A Rivalry Written in History

Graeme vs St Andrew’s | Since 1878

There are rugby matches… and then there are fixtures that carry the weight of history. Tomorrow, Graeme College and St Andrew’s College meet once again in a derby that’s been played for nearly 150 years — and it’s one of the oldest schoolboy rugby rivalries in the country.

First played in 1878, this isn’t just a game. It’s tradition passed down through generations. It’s school pride, community spirit, and a bit of something you can’t quite describe unless you’ve stood on the sidelines and felt it.

A Historic Weekend for SA Rugby

This weekend is a rare one. The three oldest schoolboy rugby derbies in South Africa are all being played:

SACS vs Bishops – first played in 1873

Graeme vs St Andrew’s – since 1878

Dale vs Queen’s – since 1891

That’s not just special — it’s a celebration of where it all began.

Two Schools. One Legacy.

St Andrew’s College (founded in 1855) is the 6th oldest school in South Africa. Graeme College (founded in 1873) is the 22nd. But when it comes to tradition on the rugby field, both schools punch well above those numbers.

Graeme claimed victory in that very first clash in 1878, and over the years, the fixture has only grown in significance. In 2006, it was named an FNB Classic Clash, drawing national attention and adding another layer of legacy.

This derby is about far more than the First XV. It’s a full-day festival of rugby, from U14s to the final whistle, with pupils, families, Old Boys, and the Makhanda community all showing up for the occasion.

A Proud Rugby Heritage

Both schools have produced standout players who’ve made their mark far beyond school fields.

Graeme Old Boys include:

Hennie le Roux – 1995 World Cup winner

Kotaro Matsushima – Japanese international, 2019 World Cup standout

Batho Hlekani – Current SA U20 player

Dirk de Vos, Tony Markow, and the Watson brothers among others

St Andrew’s legends include:

Nick Mallett, Ryan Kankowski, Russell Bennett, Danie Craven, and Sintu Manjezi

And let’s not forget the milestones:

Last year, St Andrew’s celebrated 125 years of rugby on Lower Field

The year before, Graeme marked its 150th anniversary

See You on the Sidelines

This derby isn’t just about who lifts the trophy. It’s about tradition. It’s about legacy. It’s about remembering where we come from and celebrating the spirit of schoolboy rugby in South Africa.

Whichever side you’re on — we’ll see you on the touchline. Let’s make more history.

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