Last Post

In signing off all of the tour party would like to thank you for following the blog of our exploits. We hope that you have enjoyed the brief snapshots we have given you of our fantastic experiences.

Just to finish we would like to leave you with a photograph which probably best encapsulates the exhilarating experiences that the group have enjoyed during the last 15 days.

Final Fixtures V Somerset College

Somerset College

Another early breakfast (impressive and considerable, as usual) was the prelude to picking up 12 very ecstatic and positively glowing girls, who took great pleasure in extolling the virtues of being hosted in the Cape. Photographs of bedrooms designer kitchens, larger than most UK homes and beautifully landscaped gardens were proudly showed to all. Peter our incredibly accommodating driver then took the group to the centre of Cape Town to give everyone a last opportunity to barter for gifts and artefacts in Green Market Square, once synonymous with the horrors of the slave trade. The next couple of hours were spent in glorious sunshine either rock pooling or playing football on the soft sand with the beautiful Southern Atlantic Ocean gently rolling in.

It was however necessary to begin to focus on the final task of the tour and it was pleasing to see from the entire group a sense of purpose and anticipation for what was to come.

The boys arrived at the ground eager to get changed into their warm up kit keen to be prepared effectively as they faced the prospect of returning home to the UK unbeaten. The girls equally focused departed for the impressive sporting facilities of the world famous Stellenbosch University.

Somerset College Hockey Matches

2^nd XI v Somerset College

Lost 4-1 (Amy Lawrence)

Player of the match: Clare Royle

Our final match of the tour took place on an uneven grass pitch. Katie Paul started the game with a slap to Victoria Harris. The opposition, more at home on the unfamiliar and unpredictable surface attacked with great determination in the initial stages, this meant that the defence found itself working harder than anticipated just to repel their attacks. Georgia Dyer, brave throughout showed some amazing skill by defending the goal with just her stick for one of the strikes at the goal.

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Despite the pressure St Edward's battled hard, when in possession and showed glimpses of real enterprise when attacking opportunities presented themselves. On a number of occasions strong tackles from Hannah Smith thwarted attacks and presented the opportunity to St Edward's to clear the ball from the D for Amy Jones and Clare Royle; moving the ball at a fast pace to initiate attacks. After half time, the freshly motivated team pulled out all the stops, with the midfielders working hard to get the ball into the oppositions D. On one such an occasion a hit from top D was received confidently by Mimi Pincott, she transferred the ball to neatly to Amy Lawrence whose well executed slap hit put St Edward's on the scoreboard. The goal, which gave St Edward’s a much needed boost and it was pleasing to see the whole squad strive to produce their best in remainder of the game. The team were not successful in achieving another goal they did however force two short corners. Despite their best efforts they were also unable to stop Somerset College scoring again.

Report by: Sarah Reid

1^st XI v Somerset College Report . written by: Alice Shea

Lost 4-1 (Georgie Cannon)

Player of the match: Millie Tupper          

The 1^st XI stepped out for the final time as a team . With emotions running high the St Edward’s squad knew they had to take control of their arousal levels if they were to compete effectively. We were under no illusions that the game was going to be tough, the opposition who had beaten St Mary’s School Johannesburg,had several national squad players in their ranks.The difficulty of the task was also compounded by the fact that many of our players had played in the previous game.

St Edwards started strongly, giving the Somerset College side a real run for their money. Quality defensive work from Tupper, Jones, Parnham and Shea prevented them from creating any early breaks. Excellent teamwork by the midfield allowed St Edward's to create a very promising attack. The ball was eventually worked to Georgie Cannon who took the ball through several defenders to perform a reverse hit which was saved, however having followed up, like all good attackers Georgie skilfully flicked the loose ball into the goal. On a high from the goal, St Edward’s continued to deny Somerset the opportunity of scoring.

However the well drilled Somerset side demonstrating high fitness and skill levels continued to create opportunities with their quick and accurate passing game. Numerous attempts were saved by goalie Dyer who played outstandingly but Somerset were not to be denied and they eventually scored a goal from a reverse hit.

Somerset went on to score three more goals through skilful play and outstanding teamwork. However, St Edwards, aided by the constant encouragement of their captain and vice remained competitive to the end as they kept their work rate high and spirits up.

"It has been my biggest pleasure captaining the 1^st XI at St Edwards and I will miss it greatly. I have been proud of everyone through the many seasons and especially this tour. I am happy to be handing the honour of the captaincy to Emily Pascoe who has been such a huge part of our successes. I am envious of her as she gets another year with these lovely people". 

Rugby V Somerset College

Rugby Report: Somerset College v St Edward’s  by Scoop Watson in association with Matt Woods

The game began with some impressive and intimidating defence from Somerset College as St Edward’s strived to impose their patterns and attacking structure on their hosts. After some initial sloppy play as a result of opposition pressure Max Roberts settled the initial nerves following some smart inter play with co centre George Pearson to cross  near the left hand corner. With the enthusiastic and raucous home supporters egging their players on, Somerset College responded with a converted try to take the lead with half time approaching.  With advice from their coaches ringing loudly in their ears the St Edward’s boys began the second half with greater purpose and composure. Good defensive pressure forced a penalty some 45 metres out which was struck seemingly with complete disdain by fly-half Tom Hage to put St Edward’s back in the lead 8 -7. Following some great work by the forwards deep in the opposition 22 a handling error allowed the impressive Somerset College right winger to break free on a powerful 80 metre run. Great determination from Tom Hage saw the seemingly un-catchable winger hauled down 5 metres from the line to everyone’s relief. Unfortunately from the ensuing ruck and a rather confusing series of penalties Somerset crossed the line to retake the lead 14 – 8. St Edward’s showing reassuring composure moved the ball swiftly to the right releasing winger Ben Harvey to score smartly in the corner. This excellent finish was sweetly converted by the boot of Tom Hage. St Edward’s playing with composure and great defensive intensity were able to extend their advantage a few minutes later with an enormous penalty from Tom Hage. With the outcome still uncertain it was pleasing to see St Edward’s control both field position and the pace of the game during the last 5 minutes of this enthralling encounter. The final whistle sounded with St Edward’s camped in the opposition 22. 
The reality of the achievement of winning all their games was palpable as the players embraced each other, eager to show their respect for the departing year 13’s, playing their last game in a School shirt. Following a series of short congratulatory speeches from all the staff and the tour captain the whole squad retired to the pavilion to enjoy the post match hospitality.

Man of the Match: Ed Ormon 

Score: Somerset College 14 - St Edward's 18

Monday 23rd July

The chance to dangle legs in the cool swimming pool situated in the sheltered hotel courtyard whilst enjoying the sunshine was too good an opportunity for many. Others used this time to do a little housekeeping in their rooms.  Most agreed a relaxed return to the centre of Stellenbosch for a spot of lunch and more retail therapy in the classy shops or market stalls was a great way to spend a few hours prior to meeting our final hosts at Somerset College which is situated in the exclusive suburb of Somerset west. On entering the campus which is set in the middle of the famous Stellenbosch wine producing area bordered by large stud farms, the whole group seemed to smile in unison. Having said goodbye to 12 extremely happy young ladies the remainder enjoyed a game of touch rugby or a paddle in the sea as the sun set spectacularly behind the mountains of the Cape.

 A pleasant relaxing day and a good night’s sleep were very much necessary in preparation for the final fixtures of the St Edward’s South Africa tour 2012. 

Ladies Night

With some of the girls due to be hosted for the last 2 nights of our south African tour the evening following the Township visit would all be the last occasion the team would all be together. To celebrate this we had a ladies night in a restaurant in the centre of Stellenbosch. We were all excited to get away from the boys and have some girlie time. After we received our food Ms Kenyon stood up and gave a very emotional toast, saying her goodbyes to the leavers and her fellow coach Miss Maffey. After a few tears, Alice Shea gave a toast saying thank-you to our afore mentioned amazing coaches and Mrs Dunn. We then left the restaurant in high spirits as we had enjoyed an amazing last night together, and joined the boys on the bus to commence the singing competition, which we the girls obviously won!

Millie Tupper

Rugby v Lagunya RFC - Nyanga Township CapeTown

St Edward’s 1^st XV v Lagunya RFC 

A revived party having enjoyed another hearty breakfast and a leisurely few hours in the centre of Stellenbosch then set out, with a slight sense of apprehension for the township of Nyanga. As the coach pulled off the motorway the reality of the life of many in this country became evident. As we pulled into the rugby club car park it was noticeable how quiet the bus was, however the air of tension was broken when Mr. Watson, Miss Maffey and Mrs Kenyon armed with a handful of mini footballs began an impromptu game of football with a small group of tiny Township children.

As the group sat on the coach with a growing sense of trepidation and apprehension everyone was fascinated to see Tom Migliuolo pull out of his bag a large variety of gorgeous toddler clothes that he had specially brought to distribute to the children of the Township. Tom, large bag in hand disembarked and began to distribute his gifts to the large number of children who gathered around the coach.

It is important to allow Tom the opportunity to express this in his own words:

Knowing that we were going to visit Lagunya Township I went around to my neighbours and asked if they had any clothes that there children had outgrown. Luckily there was a toddler in my neighbourhood who had plenty of clothes to spare! I found the experience very moving, particularly when I was able to see an 11month girl and her mother smiling with delight with their new possessions.

Prior to the main event, the boys having handed out numerous items of sports kit and clothes warmed up on the rain soddened pitch. Struggling somewhat not to be distracted by their surroundings the match day squad entered the changing rooms for a much needed pep talk from their tour coaches.

Meanwhile, armed with handfuls of presents (clothes, mini hockey sticks and footballs) the girls enjoyed the pre-match period engaging with the numerous children who crowded around them eager to either receive a gift of some sort or just to play.

Having refocused the squad led by their captain George Trevaskis returned to the pitch seemingly well prepared for the challenge ahead.

 Match report by; Tom Hage and Martin Whittimore

With two wins out of two St Edward’s arrived at the Township of Nyanga expecting a different type of game to anything they had previously experienced. From the kick off St Edward’s dominated the early breakdowns with Mike Karpathios particularly prominent After 3 minutes George Knowles taking a well timed inside pass burst through to cross the line beneath the posts, unfortunately he was unable to control his feet on the wet ground, as a consequence he stumbled and injured his shoulder in the act of scoring. 

The team followed up this initial success with well worked tries from: Martin Whittimore, George Trevaskis and Tom Hage. The Township side unbowed by this period of pressure kept themselves in the game with a series of effective counter attacks from turnovers created in part by pressure but also by a lack of discipline on the part of St Edward’s who far too frequently lost their structure and control. Having conceded two tries St Edward’s began to re-discover their control and cohesion allowing them to create a number of openings. 

Towards the end of second half St Edward’s George Trevaskis and Tom Migliuolo crossed for tries from close range to finish the game, with a degree of comfort. Even more satisfying considering 25  St Edward’s players actually took the field.

Result: Lagunya RFC 12 – St Edward’s 53 

At the conclusion of the game the team adjourned to the club house for the post match festivities. Following a welcome by the club stalwart Mr Louis Mzomba, the head teacher of a primary school in the township of Langa and presentations by Mr Watson, Dan Lewis entertained our host with a superb guitar solo. Not to be outdone our hosts responded with 2 songs. Although the words were a mystery the actions and singing were classic dynamic, harmonic traditional club songs. Having said our final goodbyes we left enriched and humbled by the quality of a once in a lifetime experience.

On returning to Stellenbosh the boys decamped to a local sports bar for extremely large burgers and the sight on numerous flat screen TV's of Ernie Els winning the Open and even more significantly Bradley Wiggins & Mark Cavendish receiving their just rewards on the Champs Elysees in the worlds greatest endurance event.

In contrast the female contingent enjoyed an exclusive “Ladies Night” in one of Stellenbosch’s more exclusive restaurants.       

Cape Town to Stellenbosch Transfer & Matches v Bryanston School

Cape Town to Stellenbosch Transfer & Matches v Bryanston School

On checking into the Hotel Greame the tour party found themselves sharing the with the staff of Bryanston School Dorset and during an informal chat they asked Miss Kenyon if the girls were interested in playing two matches against them as their opposition had cancelled, seemingly unwilling to play in the rain.

The opportunity to play against a large and prestigious English School was not to be missed, so early the next morning, having enjoyed another hearty breakfast the whole group, under threatening skies returned to Bergvleit School; the boys to train while the girls played.

St Edward’s 2^nd X1 v Bryanston

Written by: Clare Royle

In the first half of the match St Edward’s found that they had to adapt to the windy conditions. The squad defended well but the team were unlucky to concede an early goal. The team started to improve their game but so did the opposition. Whilst St Edward’s were in possession of the ball Emily Shea ran forwards and tripped falling awkwardly. A visit to the local hospital led to Emily being diagnosed with a broken wrist. Emily is well and able to par-take in the remaining tour activities. The team re grouped at half time despite being two nil down, they regained focus finding pace and direction to create chances against their opponents. This positive play enabled them to attack the D. Accurate passing was seen from Katie Paul, Amy Jones, Amy Lawrence, Mimi Pincott and Lottie Cooper preventing the opposition from gaining possession. Katie Paul and Amy Lawrence worked together passing at pace. The ball was crossed to Mimi Pincott who comfortably slotted the ball home. High spirits led a surge forward by Amy Jones, linking with Vicki Harris who placed the ball accurately to waiting forward Amy Lawrence, once again in the right place at the right time. The team worked hard to achieve the draw and was a result of positive play and hard work.

1^st X1 v Bryanston

The first 5 minutes of the game suggested that this was going to be an exhilarating, end to end game of hockey. Due to the horrendous weather, gale force winds and horizontal rain which was strong enough to lift and move the goal posts, the game was sadly abandoned after only 10 minutes for safety reasons, much to the disappointment of the team members. St Edward’s like to believe that they would have been successful over such a prestigious school.

Having been defeated by the elements it was important for the party to regroup slightly. Fortunately the violent storm abated but the chaos it had created was further compounded by 70,000 eager football spectators, the majority not unusually claiming to be genuine supporters, clamouring to see “their heroes” Manchester United. As a result the passage back to our hotel became complicated by roadblocks and hordes of people. Having packed the coach, while dodging the occasional heavy shower, the group left the hustle and bustle of Cape Town for the more sedate university town of Stellenbosch.

Robben Island

Another early departure saw the group board the Ferry for the 45 minute transfer to Robben Island. Unfortunately the predicted storm front had arrived, we did not however appreciate until the bow of the small ferry breached the breakwater just how fierce it was and just how rough the sea was.

Initially the spray from the crashing waves was considered a giggle, this joviality soon disappeared when it was accompanied by the violent pitching and rolling of the ferry. Most took to the seats below deck, some huddled in the passageways while others decided up top was best as they worried about their ability to hold on to their breakfasts (unfortunately many did not). Eventually we entered calmer waters and awaited instructions to disembark before joining the fleet of busses for our tour.

The island tour had two parts, the first being a guided tour of the prison. On entering the prison we were greeted by a former inmate who, speaking passionately about his treatment gave a moving and frank account of the realities of life as a prisoner. He began by explaining about the demeaning clothing the prisoners had to wear, the strict visiting rules and the censorship applied to the various ethnic groups and the differing prisoner categories The tour continued with a visit to Mandela’s cell block and the gardens where he secretly stored his memoirs prior to them being discovered, when work began on a new wall that was built to increase the security for the political prisoners. Here we we all took the opportunity to pause and look into the cell occupied by Nelson Mandela for the majority of the 18 years he spent on the island.

We then gathered in a communal cell, the centre piece being a thin mattress and a blanket placed on the floor, which for many years’ inmates slept on. Gathered around our guide, imprisoned for “crimes” of sabotage, we listened intently as he spoke about the diet the differing ethnic groups endured and how despite all of the brutality and difficulties the inmates, initially hostile to each other, turned this establishment into “our own University” An education process, headed by the likes of Mandela that turned many previously illiterate men into graduates. At the conclusion of this tour we began a bus tour of parts of the island. Our new guide spoke eloquently about the history of the buildings and churches and the Limestone quarry where the former inmate Nelson Mandela and many of his co-prisoners worked daily for many years.

Unfortunately it was becoming increasingly difficult, due to the weather, to appreciate the island, its isolation and importantly its significance.

The tour concluded we re-joined the ferry, more in trepidation than anticipation for the journey back to Cape Town. The weather was better, the sea calmer and those who braved the decks had their perseverance rewarded with sightings of dolphin just off the side of the boat.

A somewhat bedraggled group then enjoyed the comfort of the Waterfront Mall for lunch and some retail therapy.

The impact of the visit to this poignant island was somewhat diminished by the weather but its significance will remain and be perhaps enjoyed fully if any revisit the fascinating isolated place

The Peninsular Tour - Cape of Good Hope & Cape Point

The Peninsular Tour

Another glorious day greeted the group as they set out from Bergvleit for a full day’s excursion to the very tip of Africa. Spirits were raised further when a telephone message from Mr Lewis informed us that Matt having seen both the doctor and a physiotherapist was well enough to be discharged and able to rejoin the tour.

The first port of call for the day was just on the outskirts of Simons Town, a naval seaport south of Cape Town. Here the group left the coach for the short walk to Boulders Beach a very popular tourist destination where from observation platforms people can stand above the beach and watch at close range African penguin; nesting, tending for the young or even showing them how to swim out past the tumbling surf.

 The whole group stood totally transfixed by these charming birds for quite some time before reluctantly leaving, via a series of walkways, above a variety of areas where penguins just happily rummaged amongst the low level shrubs.

A short stop for a first serious attempt at bartering with local traders for various artefacts followed before re-boarding the coach for the 45 minutes drive to the Cape of Good Hope. As we left Boulders we had our first encounter with the Baboons unfortunately considered to be a little bit of a problem by the people who live in this area of outstanding natural beauty. The afor mentioned large male climbed up a garden wall turned over the wheelie bin and rummaged through its contents, unconcerned by the homeowner.

The Cape of Good hope the South Westerly point of the African continent has so long been consider by those of a maritime persuasion as a significant landmark as it indicated to all who navigated the dangerous waters that they were over half way  on their return journey home from their travels from the East. A group photograph followed by a clamber on the rocks to watch the rolling seas crashing continually on this rocky promontory was a wonderful way for each member of the group to collect their thoughts and perhaps consider the wonderful place they were visiting. 

Shortly after getting on to the coach en-route to Cape Point the coach paused to watch 3 ostrich who were calmly wandering seemingly unperturbed by the side of the road. A few scattered buildings and an impressive lighthouse appeared to be precariously perched on the cliff top ahead and those who made the effort were rewarded with spectacular views of the Atlantic and Indian oceans and a dramatic coastline as the mountains dropped sharply into the beautiful assure waters below. An intrepid few also took the opportunity to walk even further to the final observation terrace which was seemingly precariously perched at the end of this spectacular point.

A rather tired and surprisingly subdued bunch were however instantly perked up by the sight of a large family group of gibbons sat on the roadside preening their young. The whole group appeared oblivious to the large our vehicle and the faces of fascinated people peering at them through the windows.

A slight deviation for a quick dip in the sea brought our peninsular tour to a close. The group chilled with some cool sounds for the short journey through the suburbs of  Cape Town to our new hotel opposite sighted below Table Mountain close to the impressive Cape Town Stadium.  

Update on Matt Woods

We are glad to inform followers that Matt was collected from the hospital this morning and he has been reunited with the rest of the party, and is in good spirits.

Cape Town Waterfront and match day v Bergvleit

Cape Town Waterfront and match day v Bergvleit

We awoke to a beautiful sunny Cape Town winters morning and collected the students from Bergvleit. Mr Watson & Mr Rees did not accompany the other staff as they were tasked with the job of organising a morning activity for 51. Little did we know that on Nelson Mandela’s 94^th birthday we would spend the morning cruising around Table Bay on a catamaran.

 As we left the harbour we were met by humpback whale and a small pod of dolphins. As we cruised the bay taking in the the breath-taking  backdrop of Table Mountain and Cape Town Stadium (built on the waterfront for the 2010 football  World Cup) we continued to spot various pods of dolphin and whale. A swim stop was very popular and many fine swallow dives were displayed by intrepid group members eager to leave the side of the boat to test the blue but cool ocean. Having dried off in the burning sunshine we returned to the waterfront singing happy birthday to Madiba as we entered the harbour after an incredible 2 hours.

The group then spent a while eating and shopping in the V&A Waterfront prior to a drive to the Muizenberg beach, some chose to swim, some paddle while other were content to people watch and admire the numerous surfers testing their skills in  the perfectly formed waves. The group then re-boarded the coach for the short journey to Bergvleit for the evening fixtures.

Bergvliet Fixture

1^st XI match

Won 4-0 (Cannon 2, Pincott, Harris)

This match was played at a high tempo as the team enjoyed a little more time and space and the 4 month old bright blue astroturf which had recently been renovated from the grass which many schools here play on. Due to this, we were able to get our first goal in the first 3 minutes from Georgie Cannon, which was done with huge skill within the ‘D’ with a cracking reverse sweep. This type of pitch truly was the kind of surface in which Georgie was all over. Although Players like Georgie, Amy Jones and Mimi Pincott showed huge skill upfront, we were, as a team, able to push forward powerfully with accurate passing from the backs and midfield.  This showed the opposition that we were going to be a threat throughout the game as we were barely releasing any sweat due to the amount of passing that was going on. Georgie Cannon again was dangerous in the ‘D’ which resulted in a strong strike getting our second goal of the match. Just before half time, the strong work from upfront by Amy Jones and Mimi Pincott again resulted in strong passing between Amy Jones and Mimi Pincott resulting in an easy third goal.

After half time the opposition upped their game slightly meaning it was hard for us to push through. But despite the oppositions strong centre defence, Alice Shea and Vicki Harris used the left wing to fly in another goal. The teams structure and play meant that the game was shared and meant that players were able to play with pure skill and use the space on both sides of the pitch. The team played very well and used each other accurately and passes were quick resulting in a win of 4-0.

Player of the match: Emily Pascoe

Report written by: Mimi Pincott and Emily Pascoe

2^nd XI match

Won 4-0 (Lawrence 3, Pincott)

Report written by: Molly Creed and Amy Lawrence

St Edward’s started the game slowly but soon picked up the pace with some fantastic passing from Ellie Hunt. Mimi Pincott and Amy Lawrence linked well in the forward line and Lawrence scored within the first 4 minutes. This lifted the team’s spirits and improved their confidence. This resulted in another goal from a short corner, converted by Pincott. Strong passing between Hannah Smith and Emily Shea ensured that the ball was transferred across the pitch accurately. This gave St Edward’s the advantage in the early stages of the match. The third goal came from another short corner which went into the goal in the top left corner, a second goal for Lawrence.

With a three goal lead the team had sharpened up their passes by using the width and spreading the play which opened upfurther opportunities for the team. St Edward’s defence, made up of Captain Sarah Reid, Clare Royle, Molly Creed, Hannah Smith and Imogen Parnham made any attack from the opposition very difficult. Creed in particularly was strong in her tackles and few attacks got past her.

The second half started strong with an early goal which secured Lawrence’s hat-trick. Good skills from Lottie Cooper in right midfield, linking well with Creed made quick, sharp passes into Katie Paul in the centre of midfield. Amy Jones made it hard for the opposition to gain possession.

The game was undoubtedly the best the team has played as a unit in South Africa so far and has left the team in very high spirits for their final game on tour.

Player of the match: Molly Creed

Rugby St Edward’s Development XV v Bergvleit U16/17

As the sun set and the floodlights came on the game kicked off after a lengthy preparation for the St Edward’s XV; a side composed of the youngest and least experience players. The game was unfortunately held up after 5 minutes of frenetic rugby in which St Edward’s exerted almost continual pressure as they tried to impose their game strategy on their eager opponents. In an unfortunate incident at a line-out on the opposition 10 metre line Matt Woods landed awkwardly injuring his ankle in the process. A lengthy period followed as Matt was expertly treated by the pitch side medics and the staff. When the game restarted the St Edward’s side settled their nerves in the best possible way with a well worked try by Oli Pickering converted by Tom Hage.

The remainder of this report is best left to players: Max Roberts and Sam Hartley

The game recommenced with St Edward’s determined to continue to play high tempo game,designed to pressure the opposition in both attack and defence. After good work at a midfield breakdown and quick hands through back line saw Tom Hage thread a pinpoint miss pass to Oli Pickering out on the wing who finished clinically after stepping inside the last defender to score.

St Edward’s kept the pressure on Bergvleit through the forwards and after a series of powerful pick and drives they were rewarded with a try through Alex Rook. The St Edward’s back line continued to cut the opposition apart and after a jinking run from Tom Hage St Edward’s furthered their lead when he scored under the posts to give St Edward’s a comfortable 17 – 0 half time lead.

The second half carried in very much the same vein as the St Edward’s players grew in confidence, but perhaps lost a little of their shape failing to play the patterns practiced. It did however see many players putting in some very strong runs which continually saw them make significant inroads into the opposition’s territory. Particularly evident in this period was Sam Hartley and from one of his runs which was ended by a dangerous tackle which saw the host reduced to 14 men for 10 minutes. This advantage was however short lived as the Head Boy turned bad boy in the eyes of the referee and was similarly dispatched to the “bin”.

St Edward’s were unable to adjust to this loss and immediately conceded sloppy try. As the game developed St Edward’s re-established the composure and control demonstrated in the first half and their hard work was rewarded with a thriller of a try from George Burton which was converted by Tom Hage.

The game ended soon after with St Edward’s prevailing 24 – 7

Man of the match: Max Roberts

Although the squad were delighted to have won the squads mood was slightly subdued as they showed their concern for Matt Woods. 

Johannesburg - Cape town Transfer

Johannesburg – CapeTtown

We left Johannesburg after an early breakfast and boarded the flight to Cape Town after an interesting checking in process. Having arrived in glorious sunshine we wasted no time going straight to the top of Table Mountain, considered to be one of the 7 natural wonders of the world.

 After some quality time taking in the breath taking scenery we made our decent, via the rotating cable car to our waiting coach, which we boarded for the short journey to Bergvleit. We were met by Mr Les Ryan the sports administrator and our hosts. Having been given instructions for the action packed day to follow the students dispersed to experience the local hospitality.

Day 8 Transfer to Cape Town

Just to inform all followers that the flight to Cape Town was very straight forward. Having landed on time the group transferred to the cable car station to enjoy the spectacular views from the summit of Table Mountain.
A full account with photographs will follow tomorrow.

Day 7 Hockey Matches V St Mary's

DAY 7

Another bright but cold South African morning dawned, promising much. The morning start was a little more leisurely than has been the norm as only the girls were due to play in the  mid-afternoon . After breakfast the troops were subjected to a thorough room check by: RIT. “Room Inspection Team” – Assessment criteria: Smell, folding of clothes, general cleanliness: Best boys room went to; George Gilder & Jack Merron, with George Trevaskis getting highly commended for his folding skills. The Best girsl room went to; Mimi Pincott & Georgia Dyer having bribed the inspectors with a cup of tea.  The inspection concluded the girls undertook some gentle exercise, playing Frisbee and rounders, while the boys were put through their paces with a full training session under the guidance of messrs: Rees, Lewis & Watson. At midday the group enjoyed another light lunch before departing for the hockey games against St Mary’s.

If playing fixtures against one of the top School sides in the country was not a difficult enough task, doing so with a number of the cohort suffering slightly from a variety of ailments, shocking mid-winter temperatures of 21 centigrade just added to the challenge. As we drove into the impressive School campus it was evident that this establishment took their sport very seriously, with hockey firmly established at the top of its agenda.

In a slight change the 1^st X1 played first and it was evident from the very beginning that it was going to be a difficult task against a squad containing 3 international, 6 provincial and 4 district players. A squad coached by the former coach to the South African Ladies National side.

Perhaps the performance is best summarised by the players themselves:

A thorough warm up led by Captain Alice Shea loosened our stiff bodies and prepared us mentally, ensuring that we were fully aroused and pumped to take on the famous St Mary’s side. Little did we know what we were about to encounter. As the game swung into motion we began to realise the sheer strength of the well drilled and skilful St Mary’s. By the end of the first half we had unfortunately conceded 2 goals. We had an inspirational talk led by the two amazing, beautiful, intellectual, pretty much perfect leaders, sent the teams spirits soaring for the 2^nd half. Some excellent teamwork against the ferocious opposition was necessary to stem the tide of constant attacks. Heroic defence by the Jones sisters and the outstanding bravery of goalkeeper Georgia Dyer repelled numerous short corners, at the other end quick passing by Georgie Cannon, Emily Pascoe and Alice Shea saw the ball enter the opposition D several times unfortunately to no avail, despite valiant efforts from Vicki Harris, Ellie Hunt and Mimi Pincott. Having conceded another 3 goals a dramatic turn of events occurred. From an improvised short corner Alice Shea smashed the ball at the goal missing by millimetres, St Edward’s heads hung momentarily with disappointment as they thought our single goal opportunity was over. Suddenly out of the corner of our eyes we spotted the pink and white flash of the one and only Vickie Harris’s stick superbly angling the ball towards the goal. The next thing we heard was the satisfying crunch of the ball hitting the backboard. Tears of joy came to everyone’s eyes, players and spectators alike, with cheers of congratulations from the boys team as we ran past the stand to our positions. 

Despite the spectacular goal, fitness levels , altitude and the supreme standard of the St Mary’s team saw us concede another 2  well worked goals. At this point the authors would like to highlight once again the phenomenal goalkeeping skills and bravery of Georgia Dyer who saved numerous shots, one of which was flying straight to her head. Whilst the score did not go our way, we were and are very proud of the excellent all-round efforts of all members of the team and we are already looking forward to our next two matches in Cape Town.

By: Amy Jones & Ellie Hunt.

Score St Mary’s 7 – St Edward’s 1 (Goal scorer – Vicki Harris)

Player of the match: Georgia Dyer.  

Immediately after with the setting sun casting shadows over the pitch the 2^nd X1 began their encounter with St Mary’s U16 A team. Although the pace was less frenetic the endeavour and commitment was never the less evident. The following account was written by Emily Shea and Lottie Cooper:

Unfortunately the 2^nd X1 did not get off to a very strong start against another very strong St Mary’s side. The opposition playing with skill and pace throughout scored four goals having created many more chances but thanks to Millie Tupper in goal the team spirit remained high.  (2 very early goals, were a setback but these were then followed by 75% of the game being a fairly even contest). Our forwards Amy Lawrence & Mimi Pincott played very skilfully posting up to receive the attacking ball. The midfield also put up a very good fight in their attempts to deliver the through balls to the forwards and to deny the opposition time and space. In defence the excellent Clare Royle worked nonstop throughout the game. Mention must also be made of, the superb enthusiasm that Katie Paul added to the team effort with her strong passes and her outstanding skills. Imogen Parnham was valiant and persistent in her tackling .The Captain Sarah Reid kept our spirits up and ensured that we battled to the end. Overall the team gave a fantastic performance and should be proud of the match, but were unfortunate to meet such strong opponents who were clearly firing on all cylinders as they approach the peak of their playing programme.

Account written by: Emily Shea & Lottie Cooper

Player of the match: Millie Tupper

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Following a pleasant post match reception the girls re-joined the boys who had returned earlier to the hotel to enjoy a couple of hours of dancing , pool and darts before an early morning departure  to begin the second part of our African adventure in the beautiful city of Cape Town, situated at the Southern tip of the African continent.

Sunday Day 6

This morning dawned cold and cloudy but perhaps that was apt for a visit to the Apartheid Museum.

As adults it is easy to suggest that a visit to such a place is a necessary part of a child’s education, but it is only after having spoken to those involved do you really appreciate how important it is that experiences of this nature are undertaken and that they should be a part of the total touring experience.

So perhaps it is far more important that followers read an account written by members of the group; too young to be aware of the incidents that led to the recent development of this young democratic country.

Today’s visit to the Johannesburg Apartheid Museum was an educational and poignant view of the recent history of South Africa. It was shocking to see, the level of segregation that existed in mid 20^th century South Africa. The barbarity of the ruling white minority was made very clear by written accounts and film footage of their cruel actions and discriminatory laws, highlighting a shocking part of recent history; that many our age had failed to realise. As we walked around the Nelson Mandela exhibition, we could truly grasp how powerful this man was, as both an activist in his earlier life pushing for the rights of his oppressed people, and as a political leader trying to unite a split nation. With this in mind, we moved onto the second section of the museum which graphically displayed  the apartheid period, passing from decade to decade, the exhibits  included artefacts of a troubled nation, photos, videos and eye witness accounts of the horrifying scenes of the last 50 years.

There were many exhibits which will have a lasting impression on us: A film clip of police brutality during the 80s showing the lack of mercy from the Afrikaans police, the room which not only listed the names of political prisoners murdered in their jail cells but the fact that their passing was symbolised by the hanging of nooses from the ceiling, one for each of them. 

 Also the blatant racism symbolised by the signs as you enter the museum, demonstrated the segregation of European whites from the native Africans and those of Non- European ethnicity was a very obvious and  harsh reminder of the severity of the division.

We thought we would end on this quote from a prisoner that knew he faced death, it’s harrowing message seemed appropriate to echo the feelings of the visit

‘My blood will nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of freedom’

Rory Stoddart and Alex Fesemeyer

There is no doubt that this was a worthwhile educational visit but at its conclusion it was important to not dwell on some of the shocking images which had a profound effect on so many, teacher and student alike so a visit to another mall (graded @ 7.5 out of 10) followed by a Brai, Karaoke and a wonderful guitar session by Dan Lewis was a great way to end another good day.  

Saturday Day 5

Day 5 Saturday

After their first lie-in since leaving home, some members of the group enjoyed taking full advantage of the huge selection of breakfast choices freely available in the restaurant, while others were a little more selective.

Following a short meeting sat around the very cold swimming pool the girls were put through their paces in a fitness circuit designed by; Mrs Dunn while the boys took part in a technical training session revisiting important aspects of the game plan following feedback and a review of the game against CBC Boksburg.

 Many of the group were strong minded enough to brave the cold water of the less than inviting swimming pool, while others decided that discretion being the better part of valour retired to their rooms for a shower. A light alfresco lunch was then taken prior to a “House” rounders competition. Newman & Fisher sharing the trophy.

At 4.30 in preparation for the visit to the Apartheid Museum on Sunday the group gathered in a conference room to listen to a powerpoint presentation prepared and delivered by 3 choice students (the 3 Head Prefects – outgoing Head Boy George Pearson and new Head Boy & Girl – Ben Harvey and Hannah Smith) 

At 5.00 the group boarded the coach for the 45 minute journey to Loftus Versfeld  in Pretoria, the famous home of the Blue Bulls for their “Super 15” encounter with the Lions.

The whole occasion in this world famous sporting venue was highly entertaining; there was quality rugby with some massive hits (particularly the one under the posts on Morne Steyn, South Africa’s seasoned fly half - when he failed to pass with a clear 2 man overlap) and some real quality running from the Lions Anthonie Volmink. There were other distractions to the main event, throughout, with dancing girls (The Vodacom Blue Babes), the kicking tee being brought to the on by a remote controlled blue truck and numerous musical interludes whenever there was a score or a stoppage in play.

At the end of the game the St Edward’s tour party “invaded the field” along with hundreds of others and proceeded not only to collect autographs from some of the Bulls players; but to cheer on very young boys practicing their goal kicking, the “pitch invasion” finished with a group photograph under the posts.

 

  

A great day to be on tour!