Spring was the culmination of a dream turned into reality at Potchefstroom High School for Boys with the reopening of the CD Hope Swimming Pool after seven years.

The pool, which has been out of commission since 2019, is now functional again thanks to the generous contributions of the Old Moois (alumni of Boys High), who contributed toward the refurbishment of the 25×23-metre pool. According to Potch Boys High factotum, Jaco Dippenaar, a new floor was put in, which took a month and a half. Grant Nelson from Lifestyle Swimming Pools was responsible for the pool restoration.

“This is really an awesome moment and time in the history of Potchefstroom High School for Boys. Getting the swimming pool up and running has really been one of my dreams since coming to Boys High in 2022. It is wonderful that our swimmers will now be able to participate in galas, while our non-swimmers will have the opportunity to learn to swim,” stated Potchefstroom High School for Boys principal Mrs. Liané van der Merwe.

Van der Merwe singled out Gavin van der Merwe: Granton, 1975–1977, Mathew (matriculant in 1990) and Bronwyn Francis, as well as Stuart and Cheryl Lewis, for their contributions.

“Thank you very much to the Old Moois who contributed towards the refurbishment and helped make this dream a reality. Thanks for your commitment to preserving and enriching the legacy of Potchefstroom High School for Boys. Your support ensures that our traditions live on and that our boys continue to thrive.”

Van der Merwe also adds that the pool will bring new energy and opportunities to their school community.

“Our boys are already looking forward to the return of the Polar Bear Challenge, a cherished tradition where the principal and boys take the plunge. Reviving this tradition is more than symbolic; it reconnects us with the spirit and camaraderie that have always defined College.