Pretoria Boys High School will be hosting the annual Nomads Hockey Festival (28-30 March 2026), on its historic
campus as part of the school’s 125th anniversary celebrations. It will be three days of competitive schoolboy
hockey and community celebration with leading hockey schools from across South Africa.
The Nomads festival is a highlight on the national school hockey calendar, bringing together strong teams,
passionate supporters and the values that define school sport. Hosting the event during its milestone anniversary
year adds special significance for Pretoria Boys High, a school with a long and proud hockey tradition.
Headmaster Mr Greg Hassenkamp says the festival reflects the true purpose of school sport. “Our role as schools
is not to produce professional sportsmen, but to instil a love for the game, respect for opponents and officials, and
an understanding that while winning is important, it is not what matters most.”
Hockey has been part of the Pretoria Boys High sporting programme since 1950, and the school today fields up to
20 teams, supported by a world-class artificial pitch, The Hill Astro and two well-maintained grass fields that provide
an excellent environment for player development.
Director of Hockey, Mr Colin Fielding, says the festival continues to play an important role in strengthening the
sport’s culture. “The Nomads Hockey Festival brings together quality teams, strong competition and the true spirit
of schoolboy hockey. It is an opportunity not only to showcase great hockey, but also to build friendships and
sportsmanship between schools.”
This year’s festival will see the following schools competing:
Pretoria Boys High School | Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies) | Grey College | Grey High School | Hilton College |
Jeppe High School for Boys | Kearsney College | King Edward VII School | Maritzburg College | Selborne College |
St John’s College | Wynberg Boys’ High School
What's your hot take on this story?
The festival is hosted with the support of valued partners, including Title Sponsor FNB | VISA, Platinum Sponsors
University of Pretoria and Masslift Africa, and Gold Sponsors OMO, Seattle Coffee Company, MSC Cruises and
Nashua.
Pretoria Boys High extends sincere thanks to all sponsors and partners whose support helps make the festival
possible. Their involvement reflects a shared belief in the value of school sport and youth development. The school
also acknowledges its Silver Sponsors, whose support will be recognised throughout the festival.
Beyond the action on the field, the festival will offer a lively atmosphere with food stalls, sponsor activations and
hospitality areas, creating an enjoyable experience for families, Old Boys and supporters of all ages.
Over three days, players and visitors alike can expect high-quality hockey, warm hospitality and a celebration of
school sport, as Pretoria Boys High marks 125 years of excellence on and off the field.
