There was visible excitement on everyone’s faces as students packed the buses to Christ’s College, 50 at a time. Last year’s defeat was fresh in the back of everyone’s minds and we were all extremely passionate about winning this year. Getting off the bus outside the school, you could hear the chorus of voices rising on the wind. This was only a small representation of what was to come.

We packed into the stands as the teams came out. As they began the haka, the tension shimmered in the air. Silence filled the grounds. Suddenly, there was an eruption of cheering from our side. The game began. The first half was thrilling. By half time, CBHS were just ahead with a two-point lead. The haka at half time was a sight to behold. Some seniors vaulted over the barriers to lead from the front. It expressed strength and provided great motivation for our players in the second half. The immense school spirit is shown, which flowed from the haka to the onlookers in the grandstand and the players alike spurred on the CBHS team to win the game, 32 – 16.

The annual college match is an important part of our relationship with Christ’s College and it is worth going to for the experience alone: it’s as much about the culture and traditions of both schools as it is about the sport. CBHS and College have been vying for ascendancy for the past 126 years. Over this period, CBHS has won 85 times to College’s 43. Traditional chants are chorused, ties are worn as headbands, and many Old Boys squeeze into their old blazers and come along to support their school. This year’s game will go down in history as a strong and proud victory for CBHS.