Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival Expands with Girls’ Division in 16th Edition
The highly anticipated Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival (KERF) returns for its 16th edition, featuring a record 28 teams across three divisions—12 high school boys’ teams, 12 primary school teams, and, for the first time, a girls’ high school category.
This year’s festival will showcase top rugby talent from across South Africa, along with a strong Zimbabwean team, as schools gear up for an action-packed tournament. The matches will take place over three play days: Thursday, April 17th, Saturday, April 19th, and Monday, April 21st.
Elite Teams Set to Compete
KwaZulu-Natal will be represented in the senior boys’ division by Durban High School, Westville Boys’ High, Glenwood, and hosts Kearsney College. They will be joined by Zimbabwe’s Peterhouse Boys’ School, known for their dynamic rugby style.
Other top contenders include Gauteng’s powerhouses, Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen (Boksburg) and Hoërskool Monument (Krugersdorp), alongside Eastern Cape’s Hoërskool Framesby (Gqeberha) and Dale College (Qonce). Hoërskool Rustenburg (North West) will also bring their competitive edge, while new entrants Hoërskool Durbanville and Milnerton High School from the Western Cape promise to add fresh excitement to the festival.
Growth and Development of Rugby
Sharks head coach John Plumtree emphasized the significance of KERF, highlighting that while talent is essential, discipline, hard work, and commitment are key for young players aiming to progress in rugby. He said that KERF provides an incredible experience, allowing players to enjoy a major festival while also giving them the opportunity to be noticed and advance their careers.
Kearsney headmaster Patrick Lees expressed his excitement about the festival’s continued growth, particularly with the introduction of a girls’ division. “The inclusion of three divisions for the first time highlights KERF’s invaluable role in developing school rugby culture and expanding the sport since its inception in 2008,” he said.
Sponsorship and Support
The festival’s success is made possible through the support of key sponsors. Standard Bank remains a proud partner, with Kuben Chetty, head of Commercial Banking in KwaZulu-Natal, stating, “We believe sports and education are crucial in shaping well-rounded individuals, fostering competition, and promoting teamwork for a prosperous future.”
Halfway Ford Waterfall also continues its sponsorship, with Chilton Penery, chief operating officer of Halfway Group’s Auto Division, emphasizing their commitment to youth development through sports.
Girls and Primary School Teams Join the Action
Adding an exciting new dimension, four U16 girls’ teams—Adams College (Amanzimtoti), Mowat Park (Montclair), George Campbell School of Technology (Durban), and Richards Bay High School—will play during lunchtime slots.
The primary school division will see 12 teams compete, offering young players the thrill of playing on a full-sized field in front of enthusiastic crowds. Participating teams include:
Harare Lions (Zimbabwe), Chelsea Prep, Glenwood Prep, Hillcrest Primary, Highbury, Kloof Senior Primary, Penzance Primary, Umhlali Prep, Westville Senior Primary, Winston Park, uThukela (Bergville), and the KZN Ibutho Development team.
A Festival of Rugby and Family Spirit
Recognized as one of South Africa’s premier school rugby festivals, KERF attracts teams, families, and supporters who gather to celebrate a weekend of top-tier rugby in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere on Kearsney’s picturesque campus.
With a stellar lineup and expanded divisions, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and the growing legacy of school rugby.
A Festival of Rugby and Family Spirit
Recognized as one of South Africa’s premier school rugby festivals, KERF attracts teams, families, and supporters who gather to celebrate a weekend of top-tier rugby in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere on Kearsney’s picturesque campus.
This year’s event will offer more than just rugby action. A dedicated KidZone will provide fun activities for younger children, while spectators can enjoy ample parking, a variety of food outlets, and a refreshment tent to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the weekend.
For those unable to attend, all matches will be live-streamed on the SuperSport Schools app. Festival updates, results, match reports, and action photographs will also be available at www.kearsney.com throughout the tournament.
With a stellar lineup, expanded divisions, and a festival atmosphere, this year’s KERF promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and the growing legacy of school rugby.
Photographer: Hannah Shirley
