“Win the crowd, and you’ll win your freedom,”
This line from the iconic film Gladiator, is what inspired King Edward VII School‘s first team rugby coach Njabulo Zulu. The freedom, from one result in 2025, when on 28 March, Paarl Gim beat KES by 102 – 0.
Zulu was part of the coaching staff on that day, but when the season is looked at as a whole KES had a steady season, beating Rondebosch, Noordheuwel, Helpmekaar and Pretoria Boys High.
“I want us to make the community proud. If they see we fight till the end, that’s what matters,” he explained. “We beat some big names in the same season. We just need to perform more consistantly,” he explained.
The experienced mentor refuses to dwell on rankings and win percentages, preferring to focus on consistent performances that will reconnect the Johannesburg powerhouse with its passionate supporter base. “My heart is very much not about rankings,” Zulu declared. “Our season last year hurt us because I know we are better than that.”
The coach acknowledged that KES carries a significant target as one of Johannesburg’s premier English-medium schools. “Everybody wants to beat us. We need to match that desire,” he stated, adding that complacency has taught him valuable lessons. “At first XV level you can never underestimate anyone. Everybody is good.”
KES faces a challenging fixture list, with Zulu singling out several formidable opponents. “Affies will be difficult, as they always are. Westville will be tough – they have a good team, but I’m an old boy so it’s emotional for me too. Helpmekaar is also going to be tough.”
The coach expressed enthusiasm about festival opportunities, particularly hoping to secure an invitation to the prestigious Wildeklawer tournament. However, the crown jewel remains KES’s traditional derby, which celebrated its 100th match in 2025. “About 10,000 people come to watch, it’s one of the big ones,” Zulu said. “If I had to bring someone from overseas, I’d bring them to this game. It’s a great day for Johannesburg, so much pride from the community and old boys.”
KES will have a score to settle with Jeppe in 2026, as the Jeppe boys were able to beat their northern neigbours twice in 2025.
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