Queen’s College star selected for SA Schools rugby team

A Queen’s College Boys’ High School rugby player will wear the green and gold after being selected for the 2026 SA Schools U18 team.

Ncutu Kepe has been named in the national side following another impressive season, with the selection marking a major milestone in his rapidly rising rugby career.

Queen’s College congratulated Kepe on the achievement, describing it as a reward for his hard work, talent and dedication.

“Congratulations to Ncutu Kepe on his selection for the 2026 SA Schools U18 Team! An outstanding achievement and a testament to his hard work, talent and dedication!” the school said.

Kepe, who plays on the wing, is the only Border player selected for either the SA Schools or SA Schools “A” teams this year.

According to Border rugby Facebook administrator Maxwell Levine, Kepe’s rise through the ranks has been remarkable.

He progressed from Gasela High School to the Border Iqhawe U15 team in 2023 before joining Queen’s College and representing the Border Grant Khomo U16 side in 2024. In 2025, he earned selection for the Border U18 Craven Week team and the SA Schools “A” side.

This year, he again represented Border at Craven Week before earning promotion to the full SA Schools team.

Levine said Kepe’s journey should inspire young rugby players across the province, proving that dedication and hard work can open doors to the highest levels of school rugby.

Kepe and his SA Schools teammates will face the SA Schools “A” side on 16 July at Grey High School as players compete for places in the upcoming U18 international series.