Matome ‘Dux’ Manyama relishes the chance to shine for NWU Eagles

With just one round-robin round left of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup competition, defending champions FNB NWU Eagles look set to host a home semi-final courtesy of their position at the top of the log.  

The Potchefstroom-based team have only lost one match, against FNB UFS Shimlas in Bloemfontein (26-35). Their remaining fixture on Monday 8 April is against FNB UCT Ikeys at home.  

Varsity Cup spent some time with prop Matome 'Dux' Manyama, and he opened up about his rugby journey, highlighting the need for patience as he waited for his opportunity to wear the Eagles’ jersey. 

That finally came when he made his debut in the opening round against FNB Maties. The Polokwane-born player says it was an emotional moment for him. 

“It was surreal for me playing against Maties at the Danie Craven Stadium (in Stellenbosch). I experienced a range of emotions, filled with joy. It was a significant match against Maties, one of the best teams in the competition, but it all boils down to knowing your job and executing it well. My teammates also supported me."  

Manyama didn’t get any game time last year and he admits it wasn’t easy. 

"Being on the side line was difficult, let alone not making the bench, so it was tough not playing. Each day I’m told my time will come, and that was tough, but I just told myself that I need to stay patient and sooner or later, things will happen."  

The Eagles forward also praised the role that Matimu 'Ganji' Manganyi has played in his career.  

"One of the people that played a role in my rugby career so far is Matimu Manganyi. He used to study here (at NWU) but he is coaching at Maties now. He is someone I look up to, and he helps me a lot. I also draw inspiration from professional players like Ox Nché, Ellis Genge and Andrew Potter." 

by Lesiba Dikhoba