The wait is finally over as the 22nd Annual King Edward VII School (KES) Easter Rugby and Hockey Festival gets underway today, bringing with it the unmistakable buzz of one of South Africa’s most cherished school sporting traditions.

From early morning, the historic KES grounds will begin to fill with players, coaches, families, and supporters, all gathering to celebrate a long weekend of top-tier schoolboy sport.

Read more: KES Easter Rugby Festival returns (video)

With more than 900 participants and 54 matches scheduled across the festival, day one sets the tone for what promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, pride, and sportsmanship.

Johannesburg’s crisp autumn air is expected to provide near-perfect conditions for the opening fixtures, with mild temperatures and clear skies creating an ideal backdrop for both rugby and hockey. It is the kind of weather that invites supporters to settle in for the day, whether along the touchlines or enjoying a relaxed picnic on the lawns.

Teams from across the country, including the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng, as well as visiting sides from Australia, will take to the field, each eager to make a strong start.

Day one fixtures include:

HOCKEY:

Weinberg Astro King Edward VII School

• 07:30 Pearson High School vs Helpmekaar Kollege
• 08:50 Kearsney College vs St Andrew’s College
• 10:10 Northwood School vs Selbourne College
• 11:30 Parktown Boys High School vs Westville Boys High School
• 12:50 Dale College vs Maritzburg College
• 14:10 Glenwood High School vs Hoërskool Eldoraigne
• 15:30 Hoërskool Waterkloof vs Queens College
• 16:50 King Edward VII School vs Grey College
• 18:10 St. John’s College vs St Charles College

RUGBY:

John Hurry Field 1

• 10:30 King Edward VII School U14F vs Raiders U14F
• 11:30 King Edward VII School U14E vs Soweto Eagles U14
• 12:30 King Edward VII School U14D vs Kagiso Sting U14
• 13:30 King Edward VII School U14C vs Alexandra Wolves U14

Also read: KES U16 team runs riot with 50-8 victory over Lions Invitational

John Hurry Field 2

• 11:00 U16 Girls vs U16 Girls
• 12:10 U18 Girls vs U18 Girls
• 13:30 King Edward VII School 2nd XV vs GLRU Invitation 15

As the first whistle blows, anticipation will give way to action, with fierce rivalries, new matchups, and moments of brilliance expected throughout the day.

Beyond the results, the festival remains a celebration of community and connection. Old boys return to relive memories, families gather to support the next generation, and friendships are forged on and off the field.

Tickets are available for R33, giving supporters the chance to be part of the electric atmosphere.

Whether you are backing your school, discovering rising stars, or simply enjoying a day out, the opening day at KES promises a vibrant start to a weekend where sport, tradition, and spirit come together.

For more Easter festival highlights and school action, follow #CaxtonSchools online.