Ken Short Water Polo Festival kicks off at Jeppe as South Africa’s top school teams deliver dominant opening performances
Twenty schools unite in Johannesburg for a development-focused showcase of emerging water polo talent and competitive school sport.
The Ken Short Water Polo Festival kicked off on February 26, with 20 schools from across South Africa gathering for a weekend dedicated to sharing skills, building camaraderie, and growing the sport.
Hosted at Jeppe High School for Boys, the festival is not just about results but about creating a platform where young athletes can challenge themselves, learn from one another, and deepen their love for water polo.
@caxton.schools 🎤 Deputy Headmaster Jason Tee shares the purpose of the Ken Short Festival and what’s in store for attendees! #KenShortFest #CaxtonSchools #JeppeBoys
Deputy Headmaster Dr Jason Tee said the festival is intentionally structured to focus on development and experience rather than competition alone.
“We’ve got 20 teams coming from all over the country. The purpose of this festival – and it is a festival, not a tournament – is to give boys participating in polo at all levels the opportunity to expand and test their skills in the spirit of healthy competition,” he said.
From the first whistle, the pool was alive with energy as teams displayed determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
@caxton.schools First goal alert! Selborne strikes before Jeppe can respond in the match against Jeppe at the #KenShortFest #CaxtonSchools #JeppeBoys
Jeppe High School for Boys set the tone early in their opening match against Parktown Boys’ High School, delivering a dominant performance to secure a convincing 12-0 victory and give the hosts a confident start in front of their home supporters.
St David’s Marist Inanda emerged as one of the standout teams of the day with a 14-0 win over Grey College. Their attacking precision and disciplined play paid off.
Maritzburg College delivered one of the day’s strongest performances, defeating St Benedict’s College 9-0 in a commanding display of skill and coordination.
@caxton.schools St Stithians vs SACS: SACS set the pace early, scoring the opening goal within 6 seconds. Fans knew this was a must-watch clash, and the excitement was justified—less than 6 minutes in, SACS already led 4–0. At half-time, SACS sat comfortably on 5, while St Stithians remained scoreless. SACS defended their status as one of the best, finishing the game 9–1 and proving once again why they are a team to watch. #KenShortFest #CaxtonSchools #JeppeBoys
St Alban’s College, which was scheduled to play Michaelhouse, had to withdraw from the festival due to unforeseen circumstances. St David’s stepped in as a substitute and went on to secure another win, defeating Michaelhouse 4-2.
One of the standout performances also came from Durban High School, which recorded a commanding 8-0 victory over Parktown Boys’ High School.
Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool, known as Affies, secured a solid 4-2 win against Westville Boys’ High School. The match was competitive, but Affies showed composure and control in key moments to secure victory.
In another closely contested fixture, St John’s College faced a tough challenge against Bishops Diocesan College. Both teams displayed strong defensive efforts, but Bishops ultimately claimed a narrow 3-2 victory.
Also read: Ken Short Water Polo Festival at Jeppe Boys set to boost SA school water polo
South African College Schools (SACS) delivered one of the day’s most dominant performances, defeating St Stithians College 9-1. SACS controlled the tempo from the start, showcasing sharp attacking combinations and defending their status as one of the top teams in the game.
Meanwhile, King Edward VII School (KES) impressed with a strong 5-1 victory over Selborne College. KES demonstrated excellent teamwork and resilience, capitalising on scoring opportunities.
The first day of the festival has already delivered memorable moments, impressive performances, and valuable learning experiences for all involved.
With many matches still to come, teams and supporters can look forward to more exciting action as the festival continues today. The basketball teams will also showcase their talent and skill, with games starting at 08:00. Water polo fixtures will begin at 7:30, with KES facing Grey College in the first match of the day.
