The Rise of the Jade Brigade: Stellenberg High’s Giant-Killing Season
Schoolboy rugby in South Africa is currently witnessing a seismic shift. Hoërskool Stellenberg, known as the “Jade Brigade,” has transitioned from a persistent underdog to a genuine powerhouse, dismantling some of the most storied programs in the country. Through a series of stunning upsets, Stellenberg is rewriting the hierarchy of Western Cape rugby.
Dethroning the Powerhouses
Stellenberg’s 2026 campaign has been defined by a “giant-killing spree.” The team has secured a trio of high-profile victories against traditional rugby titans, proving that their success is no fluke. The Jade Brigade first signaled their intent with famous wins over Paarl Gimnasium (20-19) and Grey College (26-21).
The momentum culminated in a thrilling encounter against Paul Roos Gymnasium. Entering the match, Paul Roos—the “Maroon Machine”—boasted an unbeaten record for the season, including victories over Affies and Hoërskool Monument. Despite trailing 10-0 at the break, Stellenberg produced a dominant second-half performance to secure a 20-10 comeback victory in Cape Town.
Key Architects of the Evolution
The evolution of Stellenberg rugby is anchored by elite talent and clinical execution. Two SA u18 A players have been central to this transformation: lock Juvan Burden and flyhalf Ethan van Biljon. Their leadership and skill have allowed the Jade Brigade to compete with and defeat teams that historically dominated the landscape.
The victory over Paul Roos highlighted the team’s depth and ability to strike from multiple positions. The comeback was fueled by tries from:
- Ralton Rhode (Right Wing)
- Juvan Burden (Lock)
- Janu Venter (Tighthead Prop)
- A crucial penalty goal from Ethan van Biljon
Comparison: A Changing Tide
The contrast between the current season and previous encounters illustrates the scale of Stellenberg’s growth. In their meeting last year in Stellenbosch, Paul Roos secured a dominant 34-5 win, where an interception attempt by Tiaan Basson shifted the momentum entirely. In 2026, the dynamic has flipped, with Stellenberg now dictating the pace and closing out games against the elite.
- Elite Scalps: Defeated Paarl Gim, Grey College and Paul Roos Gymnasium.
- Resilience: Overcame a 10-0 halftime deficit to beat Paul Roos 20-10.
- Star Power: Led by SA u18 A representatives Juvan Burden and Ethan van Biljon.
- Trend: Transitioned from underdogs to a dominant force in the 2026 schoolboy season.
What’s Next for Stellenberg?
As the 2026 season progresses, Stellenberg has effectively “ripped off its underdog collar.” By defeating the Maroon Machine and other traditional powerhouses, the Jade Brigade has established itself as a new force to be reckoned with. The rugby community now looks forward to seeing if this momentum can be sustained throughout the remainder of the year, potentially cementing Stellenberg’s place among the top rugby schools in South Africa.