Rugby Report
The team faced two tough fixtures against strong local opposition, gaining valuable experience and lessons along the way.
Match 1: Union vs Langenhoven Gimnasium (Final)
The hosts came out firing from the start, applying relentless pressure through well-executed up-and-under kicks that unsettled Union’s back three. Costly errors allowed Langenhoven to capitalize, racing to a commanding 34–7 lead at halftime.
Union, however, showed immense resilience in the second half. By changing their attacking strategy, they clawed their way back to level the score at 34–34. Unfortunately, fatigue set in, and two lapses in concentration led to quick tries for the hosts. The final whistle saw Union defeated 48–34, but the spirited comeback highlighted the team’s adaptability and fighting spirit.
Match 2: Union vs Oudtshoorn High School
Union’s second fixture was against Oudtshoorn High, who entered the game brimming with confidence after a big win over Fish Hoek. Anticipating wide attacks, Union’s defense closed down the wings effectively, but this left gaps in midfield which Oudtshoorn exploited twice.
In the second half, Union’s reserves made a strong impact, dominating possession. However, forced errors and “white line fever” proved costly. Despite their efforts, Union went down 35–12. While not the desired result, the match showcased the team’s ability to adapt defensively and highlighted areas for growth.
Positives and Highlights
Resilience & Adaptability: The ability to change attacking strategies mid-game and fight back from a large deficit.
Defensive Lessons: Exposure to varied opposition tactics will strengthen Union’s defensive responses in future fixtures.
Player of the Tournament: A special congratulations to Josh Arends, whose outstanding performances earned him this accolade.
Off-Field Experiences
The tour was not only about rugby. The team enjoyed a memorable outing to an ostrich farm, learning about different species and products, and even feeding the ostriches. Recovery sessions with compression boots and massages were a special treat, ensuring the players were well looked after.
Hockey Report
This was our first time attending the Langenhoven Gymnasium Festival. Initially, there was some disappointment around sacrificing a long weekend for only three games. However, once we arrived, the festival atmosphere quickly changed our perspective and it became clear that the girls truly needed this experience.
From the start, we established ourselves as the team to beat at the festival.
Results:
• UHS 1st Team Girls vs Langenhoven Gymnasium: UHS won 1–0
Our girls dominated from the start to secure a 1–0 victory. Despite some challenging decisions from the umpires throughout the game, what stood out most was the team’s composure. The girls remained calm and did not allow external factors to affect their performance. A true mark of the First teams’ class and maturity.
• UHS vs Dirkie Uys: UHS won 10–0
• UHS vs King Edward High School: UHS won 8–0
Across all matches, the UHS displayed excellent attacking hockey and disciplined structures.
Man of the Match Awards:
• Leigh-ann Murray (x2)
• Amy Waddelow
• Katelyn Trollip
It was especially rewarding to hear positive feedback from other coaches and spectators, who described our brand of hockey as exciting to watch. More importantly, they acknowledged the respect and humility shown by our players throughout the tournament. We are proud not only of the results, but of the manner in which our girls represented the school, playing with intensity and always upholding the school values.
Well done, girls!
