Providing top-quality education to boys from Form 2 to Form 6, we draw on our long and proud tradition, as well as our dynamic and forward-thinking ethos.
Providing top-quality education to boys from Form 2 to Form 6, we draw on our long and proud tradition, as well as our dynamic and forward-thinking ethos.
Providing top-quality education to boys from Form 2 to Form 6, we draw on our long and proud tradition, as well as our dynamic and forward-thinking ethos.
Providing top-quality education to boys from Form 2 to Form 6, we draw on our long and proud tradition, as well as our dynamic and forward-thinking ethos.
Maritzburg College is proud to announce we will host the inaugural Jesse Kriel U11/U13 rugby festival from 17-19 April.
Jesse Kriel: A College Boy, A Champion, A Rugby Legend
From the hallowed turf of Goldstone’s to the world’s greatest rugby stages, Jesse Kriel’s journey is one of grit, glory, and commitment – a true embodiment of the Maritzburg College spirit.
Jesse Kriel (OC 2012) is a name that needs little introduction in South African rugby. As a proud product of Maritzburg College, Jesse’s natural athleticism, fierce determination, and deep rugby intelligence were evident from the moment he first pulled on the Red, Black and White jersey. It was here, within these walls and on these fields, that his foundation was laid – one built on tradition, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
After matriculating, Jesse rose rapidly through the rugby ranks. He made his professional debut for the Vodacom Bulls in 2014 and, within a year, earned his Springbok cap – making his test debut against Australia in 2015. His breakout performance came just weeks later, when he scored a spectacular solo try against the All Blacks in Johannesburg, instantly etching his name into Springbok folklore.
Since then, Jesse has been a consistent force in the Springbok backline. A member of both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup squads, Jesse helped South Africa secure back-to-back World Cup victories – a rare and historic achievement. His versatility as a centre and wing, his physicality, and his strategic understanding of the game have made him a critical asset to every team represented, including stints in Japan’s competitive Top League.
Beyond the accolades and achievements, Jesse remains a proud Old Boy of Maritzburg College. He often speaks of the role the school played in shaping his values, character, and discipline – qualities that have carried him to the pinnacle of the sport.
It is only fitting that the school’s beloved u11 and u13 rugby festival, formerly the Skonk Nicholson Junior Rugby Festival, now bears the name of Jesse Kriel. In honouring him, we not only celebrate a world-class athlete, but also inspire the next generation of rugby stars – young boys chasing their dreams, just as Jesse once did, right here at College.
Join us on campus for some excellent schoolboy rugby and plenty of #RedBlackWhite spirit!
Day 1 – 17 April 2025
Day 2 – 18 April