The Maritzburg College basketball team recently participated in the inaugural Junior Jenny Orchard Invitational Basketball Tournament, which hosted teams from across South Africa in both the U14 and U15 age groups. The tournament aimed to showcase the best junior basketball players in the country and grow the sport's reach. Maritzburg College entered teams in each age group, with the U14A team winning the championship after a fantastic effort in the final against St John’s College, winning 60-49.
The U15 basketball team had a podium finish, placing third overall after a tough semi-final defeat to eventual winners ESCA. The team showed determination in their pursuit of success and eventually won the third and fourth playoff match against St John’s College, 53-48. The tournament featured 42 teams, over 500 players, and coaches, and could not have been achieved without the support of staff and sponsors, including Granny Mac’s, Truder Snacks, and Parklane Spar.
In cricket, the Maritzburg College U17 Stayers had a strong week at the Michaelhouse U17 Stayers Festival, which took place from September 29. The team produced excellent individual performances, including Johnson’s superb 117 against Kempton Park, supported by Thomas’ 33, as College posted 260/9 to secure a 62-run victory. Wilson was outstanding with the ball, taking 3/30 against St Benedict’s and 3/40 against Kempton Park.
The Maritzburg College cycling team had an outstanding performance at the Schools Cycling South Africa National Finals 2026, held in Stellenbosch. Kayden Searle, Brynn Fourie, Caden Wood, and Rourke Champkins demonstrated determination, resilience, and sportsmanship over two days of intense racing. The team competed against some of the strongest young cyclists from across South Africa and Namibia.
In water polo, the Maritzburg College U16 team delivered a weekend filled with energy, teamwork, and College spirit at the Nick Rey U16 Tournament, held at Durban High School. The team had three impressive victories, including wins over DHS Invitational, Glenwood High School, and St Charles College, finishing the tournament in 10th place after eight competitive matches.
The Maritzburg College rugby team continues to demonstrate its values beyond the field. The first XV players, L Mabanga and D. du Toit, joined the College Rugby Department in handing over rugby equipment to the local community, continuing a meaningful initiative that takes place every year. The project was spearheaded by the director of rugby, Hendre Marnitz.
Additionally, several Maritzburg College boys took on the legendary Roof of Africa in Maseru during the school holiday, demonstrating courage, skill, and serious determination. The participants included Josh Don-Wauchope, Rourke Champkins, Matt Rawson, Oliver Hoatson, Brad Cook, Josh Slevin, and Josh Pooler, who competed in various classes, including Bronze and Iron.
Key points
- Maritzburg College teams achieved success in multiple sports tournaments, including basketball, cricket, cycling, water polo, and rugby.
