What happened between King David and Roedean? Inside details you should know

A scheduled school tennis match between King David High School and Roedean School has ignited serious concerns after King David players arrived at Roedean’s campus only to discover that their opponents were not coming—despite earlier assurances that the fixture would proceed.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, February 3, has since prompted urgent discussions between leadership from both schools, raising broader questions about transparency, accountability, and discrimination in school sport.

What Led to the Breakdown?

According to information shared with staff and parents, the chain of events began a day earlier, on Monday, February 2. At approximately 8:15 a.m., Roedean’s Head of School, Ms. Mogale, contacted Ms. Srage, the Head of School at King David High.

During that conversation, Ms. Mogale reportedly disclosed a troubling issue: a group of Roedean parents had objected to the tennis match taking place because the opposing team was from a Jewish school. Ms. Srage expressed deep distress at this revelation, a sentiment Ms. Mogale acknowledged, indicating she would address the matter and provide feedback.

Notably, during this initial discussion, there was no mention of any scheduling conflicts, academic workshops, or prior school commitments that would prevent the match from going ahead the following day.

Conflicting Messages and Mixed Signals

Shortly after that phone call—around 9:30 a.m.—King David received an email from Roedean’s Head of Sport stating that Roedean would forfeit the match due to academic commitments and concede the points. King David’s sports department acknowledged this email at 10:28 a.m.

However, the situation shifted again later that day. After midday, Ms. Mogale contacted Ms. Srage to say that the issue had been resolved and that the tennis match would, in fact, proceed as planned. Based on this assurance, King David prepared its team and travelled to Roedean’s premises on Tuesday.

What followed left players, staff, and parents stunned.

A Team Arrives—But No Match Awaits

When King David’s team arrived at Roedean, there were no players present to compete. Attempts to clarify the situation led to yet another explanation: Roedean’s players were said to be attending geography workshops—information that had not been disclosed in earlier communications or during discussions between the Heads of School.

The absence of prior notice and the shifting reasons for cancellation intensified frustration and concern among King David’s leadership.

Calls for Accountability and Resolution

In the aftermath, King David School met with Roedean representatives in what was described as a constructive and good-faith engagement. However, King David has made its position clear.

The school is seeking:

• A clear and unequivocal apology for what it describes as antisemitic actions that directly led to the cancellation of the match.

• A firm commitment that the two schools will continue to play against each other in the future.

King David’s leadership has emphasized that the issue extends beyond a single sports fixture. At stake, they argue, is the principle that school sport must remain inclusive, fair, and free from political or discriminatory pressures.

Looking Ahead

Despite the seriousness of the incident, King David has expressed hope that the matter can be resolved without further escalation. School leaders have reiterated their desire to restore the longstanding positive relationship between the two institutions—one built over decades—for the benefit of students and the integrity of school sport.

As discussions continue, many parents and educators are watching closely, seeing this episode as a test case for how schools respond when values of inclusion and respect are challenged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why was the tennis match between King David and Roedean canceled?

The match was ultimately canceled after Roedean did not arrive, despite earlier assurances that it would proceed. Conflicting explanations were given, including academic commitments and workshops.

Was antisemitism involved in the decision?

King David School states that concerns were raised about parents objecting to playing a Jewish school, which it describes as antisemitic and deeply distressing.

Did Roedean initially agree to play the match?

Yes. After initially indicating a forfeit, Roedean later assured King David that the issue had been resolved and that the match would go ahead.

What is King David asking for now?

King David is seeking an unequivocal apology and a commitment to future fixtures between the two schools.

Will the schools continue their relationship?

King David has expressed hope that the matter can be resolved and that the longstanding relationship between the schools can continue.