The Odgers Cup football match between our Servest Ground Staff XI and the Prep School Staff XI provided an afternoon filled with spirit and community on Friday, 1 August.
Held on Mitchell Field, the match saw the Prep School Staff XI claim a 4–1 victory in what has become an anticipated fixture on the St John's calendar.
More than just a game, the Odgers Cup honours Mr David Odgers, a beloved and long-serving Preparatory School staff member and former Director of Sport who served the school for 32 years before immigrating with his family in 2018. First played in 2019 and officially named the Odgers Cup in 2021, it began as a small gesture of appreciation to the ground staff and evolved into a highlight on the campus calendar. Thanks to the generosity of our parents, the event was capped off in true South African style, with a traditional braai where staff, players, and supporters come together to enjoy boerewors rolls and each other's company.
Mr Tony Johnson, Master in Charge of Football at the Prep and a driving force behind the event, reflected on the deeper meaning of the occasion. "The Odgers Cup has always been about the spirit of community and sharing our passion for sport at St John's. It's also a small way to say thank you to our support staff for the hours of service they give to St John's throughout the year."
This year, Standard Bank joined forces with St John's to sponsor new boots and socks for the Servest team. "As grounds staff, we enjoyed the opportunity to showcase our skills on the field, and we look forward to claiming the honours next year!" said Mr Elias Motshegwa, Servest Ground Staff XI team manager. "We sincerely appreciate the generous donation of boots from Standard Bank and thank everyone in our community who helped make the day so special."
Team captain, Mr Tabogo Motsusi, also shared his thoughts on playing in the Odgers Cup. "It gave us the chance to be on the field, not just to work but to play and have fun. We felt proud and valued being acknowledged this way."
Congratulations to the Prep School staff and the Servest team for their efforts on and off the field. Long may the spirit of the Odgers Cup live on.
Pictures: Hlengiwe Fakude and Jacqui Deeks
