The atmosphere in Stellenbosch and Bloemfontein is electric this week as two of the most anticipated fixtures on the school calendar take centre stage: Paul Roos Gymnasium vs Grey College and Hoër Meisieskool Bloemhof vs Sekondêre Meisieskool Oranje. It’s a celebration of tradition, sport, culture, and camaraderie that has been lasting for decades.
A Storied Rivalry: Paul Roos & Grey
Since their first clash in 1967, Paul Roos and Grey have built one of South Africa’s most respected Interschools traditions. This year, the weekend is packed with 13 sporting codes and cultural activities, with 81 Paul Roos teams competing against Grey across multiple disciplines. Click here for the weekend programme.
For Acting Rector Gwen Olivier, the event embodies the school motto Semper Splendidior (“Always better, always more excellent”) – urging learners to focus not only on the scoreboard but on the sportsmanship, pride, respect, and gentlemanship that define true competition.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, she reminds the community, “Sport has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.”
Olivier also gave a special word of thanks to everyone involved in organising the momentous occasion, noting that the contribution of Grey’s staff and parents, the coaches and managers of both schools, and the officials cannot be ignored.
Friendship in Competition: Bloemhof & Oranje
The annual meeting between Bloemhof and Oranje has its own unique spirit – one that combines fierce competition with deep friendship. The tradition began in 1996 when Bloemhof joined Paul Roos on their trip to Bloemfontein, arranging their own fixtures against Oranje and St Michael’s. From humble beginnings, including sleeping on trains to save costs, it has grown into a large-scale exchange involving nearly two-thirds of the school.
Today, the programme spans far more than netball and hockey. From debating and drama to choir, tennis, chess, athletics, and even volleyball, the event offers “something for everyone,” as the Bloemhof community likes to say. Whether home or away, visiting learners are hosted by local families, a tradition that fosters lasting bonds.
As the schools mark their 27th Interschools in 2025, old stories resurface: lost sneakers spotted on station platforms, buses breaking down en route to the Free State, and the unforgettable chaos of travel days. But above all, it’s the laughter, late-night chats, and shared experiences that make these weekends so treasured.
More Than a Scoreboard
For both sets of fixtures, the heart of Interschools lies beyond the results. It’s in the friendships forged, the voices hoarse from cheering, the proud traditions upheld, and the lessons learned in teamwork and resilience.
This weekend, Stellenbosch-learners will decorate Bloemfontein with colour, sound, and school spirit. Here’s to every player, performer, and supporter who will make the 2025 Interschools one for the history books!