HOST VENUE
A Legacy of Excellence: Grey College
Grey College in Bloemfontein is not just a venue; it’s a cradle of history and achievement. Established in 1855, it stands as one of South Africa’s oldest schools, particularly north of the Orange River. Recognized for its high-quality education and exceptional student engagement, Grey College was ranked the number one high school in Africa by Africa Almanac in both 2003 and 2013. Its alumni network is robust, featuring significant contributions to various fields, notably including 46 Springboks, 35 Under 20 Internationals, and 121 Under 18 internationals. Such a prestigious background makes Grey College the perfect host for the NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge, symbolizing a bridge between historic excellence and future rugby legends.
A Visionary Hub: The Birthplace of the University of the Free State
The significance of Grey College extends beyond its educational achievements. In 1896, Marthinus Theunis Steyn, during his presidential inauguration speech, envisioned Bloemfontein as a center of higher learning, rooted in the foundation laid by Grey College. This vision materialized in 1904, with the establishment of the University of the Free State, initially part of Grey College. Hosting the NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge at such a foundational site for education and unity in South Africa reinforces the tournament’s commitment to fostering youth development and international camaraderie.
A Multilingual and Multicultural Setting
Grey College in Bloemfontein is not just a venue; it’s a cradle of history and achievement. Established in 1855, it stands as one of South Africa’s oldest schools, particularly north of the Orange River. Recognized for its high-quality education and exceptional student engagement, Grey College was ranked the number one high school in Africa by Africa Almanac in both 2003 and 2013. Its alumni network is robust, featuring significant contributions to various fields, notably including 46 Springboks, 35 Under 20 Internationals, and 121 Under 18 internationals. Such a prestigious background makes Grey College the perfect host for the NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge, symbolizing a bridge between historic excellence and future rugby legends.
A Legacy of Rugby Greats
Grey College’s contribution to international rugby is unparalleled, with the school having produced an impressive roster of players who have excelled on the global stage, including Francois Steyn, the du Plessis brothers (Jannie and Bismarck), Cobus Reinach, and many more. The school’s track record of nurturing rugby talent speaks volumes about the environment and coaching standards attendees of the NextGenXV Global Schools Challenge can expect. Hosting the tournament at Grey College is not just about leveraging its state-of-the-art facilities; it’s about connecting young athletes to a lineage of rugby excellence, inspiring them to reach new heights in their careers.
