With the 2025 edition of the FNB Varsity Shield kicking off this Friday 14 February, and the FNB Varsity Cup competition set to ignite the action on Monday 17 February, we once again turn to our fans that rock and ask who do you think will be crowned champions this year?! Reigning FNB Varsity Cup title holders, the UFS Shimlas, will be determined to defend their crown after an unforgettable 2024 campaign that saw them edge past the Ikey Tigers in a thrilling final. Can they go back-to-back, or will a new champion emerge to take the top spot? Meanwhile, with FNB Tuks earning promotion to the Cup competition, the FNB Varsity Shield trophy is up for grabs. The battle will be fierce, with the relegated FNB UWC aiming for a swift return to the top tier while newcomers Sol Plaatje University will be looking to make a statement in their debut season. Who do you think will go all the way in 2025? Let us know! FNB Varsity Cup FIXTURES HERE . FNB Varsity Shield FIXTURES HERE .

Having been relegated from the FNB Varsity Cup to the Varsity Shield last season, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) will be fighting to get back into the the top tier of South African University rugby with a young squad this time around. The new recruits will be taking the field and drawing on the experience from verteran campaigners like Conwill Conradie, Hlomla Ncana and Romauld Nsombamanya who have all tasted success with the Bellville-based side in previous years.   “Our pre-season was slower than the past but I still think we had a good pre-season,” UWC head coach Paul Treu said.   “We had a hit-out against Boland in Wellington. We had a game against CUT, we played SAFCOL last week and UCT this past Monday.   “In terms of that, we definitely had good match preparation but with our young squad, I don’t know what to expect.”   “Any team in the shield would like to qualify [for the Varsity Cup], our goal is the same.”   UWC and Treu have reinforced their backroom staff with capped Springbok Jamba Ulengo as well as former University of Stellenbosch star ​​Jesse Johnson to help coach the side.   Treu pointed out three potential young stars to look out for this season. They include centre Frank Hitimana, lock/flank hybrid Jean Visser and speedy winger Leachin Adams.   UWC’s opening match on Friday at home against Walter Sisulu University with Treu uncertain what to expect from the team from the Eastern Cape.   “The first one is pretty much set on what we want to achieve as a team and as we progress throughout the competition,” he said.   “We’re going to start focusing on the other teams and what they do and analysing and reviewing them.” Provisional squad (subject to change): Keno Alexander, Leigh Braaf, Leachim Adams, Keith Syster, Hlomla Ncana, Juma Amissi, J'que Huckins, Bevan Simons, Frank Hitimana, Braydon Booysen, Aaron Swarts, Elkan Willemse, Conwill Conradie, Fran-Neeco Kowan Baron, Matthew Stephens, Leighton Damons, Danston Cloete, Dylan Fillies, Brodie Goddard, Bilaal Moerat, Romauld Nsombamanya, Nicholas Chipanje, Michail Kasfikis, Danyal Cornelious, Melumzi Mandongana, Logan Fortuin, Alexander-Jaco Van Der Merwe, Keanuh Michaels, Franco Ceaser, Marciano Forbes, Keagan Pietersen, Daniel Damons, Vuyo Kirabira, Hlonela Qelile, and Skyle February.   Fixtures:   HERE Tickets:   HERE

At the end of a thrilling 2024 season, the FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield once again saw dramatic changes in the promotion and relegation battle, proving how fierce university rugby in South Africa has become. FNB Tuks dominated the Varsity Shield competition, finishing at the top of the log and securing automatic promotion. Their consistent performances and commanding wins made their return back into the Cup a certainty. Meanwhile, 2023 Shield winners, FNB UWC, struggled to string together enough wins and were automatically relegated back down. It was FNB CUT who finished 7th on the Cup log and found themselves in a precarious position, facing the threat of relegation. Their fate rested on a high-stakes promotion/relegation clash against FNB Madibaz, who finished second on the Varsity Shield log at the end of the group stages. However, the Ixias delivered a statement performance, crushing Madibaz 64-16 to retain their spot in the Varsity Cup for another season. The drama extended to the Shield competition as well, where FNB SPU pulled off a nail-biting victory over last-placed TUT, securing their place in the 2025 Varsity Shield tournament. With the 2025 season set to bring fresh challenges, the newly promoted teams will be eager to prove themselves, while others will be fighting to hold onto their places. 2025 Promotion/Relegation At the end of the 2025 season, the team ending bottom of the FNB Varsity Cup log at the end of the group stages will automatically be relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield, while the team finishing top of the Varsity Shield log at the end of the group stages will automatically be promoted to the Varsity Cup. The team that finishes 7th on the Varsity Cup log will play in a promotion/relegation match against the team that finishes 2nd on the Varsity Shield log. The team that finishes bottom of the Varsity Shield log will play off against the top USSA team to decide who plays in the 2026 tournament. 2025 fixtures and logs HERE .

After disappointing seasons in recent years, FNB WSU is set to enter the 2025 Varsity Shield with the goal of securing their maiden title. WSU has come close in the past and were eliminated in the semifinals by FNB UP-Tuks in 2024. Their quest for silverware will kick off against FNB UWC on Friday, February 14, in Cape Town. Coach Thembani Mkokeli believes his team is in a strong position ahead of the season opener. “Our preparations have been good. We are in a good space, both mentally and physically,” he said. “Every year is different, but I believe our team has what it takes to go all the way. We just need to take it game by game and not rush things.” Like many teams, WSU has had to rebuild after losing key players. Former captain Awonke Sondishe is among those who have moved on, signing with the Border Bulldogs. Despite the departures, Mkokeli is optimistic about the young talent coming up through the ranks. “We have promising players who are making waves in the provincial side. “Keep an eye on Yandisa Mahobe and Pernell Mandes, who were part of the team last year. In the backs, Lukhangele Tshayi and Thembani Folo are also players to watch; they will step up this season.” WSU supporters are eager to see the Shield come to East London after years of disappointment. Mkokeli acknowledges the high expectations from the fans and promises to deliver when they take the field at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane. “We always aim to win, but our main focus is to play good rugby. The WSU fans know the style of rugby we want to showcase. We want to represent them honourably and produce strong performances.” Provisional squad (subject to change) Yandisa Mahobe, Usiphile Mayekiso, Buhlebenkosi Kedama, Lwandile Nathi Majozi, Inganathi Mhlakaza, Mihlali Nohoyeka, Mangaliso Zixesha, Sibulele Manyube, Sokhana Pampila, Siseko Mani, Khanya Mbakaza, Athenkosi January, Qhayiya Makalima, Azasakhe Puwani, Sipho Hobosch, Khanya Solani, Mattwin Christoffels, Sandisiwe Mkwayimba, Pernell Mandes, Hlomla Payi, Sinethemba Buhlungu, Lizole Hebe, Asenam Mniki, Thembani Folo, Yolisa Kasi, Isiphe Mbini, Liyabona Kasibe, Asivili Ngcawe, Axola Mtalana, Glen-Lihn Tromp, Lilitha Nxanga, Elam Kuse, Luvo Zindela, Abongile Vellem, Siyathemba Ncapayi, Sinenhtlahla Kesa, Nande Lucas, Sikho Gaushe, Asisipho Jim, Bulelani Nondlwana, Ahlule Zokoza, Beon Hartnick, Lukhangele Tshayi.   Fixtures: HERE By: Avuyile Sawula

UFH Blues coach Chase Morrison believes his team’s adequate preparation will set them up for a successful 2025 FNB Varsity Shield campaign. After missing out on a semifinal spot last season, the Blues will enter the new campaign with vigour and intentions to go all the way. The 2022 champions will kick off their campaign against FNB CPUT in Cape Town on Friday, 14 February, and Morrison says preparations for the tournament went smoothly. “Going into this season, we wanted better preparation, and I think we have achieved that. “We started in November, and we have played three warm-up games. I’m happy with the players and the work they’ve put in,”said Morrison. The key focus for the Blues in 2025 is to be consistent and outwork their opponents. “A big focus for us is to ensure our conditioning is at a competitive level so that we don’t only start games well, but we finish them. There are also certain aspects in our attack that we have worked closely on.” The Blues will miss key figures this season including former captain, Kamvelihle Fatyela. Morrison, however, has ample faith in the youngsters coming through. “We have lost four crucial players after the age limit changed,” he said. “This season, our captain will be Samkele Nzima and other players to watch are Sinalo Jivana, and Kamvelihle Gcweka at lock. “Bunono Jamani played behind Fatyela for two seasons. It’s his time to put the number two jersey on and make it his own. We are excited to see what they can deliver.” When asked what UFH students can expect from the team, Morrison said: “They can expect a team that works hard, never gives up and fights. The group is ambitious and wants to achieve a lot.” Provisional squad (subject to change) Samkele Nzima ©, Elihle Mtshemla, Mawande Sotewu, Mbasa Babele, Bantu Simani, Bunono Jamani, Inga Vellem, Liyema Tonjeni, Kamvelihle Gcweka, Liyema Hlitane, Siyo Mocksini, Anda Simanga, Mpho Ramahala, Yanga Gazi, Michael Mangava, Sambesa Matyolo, Sinalo Jivani, Kamva Jengqa, Lunathi Mthukwana, Zukhanye Dom, Cwenga Makwati, Turshaan Hare, Onke Ntontela, Salusiwe Gxekwa, Lakheni Majali, Bulumko Mfundisi, Takudzwa Rushiza, Okuhle Pangua, Lutho Mene, Sibusiso Javu, Ukho Nomsatha, Liyema Ngoyi, Bulelani Thanki, Cyril Mphatsoe, Nkesani Felepu, Mziyabulela Bathu, Unathi Mayekiso, Siya Sakhela.   Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Avuyile Sawula

After a tough 2024 Varsity Shield campaign that saw FNB CPUT narrowly escape relegation, the team is determined to turn the page and rebuild. CPUT team Manager, Bongani Ntshobodwana, known as Ta Bongs, emphasised the importance of a strong start: “Our preseason has been intense and purposeful. We’ve analysed our past performances and identified key areas for improvement. The goal is to be formidable contenders from the outset”. Captain Kieran Naidoo, who is leading the Blue Wave for the second year, shares this vision, highlighting the team’s commitment to excellence. “Our preseason has been challenging but has driven growth within our squad. While last season had its critics, we have rebuilt a team that combines experience with competitiveness and a strong sense of unity” he asserts.  Players like Oyintando Maseti, celebrated for their agility and strategic play and Iwaan Bloys, a stalwart in defense, are expected to make significant contributions.  The team also welcomed new talent, including Clyde Frieslaar, whose impressive performance during preseason has garnered attention. “Integrating new players brings fresh energy and perspectives which are invaluable as we aim for a successful season,” notes Ta Bongs.  The coaching staff has developed a comprehensive strategy focusing on dynamic offense and defence. As explained by Kieran “Our approach is to be in the best possible position. As a team, we focus on the present. Consistently having good days leads to strong weeks, ultimately contributing to a successful season. We are optimistic and excited about the challenges ahead”.   In addition to optimism and determination, Kieran states that the team’s mood is one of the strong sense of pride and excitement to get stuck in and compete at their best. Kieran adds that after facing adversity on and off the field, there is a palpable sense of unity and purpose among the players. Everyone is committed to the collective goal of elevating CPUT’s standing in the Varsity Shield.   As the team approaches the start of the tournament, Coach Alastair Theys expressed his pride in the hard work and dedication shown throughout the off-season and preseason.  “I’m extremely proud of the hard work and dedication that our team has shown in the lead-up. We’ve prepared to the best of our ability, refining our skills, strategies, and mental toughness. Each player has put in the effort, and our coaching staff has ensured that every aspect of the game is covered. We are ready to face any challenge that comes our way. It’s now about executing what we’ve trained for and playing as a unit. We are excited and confident in our preparations, and we’re looking forward to the competition ahead to give CPUT a better performance than last year.”   As they prepare for their opening match against FNB UFH on the 14th of February, the team is focused on executing their game plan and setting a positive tone for the season. “Control the controllables, we will work hard in any situation to put the team on the right foot, FNB UFH is never a walk in the park. They are talented and physical, but we are prepared to execute our game plan and put the team in the best possible position”, Kieran states.   With a blend of experienced leadership, emerging talent and a strategic approach, CPUT is poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 FNB Varsity Shield campaign.  Provisional squad (subject to change) Kieran Delaan Naidoo, Preveen Rahul Padayachiey, Lindisipho Lihle Kula, Oyintando Honour Maseti, Jayson January, Denley Krid Adams, Timothy Matthew Shortles, Ntsako Ashley Mhlanga, Iwaan Bloys, Nkanyiso Nyamende, Noah Matthew Pekeur, Gerald Junior Ghambi, Keanan Benjamin Odwa Rolosi, Nkosephayo Sbusiso Ngema, Philasande Ngcobo, Mbuso Maseko, Keewan Titus, Simphiwe Gift Thabede, Samukelisiwe Sandile Madonsela, Lathitha Sange Ratsibe, Bongani Shane Gumbi, Andrew John Williams, Jacquin Farrol Jacobus, Jesse-Owen Denation, Keene Munnick, Keano Gerswin Cookson, Siphesihle Ntandoyemvelo Zwane, Ruaan Cheslin Mabasa, Clyde Nicyle Frieslaar, Ashton Maloy, Abongile Kude Golela, Nqaba Mveliso Nkonyeni, Kyle Ahrendse, Evan Aldrich Plaatjies, Ndinani Nodlayiya. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

The FNB Varsity Cup has long been recognized as one of South Africa’s premier breeding grounds for rugby talent, providing student athletes with a platform to showcase their skills and transition into the professional ranks. Each year, the tournament serves as a launchpad for future stars, bridging the gap between university rugby and the elite level of the sport. As we approach the start of the 2025 season, we take a look at some of the standout players from 2024 whose efforts were recognised and rewarded by securing professional contracts and taking their careers to the next level. Prince Nkabinde: FNB UJ to Cheetahs Position: Wing/Centre Accolade: Nominated for FNB Backline Player of the Tournament The Orange Army big winger bulldozed his way over the line to score some memorable tries during the season and made his debut for the Cheetahs against the Bulls in July. Zander Reynders: FNB UP-Tuks to the Springbok Sevens Position: Centre Accolade: Won the FNB Varsity Shield 20245 tournament with Tuks The 191cm centre was a big part of the undefeated Tuks team that won the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield and earned promotion to the Cup competition. After the tournament he earned selection for the Springbok Sevens ‘A’ side and then made his Blitzbok debut at the Cape Town Sevens which they won. Ethan Wentzel: FNB UFS-Shimlas to Cheetahs Position: Flyhalf Accolade: Won the FNB Varsity Cup 2024 title with UFS Throughout the season, the Shimlas pivot commanded the midfield and was instrumental in them being crowned champions. His clutch penalty in extra time of the final to win the game was the highlight. Made his debut for the Cheetahs in May last year. Ethan Burger: FNB UP-Tuks to Exeter Chiefs Position: Prop Accolade: The Tuks captain lead the Stripe Generation to their domination of the 2024 Varsity Shield which they won unbeaten. The Stripe Generation co-captain was instrumental in leading Tuks to win the FNB Varsity Shield 2024 title unbeaten. "Getting the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing club is a dream come true. Exeter Chiefs are one of the best teams in England with an amazing track record... I’m extremely excited to play in the Premiership, it’s one of the most prestigious competitions in the Northern Hemisphere and the world...I look forward to making the most of it," Burger shared with exeterchiefs.co.uk .” Jonathan Roche: FNB UCT to Stormers Position: Centre Accolade: Scored in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup final for the Ikeys The Ikeys centre was devasting in midfield for the Ikeys and his line-breaks and offloads resulted in several tries. He scored in the final and was drafted into the Western Province team in July where he scored a hattrick in their season opener against the Griffons. His efforts for WP didn’t go unnoticed and he made his Stormers debut in Jan this year. Likhona Finca: FNB UJ to the Lions and Junior Boks Position: Wing Accolade: Was voted as the Suzuki Rookie of the Year after the 2024 season Likhona made his debut for UJ and it didn’t take long for him to get noticed after scoring several sensational tries. After the season the Lions player was selected to represent the Junior Springboks in the World Rugby U20 Championship in Cape Town. Zinedine Robinson: FNB NWU Eagles to Griquas Position: Flyhalf/Wing Accolade: Won the FNB Varsity Cup 2023 title with NWU and was the top points scorer for the Eagles in 2024 The veteran Eagles pivot has been a key part of their success over the past years most notably helping them to win it in 2023. He was signed by the Griquas just after the 2024  season ended. Zane Bester: FNB UFS-Shimlas to Griquas Position: Centre Accolade: Won the FNB Varsity Cup 2024 title with UFS The Shimlas centre terrorized defenders during the 2024 season and scored several brilliant tries to help the Shimlas to lifting the trophy. Here’s one of them. Honourable mentions: Kelvin Kanenugo: FNB Wits to Falcons Pierre Raymond Uys, Jandré Nel, Jooste Nel, Michael Annies, Neels Volschenk, Asanda Kunene and Francisco Dos Reis: FNB UFS to Cheetahs Rowan Malgas: FNB UJ to Springbok Sevens ‘A’ side Duran Koevort: FNB UCT to Springbok Sevens ‘A’ side Phillip Ape Adu: FNB UJ to Falcons RF Schoeman and Heinko Poleman: FNB UJ to Lions Cilliers Viljoen: FNB Varsity College to Aviron Bayonnais in France Uli Walker, Singele Mkhize and Siso France:  FNB UKZN to Sharks juniors We can’t wait to see which stars emerge during the 2025 season and who will take it to the next level.

FNB Varsity Cup 2025 is set to be bigger, bolder, and louder than ever with the introduction of its newest and most dynamic personality—Enzokuhle. With his striking pink mane, fearless energy, and undeniable rockstar attitude, Enzo is the official mascot for both FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield, bringing his infectious energy to every game and every crowd.  Born from the spirit of passion and perseverance, Enzokuhle—whose name means "to do great things" in the isiXhosa language—embodies everything FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield stand for. Always in the thick of the action, whether it's leading a stadium-wide air guitar solo or hyping up the crowd with his signature dance moves, Enzo is here to shake things up. He believes in pushing boundaries, taking on challenges, and bringing people together through the sheer love of the game.  To celebrate his arrival, FNB Varsity Cup is launching Mascot Madness, a nationwide takeover designed to get fans buzzing ahead of the tournament. On Monday, 3rd February, university mascots across the country will be stepping up for bold, attention-grabbing challenges in their local communities, calling on the students and supporters to get behind their teams in a way that’s never been done before. From Cape Town to Johannesburg, expect to see mascots making headlines and taking over cities as South Africa gears up for an exciting season of university rugby.  FNB Varsity Cup has always been about more than just what happens on the field. It’s about energy, spirit, and the moments that bring fans together. With Enzo leading the charge and Mascot Madness setting the tone, 2025 promises to be a season like no other. Get ready to rock!

South Africa’s most entertaining and competitive student rugby tournaments are fast approaching with the FNB Varsity Cup kicking-off on 17 February, but before we take things to the next level in 2025 we reflect on the thrilling 2024 season that set a new benchmark for university rugby. The season ended in a nail-biting final where FNB UFS edged out the FNB UCT Ikey Tigers with a dramatic 45-42 victory to claim the championship title. The Shimlas snatched the win at full-time thanks to a clutch Ethan Wentzel penalty. Here’s a look back at last year’s highlights. The FNB NWU Eagles got the defence of their title off to a winning start in the first round of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup competition with a hard-fought away victory over Maties. FNB UCT Ikeys beat FNB UFS Shimlas in Bloemfontein while FNB Wits thrashed newly promoted FNB UWC in Cape Town.   Midway through the group stages it was the UCT Ikey Tigers and that man Ntokozo Makhaza who put their hands up as serious contenders. Makhaza would go on to break the all time record for top points scorer in the tournament’s history. In the semi's Zane Bester broke Maties hearts at the Danie Craven to send the Shimlas into the final. The final went down to the wire with the UFS and Ikeys level at full time, but in the 3rd minute of added time it was Ethan Wentzel's penalty that gave the University of the Free State the title. The 2024 season delivered unforgettable moments of rugby magic, with incredible tries that combined outstanding teamwork and remarkable individual skill and you can see the best one here in the Steers Tries of the Season highlights. In the FNB Varsity Cup Women’s tournament the UFH Baby Blues capped off an impressive season by dethroning defending champions FNB Maties 37-31 denying the Maroon Machine back-to-back trophies.    FNB UCT bagged two FNB Players of the Tournament awards while UJ flyer Likhona Finca was named as the Suzuki Rookie of the Year. If last year’s tournaments are anything to go by then expect the 2025 season to take it up a notch with next level rugby, entertainment and university pride. Can the Shimlas be crowned back-to-back champions or will another team challenge for glory and the trophy? Find out on 17 February! Fixtures HERE . Tickets coming soon.

The countdown is on for South Africa’s most exciting and competitive student rugby tournaments! The country’s top universities are gearing up to deliver next-level rugby action as the best student players go head-to-head in front of passionate fans at packed stadiums nationwide. The excitement kicks off with the Varsity Shield competition on Friday, 14 February, followed by the FNB Varsity Cup on Monday, 17 February. With the Springboks' back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs still fresh in our minds, the spotlight now shifts to the next generation of potential stars. More than 50 Varsity Cup and Shield players have gone on to wear the green and gold, proving this platform is a critical stepping stone in South African rugby. FNB Varsity Cup founder and CEO, Francois Pienaar, remains as enthusiastic as ever about the tournament's impact: "2025 Varsity Cup is going to the Next Level. We’re stepping up on all fronts, creating great moments and inspiring the future stars of South African rugby. This year, we celebrate the FNB Varsity Cup and Shield as the perfect springboard for talent, bridging university and professional rugby, while shining a brighter spotlight on the rapid growth of women’s rugby.   The tournaments have become synonymous with producing world-class talent, but it’s more than a rugby competition; it’s where student athletes grow, thrive, and dream big. I can't wait to see what this season has in store!”   Get ready for next-level rugby, next-level talent, and next-level sportainment where champions are made, and the future of South African rugby is forged!"   This year brings some exciting updates: Friday Night Lights: Most Varsity Shield matches will now take place on Fridays, creating a weekend buzz that fans can look forward to. Mascot Mania: Team mascots are back, bringing vibrant energy to every game. Expect dance-offs, crowd interactions, and plenty of team spirit! Women’s Rugby Growth: Following the success of last year’s FNB Varsity Cup Women’s competition, 2025 will see the top 6 women’s teams compete for glory with several matches being broadcast for the first time ever.     For the defending FNB Varsity Cup champions, the FNB UFS Shimlas, the season starts with high expectations after their dramatic 2024 final win over the FNB UCT Ikey’s. Shimlas head coach Andre Tredoux is keeping the team focused: “Winning the trophy in 2024 was very rewarding for the hard work and effort the team put into the campaign. The students celebrated well, with a successful team many players got opportunities to play professional rugby, we also had a high number of graduates.  2025 is a new challenge and we will stay true to our brand to play attractive running rugby.  The team has been preparing well and are excited to give everything in the upcoming campaign, we will play without fear and embrace the challenge.”   Meanwhile, FNB UP-Tuks, who dominated the Shield competition, are ready to return and make their mark once more in the premiere competition after winning back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022. When asked about the Stripe Generation’s approach to being promoted, head coach Dewey Swartbooi got straight to the point, making it clear that his team is ready to step up and compete with the best, focused on delivering a performance that speaks for itself. “We are happy to be back in the Varsity Cup competition and rolling with the big boys, we just want to give a good account of ourselves.“ The Shield competition will also see the addition of FNB Sol Plaatjes who replace FNB TUT after winning the promotion relegation play-off. The Kimberley-based unit is chomping at the bit to show why they should be taken seriously as a potential title contender and at the helm will be head coach Johnathan Francke who brings a wealth of experience to the table. “To be part of the FNB Varsity Shield is a great achievement for us, but more so a huge honor to put Kimberley on the map.  We've seen what it means for the town when the Suzuki Griquas perform, and we draw energy from the team to perform as well.  The team is well prepared for the season, and we are very much looking forward to the start of the tournament.”  says Francke.   With the best young talent on display, thrilling matches, and an electric atmosphere that only Varsity Rugby can offer, 2025 promises to be another unforgettable season of next level action. For all the latest news and fixtures click HERE . Tickets coming soon.

Scoring 15 tries to three, FNB UP-Tuks ran rampant and beat FNB Varsity College 95-21 in the final of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield in Pretoria to add yet another trophy to their cabinet. The new champions finished the season unbeaten and will return to the FNB Varsity Cup next year. Playing at home, with the clear objective of a spotless campaign and to be crowned the champions, the Stripe Generation opened the scoring through captain Ethan Burger. The rest of the first half was a one-sided affair with more tries by Kamohelo Tlome, Cayno February, Henry Till and Marco Venter. Five minutes before the break, the home team were leading 38-0. Varsity College finally registered points on the board on the stroke of half-time through flyhalf Frederick Marx who dotted down and converted his own try, the score 38-7 at the break. Tuks came back and continued their demolishing act on their opponents who didn’t have any answers to the onslaught. Bayanda Ngubane was the first to cross the try line with Ambesa Zenzile shortly following. Varsity College then pulled one back through Benjamin Field while Michael Horak also managed a five-pointer for his team. Then it was more of the same from the Stripe Generation with Kyle Cyster scoring a brace as well as tries by Ruan van Blommestein, Haydn Kemp, Jacobus Louw and Tharquinn Manuel. SCORERS FNB UP-Tuks 95 (38) – Tries: Ethan Burger, Kamohelo Tlome, Bayanda Ngubane (2), Cayno February (2), Henry Till, Marco Venter, Ambesa Zenzile, Kyle Cyster (2), Ruan van Blommestein, Haydn Kemp, Jacobus Louw, Tharquinn Manuel. Conversions: Jean-Pierre Wentzel (8), Walter Visser (2). FNB Varsity College 21 (7) - Tries: Frederick Marx, Benjamin Field, Michael Horak. Conversions: Frederick Marx (3). FNB Player That Rocks: Kyle Cyster (FNB UP-Tuks) TEAMS FNB UP-Tuks: Ethan Lance Burger, Henry Edwin Till, Dian Stephan Coetzee, Johannes Wilhelmus Mare, Roald Hattingh, Kamohelo Tlome, Cayno Douglas February, Marco Venter, Chad-Lee Valentine, Jean-Pierre Wentzel, Ambesa Zenzile, Kobus Janse Van Rensburg, Tharquinn Thane Manuel, Bayanda Sinele Ngubane, Kyle Edward Cyster. FNB Varsity College: Sonwabo Maseko, Jacques Marais, Siyabonga Dube, Robert Everson, Werner Coetzee, Juan Steyl, Enzo Van Niekerk, Mandisi Nkutha, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Nkazimulo Mzolo, Macmillian Mudara, Mbasa Nkonki, Sivuyisiwe Mpendu, Tshegofatso Ramaloko. FNB Overall Player That Rocks: Tharquinn Manuel (FNB UP-Tuks) FNB Back That Rocks: Tharquinn Manuel (FNB UP-Tuks) FNB Forward That Rocks: Ethan Burger (FNB UP-Tuks) Suzuki Rookie Of The Year: Jean-Pierre Wentzel (FNB UP-Tuks)

FNB UFH rocked Pretoria when they dethroned defending champions FNB Maties to be crowned the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup Women’s champions, beating the Maroon Machine 37-31 in a pulsating final at the Tuks Stadium. The Eastern Cape ladies put their hands up early in the match when Sivuyiseko Makhomazi broke the Maties’ defence with a sensational run from inside her own half and offloaded to Purity Ngogodo who easily flew over the try line. Maties were then reduced to 14 players when Zelmari Pretorius was sent to the sin bin for a high tackle. UFH dominated the period and were awarded a try when scrumhalf Sindisiwe Mbonja sneaked past her opponents. They proved relentless as they scored another point-of-origin try with a brilliant run from Etandwa Marawu. Maties started fighting back to remain in contention and were awarded a try when Elme Kruge powered over and converted her own try. UFH led 25-7 at half-time The team talk in the Maties dressing must have been intense as Johann Zeier’s troops returned from the break with a try, in the form of Kruger completing her brace. UFH however hit back with another try from Mbonja. It remained an intense clash with Maties scoring back-to-back tries through Ankia Viljeon and Zelmari Pretorius that reduced the deficit to just six points. Zintle Mkhokheli then dotted down for UFH before Kruger secured her hat-trick for Maties with five minutes to left play. It was however too late with UFH triumphantly claiming the 2024 title. SCORERS FNB UFH 37 (25) – Tries: Purity Ngogodo, Sindisiwe Mbonja (2), Etandwa Marawu, Zintle Mkhokeli. Conversions: Zanele Touto (4) FNB Maties 31 (7) - Tries: Elme Kruger (3), Ankia Viljoen, Zelmari Pretorius. Conversions: Elme Kruger (3) FNB Player That Rocks: Sindisiwe Mbonja (FNB UFH) TEAMS FNB UFH: Mila Wawa, Zintle Mkhokeli, Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Purity Siphosethu Ngogodo, Sinoyolo Best, Thokozani Sikela, Sivuyiseko Makhomazi, Lilitha Trustlord Ngwenze, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Okuhle Njemla, Etandwa Marawu, Inga Qogi, Siphesihle Hlangani, Adaoraa Philemina Somlenze, Zanele Touto. FNB Maties: Vunene Veron Miyambo, Lungelo Mpumelelo Hope Mvelase, Erin Chenowyth Bond, Sesethu Ntamnani, Danai Makanaka Makota, Stefney-Rose De Vries, Elizabeth Mari Slabbert, Ankia Viljoen, Taliyah Deanna Bussack, Elme Kruger, Kayleen Christelle Muggels, Ropafadzo Valerie Madyah, Zelmari Pretorius, Whitney Jolene Gordon, Emma Olivier.