You cannot underestimate how important our bond with other human beings is. The world seems like such a large and intimidating place and, yet, it is amazing how small the world really is. In the left photo is a picture of Mr Odwa Xonxa looking up at Sean Grant
(when he was in grade 1 at Graeme College). Sean Grant is the son of Mr Brendan Grant (ex-Deputy Headmaster Graeme College), now Headmaster of South African College High School (SACS). Sean is sitting on the shoulders of Ciko Ngodwane who is currently doing an internship at Graeme and the u14A rugby coach.

Who would have foreseen that, this weekend at the 2023 Graeme College Rugby festival, Mr Xonxa would now be a full-time educator and rugby coach at Graeme College. Sean Grant would run onto Somerset Field for the SACS 1st Fifteen for his first cap and his father Mr Grant will be here to witness this. To further illustrate how interconnected we really are, Mr Grant coached the Graeme College 1st team and Mr Jonty van Der Meulen was his vice-captain. Mr Jonty van der Meulen is now the current Graeme College 1st Team coach.

When we consider this interconnectivity concept, it becomes clear that our interactions with others are not just fleeting moments but are actually part of a larger web of relationships that connect us all. Every person we meet, every conversation we have, every action we take has the potential to create a positive or negative impact on the world around us. The idea that there are no random acts and that we are all connected is a powerful one. It reminds us that our actions have consequences and that we are all part of a larger web of relationships. We cannot underestimate the importance of our bond with other human beings, and we must work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all.

Thanks to Ms Laura Nish for the drone footage of our well supported Rugby Festival.

A Graeme College rugby festival is not just about rugby. It becomes a powerful connectivity agent that brings people together from different backgrounds, cultures, and provinces. Whether it is through breaking down barriers, promoting teamwork and cooperation, promoting cultural exchange and understanding, or providing a platform for socialization and networking, a festival has the power to unite people in a shared passion and purpose. As such, it is an invaluable tool for promoting social cohesion and building stronger, more inclusive communities.

We have been eagerly awaiting this event, and I am sure that the next few days will be filled with exciting matches, great sportsmanship and unforgettable memories. There is much excitement mounting as we welcome so many different teams to our campus and our town. The Graeme College Rugby Festival has always been a highlight of our school’s calendar, and we are thrilled to be able to host the 24th edition in 2023. To the Makhanda community, thank you for taking the time to join us in experiencing yet another successful celebration of schoolboy sport. Much hard work has gone into the preparation of this festival and I must
commend the organizing committee and all staff who have made this event possible.

Your hard work and dedication has been instrumental in bringing this event to life, and we appreciate all that you have done.
There are far too many sponsors to mention, but they are listed in the programme – without them this event would not be possible. I would like to extend a special thanks to our title sponsor, GBS Mutual Bank, whose support and generosity has been invaluable. Without your, and the other sponsors’ contributions, this festival would not have been possible. As we begin this festival, let us remember the importance of fair play, respect for one another and, most importantly, having fun. Our hope is that everyone attending the 2023 Graeme College Rugby Festival walks away with good memories.