Jozi set for 2025’s ultimate school sports showdown
St John’s, St Stithians and KES festivals return this Easter as flagship events in Gauteng’s sporting calendar.
Johannesburg is set to host its most-anticipated school sports weekend of the year, with the 2025 editions of the St John’s Easter Sports Festival, St Stithians Sports Festival and King Edward VII School (KES) Easter Festival.
@abinjozi What began as a simple idea after my first schoolboy rugby Saturday is now becoming a reality—a newspaper dedicated to hyper-local school sports coverage, kicking off with this year’s Easter Festivals. See you at the games! #CaxtonSchools #JoburgSchools #EasterRugbyFestivals #BoyMom
These events have become cornerstones in Gauteng’s school sporting calendar, drawing large crowds and showcasing top-tier schools’ talent.
St John’s College Easter Rugby Festival
This festival attracts leading schools from across the nation, celebrating the best in schoolboy rugby.
A new addition to the Easter Rugby Festival this year is the U16 fixtures on Easter Monday.
Saints SportsFest
Celebrating over four decades, the Saints Sports Festival has evolved into a comprehensive showcase, including rugby, hockey, netball, squash, and tennis.
The 2024 festival welcomed over 1 100 participants from more than 85 schools.
The 2025 edition promises to continue this tradition, offering thrilling matchups across multiple disciplines.
Photo: St Stithians College.
KES Easter Festival
Renowned for its competitive rugby and hockey fixtures, the KES Easter Festival continues to showcase high-calibre performances.
The 2024 festival highlighted emerging talents, setting the stage for an equally thrilling 2025 event.
This year, 12 rugby and 14 hockey teams from across the country will participate, promising another exciting display of skill and sportsmanship.
Players and matches to watch
While specific fixtures and player rosters for 2025 are pending release, historical performances provide insights into potential standout athletes.
For instance, in previous editions, teams like Paarl Boys’ High and Jeppe High School have showcased exceptional skills.
Observers can look forward to similar emerging talents making their mark in the upcoming festivals.
Pinnacle weekend for Gauteng
The convergence of these three prestigious festivals over the Easter weekend solidifies Johannesburg’s reputation as a hub for school sports.
The influx of teams, supporters, and enthusiasts transforms the city into a vibrant tapestry of athleticism and camaraderie, making it Gauteng’s busiest and most eagerly awaited school sports weekend.
As the 2025 festivals approach, excitement builds for what promises to be a memorable showcase of youth sports excellence.
