Inaugural Buffalo League showdown

Schools were treated to a rugby spectacle at the Inaugural Buffalo League final at Mark’s Park Sports Club. More than any other sport in SA, rugby draws the crowds and the Buffalo League matches were no exception. As with every rugby match, the atmosphere was tense and competitive. Officials from the Golden Lions Rugby Union, Wits Rugby Club, parents and learners flocked together to watch various teams play. Sam Pretorius, teacher responsible for rugby said: “Players were tough and uncompromising during the match but always shake hands and share a few jokes with opposition players.”

Rugby always comes with its own unique atmosphere – The best feeling a rugby player can experience is playing in front of a packed stadium with lots of enthusiasm from supporters. However supporters can be very unforgiving to a missed tackle.

The scoring system which was used was opposed to the experimental system of the Varsity Cup, which allowed attacking exciting and attractive in all age groups. Greenside High’s first captain Christo Stratis was given thumbs up for a job well done by his school. Pretorius mentioned that Stratis lead by example and was willing to put his body on the line for his team and school. He also added that Stratis is a skilled fetcher who effected a number of turnovers and penalties. “He is tough and uncompromising when he plays, but displays maturity and sportsmanship through the calm and respectful manner which motivates his team,” he said.

Pretorius added that, “We were very happy with the overall level of rugby played and particularly pleased by the fact that the Greenside boys did so well.”

“All the blood, sweat and tears paid off and we were ecstatic with Greenside’s results,” he concluded.

Final results U16: Greenside beat The Hill High from the south of Joburg 24 –12

First: Greenside beat Sandringham High from the east 21 –0