competing against a school like KHS, stating that it is essential for the boys to rise up to the occasion. “Winning is important, at the same time, developing new combinations is just as significant”, he explained regarding their current focus on team development.
Overall, the first derby of the year for FHS was a mixed experience, combining moments of learning and growth combined with the setbacks felt by the rugby teams. As they move forward in the season, the determination and resilience demonstrated by the players will be critical in their future fixtures.