Garsfontein coach: Wildeklawer will be a 'Test match' environment
EXCLUSIVE: The 2026 season has been one to savour for Garsfontein thus far after picking up some big scalps on their way to becoming a force within South Africa’s schoolboy rugby landscape.
Much was expected from Garsfontein heading into the new season after they retained the Noordvaal Cup for a third year running last year.
While their dominance in the Noordvaal region was undeniable, the Garsies knew they would need to raise their game and test themselves against some of the country’s top contenders.
They began the season with a 26-29 loss against Jeppe at home, but that defeat sparked them back to life.
At the North-South Tournament, Garsfontein picked up two massive wins. Firstly, they came from behind to beat giant slayers, Stellenberg 21-20 in a thrilling affair, before upsetting the number one-ranked side from last year, Paarl Boys High 31-28.
Last weekend, coach Sylvester Booysen’s troops defeated rivals, Affies 38-34 in a gripping encounter that went down to the wire.
“I think what has helped us this season is that we kept some of our players from last year,” Booysen told Rugby365.
“We had a couple of Grade 11s on our side last year, so the style of play we implemented has just filtered through the players.
“There hasn’t been a total overhaul; we haven’t changed much, but the players have just bought into the system.”
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What stands out most about how the Bere have played this season is their belief and relentless, never-say-die attitude.
Against Stellenberg, they trailed at halftime, but a spirited second-half display coupled with some dazzling rugby sealed them the dramatic one-point win.
“For us, it’s all about belief, hard work and a never-say attitude,” Booysen added.
“If any team was behind against Stellenberg in that game, they probably would’ve accepted defeat, but we knew we could come back.
“Against Affies, the late tackle by Dian van Aswegen says it all. That’s not something you can coach; it’s belief and playing for the team and community.”
Only a week after beating the Wit Bulle, Garsfontein will be met with two massive tests at the Wildeklawer Tournament in Kimberly against Paul Roos Gymnasium and Northwood.
Paul Roos defeated Grey High 28-15 last weekend, but has lost to Stellenberg this season, so the Garsies know they are beatable.
Coach Booysen says both matches will be like test matches.
“On the day, it’s going to be big, the stage will be big, and that will make it an equal game for both teams.
“We measure ourselves on defence, but I think the team that makes fewer mistakes and concedes fewer penalties will win those games.
“It’s going to be like a Test match environment, and anyone can beat anyone on their day.
“If you don’t pitch up, you’re going to get a 50, and if you pitch up, you can win a game many people didn’t expect you to win.”
The clash between Garsfontein and Paul Roos will kick off on Friday at 19:00 before they tackle Northwood on Monday at 14.00 (SAST).
