Affies edge Michaelhouse as day two of Ken Short Water Polo Festival delivers thrilling action
Jeppe Boys hosts intense battles as top South African schools showcase skill, determination, and inspiring journeys
Day two of the annual Ken Short Water Polo Festival at Jeppe Boys saw some electrifying matches, with Affies securing a thrilling 7-5 victory over Michaelhouse.
Both sides displayed impressive skill, but Affies clinched the win with a last-minute goal after dominating possession from the centre.
Jeppe Boys coach David Johnson, a former South African national player, shared his journey with young athletes at the festival.
WATCH: Affies beat Michaelhouse
@caxton.schools Last-minute drama! 🏊♂️ Affies beat Michaelhouse 7-5 in day two of the KenShortFest. Who’s ready for more epic matches? 🔥 #SchoolWaterPolo #CaxtonSchools #JeppeBoys
Like many learners participating in the 2026 Ken Short Festival, Johnson saw his dreams come true when he wore the national jersey.
“From school colours to team colours, I believe that with hard work and determination, nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams,” he said.
Now representing OJ Eagles Men’s and the South African men’s team, Johnson has already played at the World Aquatics Men’s U20 Water Polo Championships in Zagreb, Croatia, and is currently selected for the Men’s Water Polo World Cup 2026 – Division 2 in Malta.
Between 2021 and 2023, he represented Jeppe Boys, making the Central Gauteng teams that competed in Cape Town, KwaZulu-Natal, and Port Elizabeth.
“Though at just 20 I have achieved what a player can dream, nothing is achieved without hard work,” he emphasised.
He also applauded Jeppe Boys for their aim to remain competitive in school water polo.
The festival continues to heat up, with more exciting fixtures anticipated as schools compete for top honours in this prestigious event.
Water Polo results from day two:
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KES dominated Grey College 6-1
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St David’s defeated Selborne 4-1
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Bishop smashed St Stithians 8-2
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St John’s and SACS drew 2-2
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Bishops edged Maritzburg 5-2
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Pretoria Boys and DHS drew 3-3
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Affies triumphed over Michaelhouse 7-5
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St Benedict’s lost 2-16 to Kearsney
The 2026 Ken Short Festival promises more intense battles in the days ahead, making it a must-watch event for South African school sport fans and an inspiration for aspiring athletes.
Catch all the action at Jeppe Boys this weekend:
@caxton.schools The water’s on fire! 🔥 Schools clash in epic battles at the #KenShortFest – goals, saves, and last-minute thrills all day! 🏊♂️💦 #SchoolWaterPolo #KenShortFest #JeppeBoys #CaxtonSchools
