It’s school rugby rivalry at its best in this year’s FNB Classic Clash

It’s a clash of the Randburg titans as Hoërskool Randburg take on Hoërskool Linden in this year’s FNB Classic Clash rugby tournament on 12 May.

This is the fifth year the two school rivals have clashed, and spirits are high on both sides. Old boys and rugby fanatics are invited to watch the epic matches between the schools.

There are more than 30 FNB Classic Clashes featuring schools from across the country.

Hoërskool Randburg’s deputy principal and head of sport, Francois Vosloo said, “It is such an honour to be invited to host a tournament like this.”

Each year the attendance has grown and the game is expected to pull in more than 4 000 spectators.

“They are rivals, but many students know each other from primary school, so it’s a strong community gathering with amazing rugby.”

Hoërskool Randburg’s first team coach Corné Basson feels confident ahead of the clash.

“The preparation against strong schools during the off-season has been great. We have four junior provincial players in our team and very strong senior players, so I am confident going into the match.
“We are strong rivals of Linden, however, this is a fantastic event that helps to bring both schooling communities together.”

Hoërskool Randburg’s first team captain Stephan Bresler added, “We can’t wait for the big day next week… There is a lot of preparation put into it and a lot of hard work.”

Hoërskool Linden’s first team coach Jaco Booysen said, “The rivalry between our schools is epic, and at a school level, this is as big as it gets… For us, this is on the same level as Blue Bulls versus Lions.”

Hoërskool Linden has won the last four FNB Classic Clashes.

“I think both the boys and coaches experience a lot of pressure, but we feel confident heading into the match,” added Booysen. “Hoërskool Randburg is a strong team, and while we respect them, I believe our team is stronger – we want to make this win five in a row.”

Linden’s first team captain James Muirhead said, “This is not going to be a game that is a walkover. Randburg is a strong team, so we have put in a lot of training for the tournament, both mentally and physically.

“The whole school is excited for this and we are expecting a full crowd.”

The day will start at 8am at Hoërskool Randburg with a variety of family activities on offer. The match kicks off in the afternoon. Tickets are R10 at the gate.

Details: Hoërskool Randburg 011 782 6226.