Northerns boys will combine skill and experience at IPT
Northerns is sending an u18A boys’ team laden with skill and experience to the SASHOC Interprovincial Tournament (IPT), which takes place at Hilton College from 29 June to 4 July.
“We have an exciting group with a good balance of experience, work ethic, skill, and character,” Steve Paulo, the team’s head coach, told SuperSport Schools News.
“Our main goal for IPT is to grow as a unit throughout the week, represent Northerns with pride, and compete in a way that reflects the values and standards of our union.”
Paulo said there is a belief within the side that they can compete and challenge for the title. However, the coaching staff won’t pressure the playing group to focus on results. Instead, the primary focus will be on continuous improvement.
“If the boys continue to improve daily, stay connected as a team, and execute the basics consistently, we believe they can be very competitive against any opposition at the tournament,” Paulo explained.
Rudolph Thiaart and Liam Brooker will form the two pillars at the back. They bring physicality, defensive discipline, and strong leadership to the defence, and Paulo is pleased that they’re on Northerns’ side. “They’re a Blues’ pairing we would take to war with us,” he said.
Andrea Clerihew, Lesego Msiza, and Wium van Niekerk will form the engine room of the side. That trio brings an unrelenting high work rate and strong attacking quality to the mix.
The above-named quintet also provides invaluable experience. Clerihew, Thiaart, and Brooker were members of the SA u17 team last year, while Msiza and Van Niekerk were selected for the SA Schools Indoor side.
Paulo went on to describe Luyanda Ndodana, Zean Marais, Morerro Gumbi, and Bonani Booi as new faces that bring maturity and composure to the group. Another quartet of newcomers – Milan Booysen, Kean Cornilieson, Rori Ledwaba, and Moya Machaba – offers considerable flair.
“One of the strengths of this squad is the balance across the field. We have strong leadership through the spine of the team, exciting attacking players who can create moments, and hardworking defenders who understand their roles well. Just as importantly, the group has shown a strong willingness to work for each other, which is always vital at the IPT level,” Paulo said.
Northerns enjoyed a strong showing at the 2025 SASHOC National Week, finishing in third place. They’ll be eager to advance beyond the semi-finals this year.
“Paired with experience and leadership, we have an important supporting group within the squad, with players who bring versatility, intensity, and depth to the team. IPT tournaments are demanding, and success often depends on the contribution of the entire squad rather than just individuals,” Paulo said.
“Ultimately, the focus for this group is to enjoy the opportunity, embrace the challenge, and represent Northerns in a manner that makes their schools, families, and province proud.”
Team:
Andrea Clerihew (Garsfontein), Armand van der Vyver (Garsfontein), Bonani Booi (Cornwall Hill College), Bongai Vuyeqaba (PBHS), Kean Cornelissen (Affies), Lesego Msiza (Garsfontein), Liam Brooker (PBHS), Luyanda Ndodana (Sutherland), Milan Booysen (PBHS), Morero Gumbi (PBHS), Moyahabo Machaba (Midstream College), Rorisang Boshomane (PBHS), Rorisang Ledwaba (PBHS), Rudolph Thiart (Affies), Wium van Niekerk (Affies), Zéann Marais (Affies).
- Player Profile – Kean Cornelissen (Affies) - 2026-06-11
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- Player Profile – Kirsten Booysen (Oranje) - 2026-06-09
