For FNB TUT to finish in the top four of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition, it will require consistency in performance in their remaining fixtures.
Despite the task ahead, the Pretoria outfit has proven to be one of the deadly teams in counter-attacks by using their pacey wingers and the utility centre pairing of Mauritz Maritz and Josh Robinson. The boot of Maritz has also been coach Flash Malinga’s trusted weapon when it comes to penalties and territorial play.
Maritz enjoys the pressure that comes with competing in the Varsity Shield.
“It has been a journey of growth since playing the first game against Varsity College, playing with a young team and many of our players having their debuts.
“Unfortunately we lost that game (against Varsity College) but we came out stronger against WSU. Our game against CPUT was a hard pill to swallow as we only lost by two points which has made our journey to the final a bit harder, but our focus now is on the next game.”
Maritz is one of the key players for the Tshwane side having made his debut in 2019. He credits Varsity Shield for giving him a platform to showcase his talent.
Through his sterling performance and good game management, he managed to get the call to represent South Africa in Botswana last year for the USSA Sevens.
“Back in 2022, I was allowed to represent the Blue Bulls XV Club rotation team where we played at Loftus Versfeld. I had the privilege to represent my country in Botswana for the national USSA Sevens.
“Rugby has become my means of escape in the daily struggles of life, whenever I run to the field it feels like all my struggles disappear for 80 minutes. It helped and shaped my character to be who I am today.”
by Lehlogonolo Ditshego
