Jeppe High School for Boys: Building on momentum in 2024

As the rugby season approaches, there’s a buzz of anticipation at Jeppe High School for Boys, fueled by the accolades and achievements of 2023.

Two of last season’s matches stand out vividly – a home win against Monument and a thrilling clash against Affies on 27 May, which was decided in the last minute.

Despite a valiant effort from Jeppe, Affies clinched a narrow victory just before the final whistle, which left a bit of a bitter taste in the mouth of Johannesburg side. However, despite the disappointment of defeat, there were moments of brilliance which showcased the team’s potential to lock horns with the bigger, very physical Afrikaans schools. 

With 12 wins under their belt, including standout victories against formidable opponents, like King Edward VII (KES) and Durban High School (DHS), Jeppe’s first XV earned admiration, from spectators and referees alike, for their playing ability and their sportsmanship.

At the end of the season, at the prestigious Bestmed Golden Lions Referees Society’s annual prize-giving dinner, Jeppe was named the School of the Year.

That recognition from the Lions union’s referees was a testament to the exceptional sportsmanship, skill, and dedication displayed by Jeppe’s rugby teams at all levels throughout the season, and the boys in black and white will aim to carry that legacy forward this season, when they take to Collard Field. 

With a reshuffle in the coaching staff, including the transition of Carl Spilhaus to the role of Director of Rugby and the appointment of Drickus Venter as Head Coach of the first XV, Jeppe is aiming for further growth.

Spilhaus said: “I didn’t quite know what to expect, having not worked with all the boys, but there’s undoubtedly talent and I’ve always wanted to do this job as Director of Rugby.

“I’m looking forward to it, and we’ll see how the season unfolds, giving us an opportunity to put new structures in place.”

Venter is well-known in the Jeppe community, having served it for over a decade, and he brings a deep understanding of the school’s rugby tradition to his new post, coupled with some fresh insights and ideas. His appointment promises a continuation of the prevailing strategy and team culture while also encouraging an infusion of new energy and an opportunity enhance a positive culture amongst the players.

Ahead of the new season, Jeppe is gearing up for more than just another successful run on the field. They’re aiming to build on the performances of the past two very successful seasons. The first team, which will include several members of last year’s outfit, is set to welcome some fine young talent into it ranks. 

With Venter setting the course for the side, the team is focused on honing their skills and pushing boundaries to reach new heights of success.  

Jeppe will be in action at the King Edward VII Easter Festival, where the team will kick off its season against some of the country’s top schools. The festival will also allow the coaches to gauge where their teams are, what their strengths are, and what weaknesses need to be addressed. 

Five Players to Watch This Season

Players to watch out for include lock Luke Cannon, who is not afraid to get physical in the mauls and rucks while providing the scrum with plenty of horsepower to contend with the front rows of larger opposition. The talented sportsman is also a key member of the school’s 1st XI cricket team.

Kuthadzo Rashivaga was instrumental in the side’s strong performances last year, with the fullback earning a spot in the Golden Lions Craven Week team. The number 15 shows great promise both on attack and defence, he will be hungry to produce another successful year. It’s seldom that his name doesn’t appear on the try scorers’ list.

Another leftover from last season’s side, is Risimi Khosa, who wears the number four jersey. He ensures the second row is blessed with experience and the power to bolster the front row. Khosa wears his heart on his sleeve and has a non-stop motor. Last year, he was part of the Golden Lions Academy squad, which won the Academy Week, played at Jeppe, beating Western Province in the final. This year, he’ll have his eyes on a place in the Craven Week team.

Tight-head prop Luca Trevisan, who represented the Golden Lions u17 team in 2023, will also be aiming to make the step-up as he chases a place in the Lions’ Craven Week side, too. 

Thulani Shabalala started the 2023 season on the bench but forced his way into the starting XV, playing on the right wing. He often took on the goal-kicking duties, with great success. It will be interesting to see which position he plays in this season.

Last year, against DHS, Shabalala put 17 points on the board to help his side to a hard-fought 39-36 victory. He’ll be aiming for more of those kinds of days in 2024.

As the countdown to the first game begins, Jeppe is a team many will be eager to see in action, as they seek to add another exciting chapter to the school’s storied rugby legacy.

Jeppe’s motto is Forti Nihil Difficilius, which translates to Nothing Is Too Difficult For The Brave, and that neatly encapsulates the spirit of the boys of Jeppe, and the attitude they will bring to the field in pursuit of another outstanding season.

The Fixtures for 2024: