Rector’s eNews 13: 29 April 2026

It was an absolute privilege for Michaelhouse to play host to our first major 1st Team and U16A Hockey Tournament this past weekend.

With 10 top 1st teams and 12 U16A sides travelling from all over the country to the Midlands, our school was transformed into a hub of high-performance sport. While the mist and rain early in the weekend tested our resolve, the weather eventually relented, giving way to two spectacular, sunny days on Saturday and Sunday that showcased Michaelhouse at its best.

The standard of hockey on display was excellent. It was competitive and physically demanding yet underpinned by a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines the schoolboy game.

The 1st XI found themselves in an exceptionally tough pool. Despite only losing a single game throughout the entire tournament, they finished 5th overall. Their only defeat came at the hands of a clinical Northwood side, who ultimately went on to win the tournament. Our 1st team showed incredible grit and can be proud of their consistency against some top teams.

The U16A team played cohesive, intelligent hockey. They fought their way through to a high-stakes final against Rondebosch Boys’ High, narrowly missing out on the trophy with a final score of 3-2. It was a thrilling game that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

As it was a closed weekend, the Michaelhouse boys were out in full force. It was a heartening sight to see so much support across all five days of the hockey tournament, as well as for our rugby fixtures against Kearsney on Saturday.

A particular highlight for me was the Friday night hockey matches; seeing the school come out en masse to back the 1st XI under lights, was indicative of the spirit of Michaelhouse.

An event of like this, balancing 22 teams, schedules, and logistics, doesn’t happen easily. I have been overwhelmed by the feedback from visiting coaches and parents who were glowing in their praise of the tournament organisation.

My sincere thanks go to Mr Grant von Mayer, Mr Ryan Ravenscroft, Mr Nick Berichon, and their dedicated team. Furthermore, we owe a debt of gratitude to our Kitchen and Operations Staff, whose tireless work behind the scenes ensured the boys were fed and  the facilities and pitches remained in top condition despite the early weather challenges.

Finally, to our parents, thank you for your presence on the sidelines. Whether you were huddled under umbrellas on Friday or enjoying the sun on Sunday, your support for the boys was heartfelt and much appreciated. It is this community spirit that makes Michaelhouse such a special place for these young men to grow.

On a different note, I would like to reiterate the sentiments shared in the letter sent out earlier this week regarding the upcoming Derby Day against Hilton College. This traditional fixture is a celebration of the long-standing camaraderie between our two schools, and while we eagerly anticipate the excellence our boys will display on the hockey and rugby fields, we must ensure our rivalry remains rooted in friendship and mutual respect.

We are unambiguous in stating that post-match events, such as the “Red/Black” party, are strictly private and are not sanctioned or condoned by Michaelhouse or Hilton. As many boys will be on overnight leave, the responsibility for their safety and conduct rests with you, their parents. Please remember that school rules apply throughout the term and bringing the school’s name into disrepute remains a serious disciplinary transgression. Our goal is to ensure the weekend is defined by pride and integrity rather than avoidable regret.

I look forward to catching up with many of you on the side of the astros and rugby fields on Saturday.

Please click here to read the Rector’s eNews