Vryheid High School Finishes Second Overall at 2026 PSG Finals
Vryheid High School learners gave it their all this past Saturday as Hoërskool Pionier hosted the 2026 PSG Finals in Vryheid. Facing fierce competition from some of KwaZulu-Natal’s top sporting schools, VHS teams displayed determination, skill, and sportsmanship — earning impressive results across hockey, netball, and rugby.
The finals featured eight participating schools:
- Vryheid High School
- Hoërskool Pionier (hosts)
- Empangeni High School
- Richards Bay High School
- Suid-Natal High School
- Riverwood College
- Kingsway High School
- Hillcrest High School
With talent packed into every fixture, each match demanded focus, resilience, and teamwork from start to finish.
Hockey Teams Deliver Outstanding Performances
VHS hockey teams showcased exceptional depth and talent throughout the day, securing two bronze medals and a hard-fought silver medal.
U14 Girls — Valuable Finals Experience
The U14 Girls battled bravely against a strong Hillcrest side, ultimately finishing in fourth place after a 5–1 defeat. Despite the result, the team gained invaluable experience at finals level that will stand them in good stead in seasons to come.
U16 Girls — Fighting Spirit on Show
The U16 Girls faced Suid-Natal in a closely contested encounter. Although they went down 2–0, their defensive structure and fighting spirit earned praise from spectators and coaches alike.
1st Team Girls — Bronze Medal
The First Team Girls produced an excellent performance against Suid-Natal, claiming a convincing 3–1 victory to secure the bronze medal. Their confident attacking play proved too much for their opponents.
2nd Team Girls — Bronze Medal
The Second Team Girls also brought home bronze after defeating Suid-Natal 1–0. A disciplined performance and a decisive goal ensured their place on the podium.
1st Team Boys — Silver Medal After Penalty Thriller
In one of the most exciting matches of the day, the First Team Boys drew 3–3 with Suid-Natal after full time. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout that went all the way to sudden death. Although VHS narrowly missed out on gold, their silver medal performance was a true testament to their character and talent.
Netball Teams Finish Third Overall
VHS netball teams also impressed throughout the competition, contributing valuable points towards the school’s overall standing. Results included:
- U14: VHS 12 – 10 Suid-Natal
- U15: VHS 17 – 3 Hillcrest
- U16: VHS 27 – 16 Hillcrest
- 2nd Team: VHS 12 – 10 Suid-Natal
- 1st Team: VHS 31 – 25 Suid-Natal
These excellent performances saw VHS finish third overall in the netball competition.
Rugby Excellence Recognised — PSG Rugby School of the Year 2026
A major highlight of the day was the recognition of Vryheid High School as the PSG Rugby School of the Year for 2026. This prestigious award reflects the strength of the school’s rugby programme across all age groups and celebrates the dedication of players, coaches, management, and supporters.
Consistent excellence from the U14 teams through to the First XV ensured that VHS stood out among all participating schools. A richly deserved honour.
Second Overall — Proudly Green and Gold
When all points across the various sporting codes were combined, Vryheid High School achieved an outstanding second-place overall finish at the 2026 PSG Finals.
Congratulations to every player, coach, manager, parent, and supporter who proudly represented the green and gold. Your commitment, passion, and sportsmanship continue to make VHS a force to be reckoned with.
EcoClub Plants for the Future
Learners Get Their Hands Dirty for a Greener Campus
While athletes were making their mark on the sports field, members of the VHS EcoClub were busy enhancing the school environment. On 29 May, EcoClub members rolled up their sleeves and planted Clivias in repurposed tyres, with the colourful future flower beds carefully arranged around a beautiful Japanese Hackberry tree (Celtis sinensis) situated between the C and D Blocks.
For many of the learners involved, it was their very first gardening experience. The activity offered a fun, hands-on opportunity to learn about sustainability, environmental responsibility, and teamwork — all while beautifying the school grounds.
The project demonstrated how creativity and recycling can work together to create something truly meaningful. The EcoClub looks forward to watching the Clivias flourish and add even more colour to the VHS campus in the months ahead.
Good Luck for the June Examinations
As the excitement of the PSG Finals and recent school activities settles, attention now turns to academics. Vryheid High School wishes all learners the very best as they begin their June examinations on 4 June 2026.
May the hard work, dedication, and preparation invested throughout the term be rewarded with success. Stay focused, manage your time wisely, and give your best effort in every paper. The entire VHS family is proud of you.
