COLLEGE WELCOME
Basketball continues to be one of the fastest-growing sports in South Africa, and we are thrilled to host this prestigious tournament once again, welcoming many of the finest teams. This event offers our young men the opportunity to engage in healthy competition and showcase their talent. We are equally delighted to have our friends and families with us – whether you are cheering from the stands or following the action live on the SuperSport Schools app.
As youth sports grow increasingly competitive, it is essential to remember the values and traditions that guide us in coaching and playing sports at this important developmental stage. Basketball teaches us invaluable character-building lessons, including passion, commitment, hard work, perseverance, and the grace to handle both success and disappointment. We encourage all players to uphold the spirit of good sportsmanship and fair play throughout the tournament as they form new friendships, engage in spirited competition, and embrace healthy rivalry.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsors for their generous support, which makes tournaments of this calibre possible. We are proud to partner with brands that champion the diverse sporting codes of our nation.
Special thanks go to Mr Clemen Kock, MIC Basketball, for his unwavering dedication to organising a tournament of this high standard. Our appreciation also goes to the coaches and officials for their hard work and commitment. I would like to acknowledge our support staff for their meticulous preparation of the facilities and our magnificent grounds, as well as our medical team and security personnel who work tirelessly to ensure everyone’s safety.
The Parents’ Basketball Committee has once again played an integral role in bringing this event to life. I would like to express my gratitude to the Chairman of the Parents’ Basketball Committee, Mr Jameson Hlongwane, and his team of dedicated parents for their tremendous effort and support.
We wish all the players, coaches, managers, officials, and spectators – whether courtside or watching from afar – an exciting weekend of competitive basketball. May our boys build lasting friendships, sharpen their skills, and compete with passion and integrity.
Above all, enjoy every moment.
Mr Stuart West
Executive Headmaster
St John’s College
STANDARD BANK WELCOME
Standard Bank is honoured to announce our partnership with St John’s College for this year’s Basketball Festival. Our collaboration commenced 13 years ago with the School’s Rugby Festival, and we have consistently recognised the significant value these events provide to young individuals.
As a financial institution with operations in 20 African countries and six international centres, we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote youth development. We acknowledge that sports and education are pivotal in cultivating well-rounded individuals, fostering healthy competition, and encouraging teamwork for a prosperous future.
Basketball, in particular, imparts essential values crucial for fostering unity within our nation.
We perceive ourselves as more than merely a bank. Our objective is to unlock opportunities by establishing robust relationships that facilitate collective success.
This ethos of teamwork and cooperation is what we aspire to define our partnership with St John’s College, an institution renowned for its distinguished history of excellence.
We extend our best wishes to all the participating teams. By playing fairly, working diligently, and supporting one another, you will achieve success—not only for yourselves but also for your community and country.
Thank you.
Tshiamo Molanda
Head, Youth and Mass Market PPB SA, Standard Bank
PREP WELCOME
I am delighted to welcome all basketball enthusiasts to the U13 age-group category of the 2025 St John’s College Basketball Tournament, brought to you by Standard Bank.
We are excited to have you with us and look forward to an incredible display of talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
My best wishes to every participant—may this tournament be a memorable experience for you and your team. Give your best, play fair, and enjoy every moment on the court.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and parents for their invaluable support in making this tournament a resounding success. Your contributions are truly appreciated.
Enjoy the thrilling action and the spirit of schoolboy basketball!
Lux Vita Caritas
Mr Lester Lalla
Headmaster
St John’s Preparatory
MASTER-IN-CHARGE WELCOME
St John’s College is a school rich in tradition and history, with two decades of dedication to building basketball—a sport we truly love. We are thrilled to once again host our annual tournament, a highlight on our calendar that brings together talented teams from far and wide.
A heartfelt welcome to all the teams competing over the next four days on our six basketball courts, set against the stunning backdrop of our campus in the heart of Houghton. We hope you enjoy every moment of your time with us, both on and off the court.
This tournament is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of passion, perseverance, and sportsmanship. We count on each of you to play your part in creating an unforgettable experience for all through your unwavering support, dedication, and respect for the game.
A sincere thank you to the administrators who have worked tirelessly to get your teams here and to the coaches whose guidance and preparation have shaped the athletes ready to compete. We are grateful to all our parents for their invaluable support and encouragement, to the technical officials for their expertise and commitment, and most importantly, to the players who bring this event to life with their talent and heart—none of this would be possible without you on the court.
Here’s to another thrilling tournament filled with memorable moments and the spirit of camaraderie that makes basketball so special.
Mr Clemen Kock
Master-in-Charge of Basketball
St John’s College
