With preparations having gone smoothly, FNB UFH Blues are all set for the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield season with several exciting young players joining the team.
Coach Sive Maxham says the addition of young players has been fantastic since it has allowed them to incorporate new strategies into their style of play.
“At first we thought it would be a challenge having new young players on the team, but with the experience of the old players, things are running smoothly and their collaboration is awesome, all in all, it was a positive challenge.”
Maxham also shared some thoughts on the new coaching staff.
“We are obviously a young coaching staff who have managed to introduce new things in our system which will bring back the culture of the Blues and achieve greater things than ever before.
“Based on what I've seen in practice, we expect nothing less than the playoffs. I commend the boys for their positive attitude, work ethic, and willingness to fight for each other at training. I believe that if we keep this positive attitude, great things will come our way this season.”
According to Maxham there are several players to look out for.
“Kamvelihle Fatyela (captain), Aphiwe Sidlayi (flyhalf), and Kamvelihle Gcweka (loose forward) have played a pivotal role in structuring our team and, of course, with the assistance from other players to fulfil their potential.
“We will go out there and fight as a collective and raise the university’s flag once again”.
UFH Blues will kick off their 2024 campaign at home against former FNB Varsity Cup champions FNB Tuks on Friday 23 February at the Davidson Stadium.
Provisional Squad (subject to change)
Aphiwe Sidloyi, Buhlebethu September, Bulela Magopeni, Bulelani Thanki, Bulumko Mfundisi, Bunono Jamani, Chulumanco Boya, Cinga Nqotyana, Cwenga Makwati, Cyril Mphatsoe, Hlumelo Banzi, Inga Vellem, Kamva Jengqa, Kamvelihle Fatyela, Kamvelihle Gcweka, Khonaye Mbakaza, Kwanele Hlobongwane, Lakheni Majali, Licebo Ngwentle, Lilitha Mdladlana, Liyema Tonjeni, Mbasa Babele, Mziyabulela Bathu, Okuhle Pangwa, Onke Ntontela, Ryan Maree, Salusiwe Gxekwa, Samkele Nzima, Sibusiso Javu, Sinalo Jivana, Sinawo Nofemele, Sithuthuzele Madondile, Siyabonga Koki, Tinasixolile Jokani, Wanga Mngculo.
by Thembela Tangana
