A friendly but fierce sporting and cultural derby played off earlier this month when about 300 learners from Wynberg Boys’ Junior School (WBJS) descended on their brother school and frenemy Grey Junior in Gqeberha.
With Covid-19 restrictions at last relaxed, this was the first time in two years that the Wynberg school was again able to undertake the trip to maintain the fixture against Grey Junior.
Travelling about 750 km to lay down the gauntlet were the rugby, hockey and cross-country u-10 to u-13 teams, the squash first and second teams and 25 concert band musicians.
A total of 27 school staff as well as many Wynberg families made the trip to show their steadfast (and sometimes very vocal) support.
Headmaster Cedric Poleman says the derby provides learners with the opportunity to represent their school with pride in showcasing the true spirit of “Supera Moras” (overcoming difficulties). “The unique nature of boys’ schools is once again celebrated through this traditional exchange.”
Poleman adds that what makes the trip unique is that it is not only the school’s “A-teams” who get to have this experience.
“This year, we could field at least four teams at every age level. For many boys, this will be the only occasion they can travel with their junior school.”
He says the hope is that learners will develop lifelong friendships, not only among themselves but with the Grey boys.
“Competing against your rival during the day and then going home to be hosted with them for the night develops a very different camaraderie and friendship,” says Poleman.
While memories that will last a lifetime were made by all, each learner took something unique away from the tour.
For Connor Kruger (u-12), the part he enjoyed the most was being able to play rugby as well as supporting his peers while they played their sports.
“The moment I will take away with me which will last forever is beating Grey for the first time,” says Connor.
Brett Liddell says he enjoyed meeting his host family and attending the sports events.
“The highlight of the tour for me was winning my u-10 cross-country race,” says Brett.
Justin Igilige (u-13) says the squash was challenging. “Grey is a good school, but it was a good experience to play against them,” he says.
Ethan Klientjies, who plays hockey and participates in the concert band, says he will always think back on the experience with fondness.
“Playing hockey and piano in the concert band alongside my Grey Junior peers made me feel like I was part of an extended family,” he says.
