FILE. Grey and Selborne Colleges have cancelled their highly anticipated inter-school derby due to an H1N1 outbreak at Grey College, prioritising the health and well-being of their communities. Picture: Etienne Rothbart.
Image: Etienne Rothbart
Grey College and Selborne College have cancelled this year’s highly anticipated inter-schools derby after an outbreak of H1N1 influenza, commonly known as swine flu, at the Bloemfontein-based school.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Grey College acting headmaster Ludwig Koekemoer confirmed that the decision had been made after an “unprecedented number” of learners fell ill, with several cases already diagnosed as H1N1.
“The health and well-being of our learners and staff remain a priority,” Koekemoer said, adding that the decision followed medical recommendations and a review of the available health data.
Grey College said the decision to cancel the tour to East London was not taken lightly, particularly given the short notice and the significance of the annual fixture.
Selborne College headmaster Andrew Dewar later confirmed the cancellation in a letter to parents and guardians, saying Grey College had been strongly advised by a medical doctor not to travel while the virus was affecting the school community.
Dewar said the recommendation was aimed at reducing the risk of spreading the virus during long-distance bus travel, hosting activities, and large gatherings associated with the derby.
“While this news is disappointing for players, supporters, and the wider school community, the health and wellbeing of all learners, staff, and visitors must remain our highest priority,” Dewar said.
Selborne also expressed support for Grey College’s handling of the situation and thanked parents, staff, coaches, and learners for their understanding.
The annual inter-schools clash between the two traditional rugby and sports powerhouses is one of the major fixtures on the South African school sports calendar, regularly attracting large crowds and intense rivalry.
Free State education spokesperson Sibusiso Majola had not replied to questions by the time of publication.