A BIT OF BACKGROUND
The FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International is in its second year after a highly successful inaugural competition in 2008. It is already a highlight on the rugby-mad South African’s sporting calendar.
This inter-university rugby competition sees eight of the country’s top universities go head-to-head to take home the title (and a substantial cash reward). The participating universities include:
- University of Stellenbosch (Maties)
- University of Cape Town (Ikeys)
- University of Pretoria (Tuks)
- North West University (NWU-Pukke)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Free State (Shimlas)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
The eight teams each host at least three home matches, followed by a semi-final and a final that determines the National University Champion. FNB Varsity Cup is managed by an executive committee chaired by former Springbok captain, Francois Pienaar.
All the action happens on a Monday night. A traditionally quiet night across SA, the FNB Varsity Cup changes all that with a display of rugby at its entertaining best. It’s a celebration of the sport and all that it stands for – braai, beer and friendly rivalry, not to mention the non-stop action and young talent. For two months, no self-respecting rugby fan will be singing ‘I don’t like Mondays!)
The FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International is based on the very popular concept of Monday Night College Football in the United States. If you’re not at a game, viewers can catch a minimum of two matches to be screened every Monday night on SuperSport for the duration of the competition.
A passion for rugby and the growth and development of our young players is the big driver behind this competition. Viva SA Rugby Viva!
The full Varsity Cup Board:
Chairman and Finances: Jurie Roux (Maties)
Sponsorships: Francois Pienaar (FNB)
Legal: Marius Janse van Rensburg (Shimlas)
Marketing and Logistics: Mervyn Taylor (Pukke)
Co-opted member: Derrik Mathew (Steinhoff)
Saru: Mervin Green
USSA: Sakkie Booysen
CEO: Duitser Bosman (Varsity Cup)