Moria’s historic journey to rugby glory

Comeback for the ages
Annemarie du Toit
Annemarie du Toit

For the first time in their history, Moria Private School lifted the Namibia Secondary Schools Rugby U/19 Super League trophy, stunning the giants of Namibian schoolboy rugby and carving their name into the record books.

The road to glory was anything but easy. Moria entered the season determined to prove that they were more than just contenders - they were champions in the making. Match by match, they built momentum, sweeping aside opponents with clinical precision and a spirit of unity that carried them all the way to the final.

Their dominance was clear in the lead-up: a resounding 64–3 victory over De Duinesig showcased the attacking flair and defensive steel that made them the team to beat. But few could have predicted what was to come on the grandest stage of all.

The final against Windhoek High School (WHS) looked, at first, like a familiar tale.

WHS, one of the most decorated rugby schools in Namibia, surged to a 26–12 lead at half-time.

Many thought history would repeat itself, but Moria had other plans and what followed was nothing short of remarkable.

With the clock ticking down, Moria’s forwards dug deep, their backs found space, and three late tries turned the tide.

When the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read: Moria 55 – WHS 40 — a comeback for the ages.

Moria captain Franko Engelbrecht captured the emotion of the moment: “I could see in my teammates’ eyes how much it meant to them, and I think the next team can definitely take inspiration from us.”

For the players, it was more than a victory. It was proof that belief, discipline, and brotherhood could topple even the biggest names in school rugby.

For the community of the North, this victory symbolised something far greater: a school stepping onto the national stage with pride and purpose.

This triumph marks a turning point. Moria Private School are no longer underdogs - they are champions.

Their victory will inspire generations to come, reminding every Namibian school that with hard work, courage, and heart, even the impossible is within reach.