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The energy around Potchefstroom schools this past week has been electric — from netball courts to swimming pools, rugby fields to chess boards. The spotlight shone brightly on learners who put in the effort, and the results spoke volumes. Here’s a full look at the highs and happenings across our local schools:
Volkies: A Week of Big Wins and Bigger Moments 🏉🏊
Volkies truly had a week to remember. Starting in the pool, Francois Goosen earned national recognition at the SA Schools Swimming Championships, where he was crowned Victor Ludorum. With four gold and four silver medals in a mix of freestyle, butterfly and relay events, Francois secured his place as the top male school swimmer in the country. Mr PW made it even more memorable by symbolically handing over his blazer in recognition of this outstanding achievement.
Over at the Glenwood Rugby Festival, the 2nd team kicked off the action with a convincing 32-6 win over DF Malan. Meanwhile, the 1st XV rounded off their tour in style, beating Vryheid Landbou 40-3, scoring five tries and maintaining dominance from start to finish. The boys walked away from the festival unbeaten, setting a solid tone for the upcoming NWU series semi-finals.
Volkies also had plenty to celebrate in netball. At the Kloof Netball Festival, the U/16 girls put on an incredible performance, winning 11 out of 11 matches, including impressive wins over Waterkloof, Helpmekaar, and La Rochelle. The first team ended their campaign with a strong win against Eunice. The school also hosted a national coaching workshop with Protea coach Jenny van Dyk, where both local and provincial coaches, as well as learners, gained hands-on insight.
What’s Coming Up:
NWU series semi-finals
Important information regarding the NWU series semi-finals this coming weekend.Due to unforeseen circumstances, the rugby fixtures will not take place this weekend.
Gimmies: Talent Shines Across Fields and Boards 🚀🏀🏅
Gimmies made their mark across multiple sporting codes during the holiday break and into the new term. On the chess board, Ettienne van Meersbergen (U/14) finished 4th and Dewald Coetsee (U/18) placed 19th at the prestigious SA Closed Junior Chess Championships in Somerset West.
In triathlon, Minke Bester represented her school and country at the Africa Triathlon Championships, placing 5th in the 14–15 age group. Competing against athletes from across the continent, her performance was a true mark of endurance and mental toughness.
The hockey teams were also in action. The U/14A boys and girls travelled to Nelspruit where the girls placed 4th out of 12 schools, and the boys, after facing tough competition, finished 6th out of 10. Meanwhile, the U/15A, U/16A, and senior girls' teams toured Pietermaritzburg, and the U/16A girls and boys attended the NWU Hockey Clinic, gaining valuable skills and team-building experience.
What’s Coming Up:
Open Day 12 May
🗓️ Date: Monday, 12 May 2025
🏡 Hostel Tour: 16:30 – 17:30
🏫 School Programme: 17:30 – 20:15
Whether you're curious about academics, sport, culture, or hostel life — this is your chance to see it all firsthand, meet the staff, and get a taste of the Gimmie spirit reserve your spot by 28 April 2025.
Tokkies: Future Leaders and Fierce Competitors 🌟🏆
Tokkies celebrated the appointment of their Quarter 2 Head Leaders, with learners from across Grade 7 taking on leadership roles. This opportunity not only empowers these learners but also builds confidence and responsibility in the heart of the school community.
Their U/11 to U/13A netball teams are currently participating in the Menlo Tour in Pretoria. Despite rain delays, the girls have stayed focused, using every game as a chance to improve. With a mix of fun and fierce competition, this tour has offered great exposure and growth.
What’s Coming Up:
Chess players begin their Super 12 preparation against Saamtrek, getting in top form for upcoming rounds. ♟️
Hockey training also resumes with team practices getting underway as the season draws closer. 🏑
Potch Boys High: Hosting With Pride 🏏️
Potch Boys High proudly hosted the U/19 Sunbake Cricket Tournament in collaboration with North West Dragons. The event brought together top-level school cricket talent, and after a week of exciting matches, the Titans Cricket Hub emerged as champions. Thanks to NW Dragons for choosing Potch Boys as host - it was a successful event on and off the pitch.
Ferdies at Camp Discovery and SETH Learners Dive Into Genetics at NWU🏑 🔬
The Grade 11 SETH learners had a hands-on science experience this week when they visited the Zebrafish Laboratory at the North-West University (NWU).They learned that zebrafish share about 71% of their genetic structure with humans, making them key to research in health studies, pharmaceuticals, and even the effects of pollution.
According to learners, the research was eye-opening, and the visit gave them a real taste of science beyond the classroom.A big thank you to Prof. Wynand Malherbe for leading the session and making the complex feel clear and relevant. 🧪
While many were relaxing, the Ferdies first hockey team used the tail end of the school break for some training, bonding, and team-building at Camp Discovery.It was a solid mix of hard work and fun—exactly what a strong team needs before heading into a new season. The experience gave players the chance to build chemistry both on and off the field, setting the tone for what's to come in the 2025 hockey season. 💪
What’s Coming Up:
The North West Hockey League officially kicks off, setting the tone for an exciting season ahead.
Talent takes centre stage with auditions for Ferdies Got Talent 🎤 – we’re expecting big energy and hidden gems.
It’s hockey action as Ferdies take on Gimmies away from home. 🏑
Meanwhile, Potch plays host to the Skyfskiet Liga 2 (Target Shooting League) running until Saturday. 🎯
Learners are off to the mountains for the Bergfiets Gauteng & NW XCO Cup, hosted at Thaba Trails in JHB – a challenging and scenic event that runs until Sunday. 🚵♂️
Asjassies Pre-Primary: Small Feet, Big Energy! 🏃♂️🌟
Rounding things off on a joyful note, Asjassies Pre-Primary is prepping for their Athletics Day on 16 April. Families are invited to bring their loudest cheers and join in the fun as the tiny athletes take to the track. Expect cuteness, courage and loads of smiles!
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