Springbok and Stormers scrumhalf Herschel Jantjies believes the FNB Varsity Shield competition played a huge role in him and Springbok wing Kurt-Lee Arendse becoming World Cup winners. The 27-year-old Jantjies, a World Cup winner in Japan in 2019, speaks fondly of his time playing for FNB UWC in the Varsity Shield competition and the role it played in his development as a player. “Yes, the Varsity Shield is a very exciting competition and was something that I really needed in my career at the time,” the Kylemore-born, Paul Roos Gymnasium old boy, recalls. “I was not getting a lot of game time at Western Province, and it was something I really needed at the time just to get that spark back in my game. “The way the game is structured nowadays with age group rugby, it is good for any young player to play Varsity Cup or Varsity Shield. It was one of my most enjoyable periods since I started playing rugby. The crowds and the whole excitement around the competition was really lekker for me.” Jantjies says he was particularly inspired by UWC coaches like the late Springbok wing Chester Williams and former Springbok scrumhalf Bolla Conradie. “Coach Bolla was especially great for me. I think it’s wonderful for any young player to have that kind of experience to guide you.” Jantjies represented WP at Craven Week, Under-16, Under-19 and Under-21 level. On the other hand, the 27-year-old Arendse, who won a World Cup medal with the Springboks in France in 2023, was only recognised whilst playing for UWC in the Varsity Shield competition, when the legendary Williams was also the coach. “Kurt-Lee and I have known each other since our school days. When we were Under-19, he was not at the WP Institute but was part of our group at Under-21 level. We went to UWC at the same time. “Kurt-Lee was always destined for greatness. The same things that Kurt-Lee produced thus far for the Boks, he did when he played Varsity Shield. The Varsity Shield gave him that opportunity. Eventually, he went on to play for the Springbok Sevens and is now with the Bulls and he is still playing brilliant rugby,” adds Jantjies. by Adnaand Mohammed

It is safe to say that the four semi-finalists for the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup have been determined with just one round remaining before the knockout phase. Defending champions FNB NWU Eagles have returned to the top of the log with FNB UCT Ikeys, FNB Maties and former log leaders FNB UFS Shimlas rounding out the top four. Here are some of the standout players from round 6. Aphelele Madaka (FNB NWU Eagles) Aphelele Madaka was industrious and allowed the Eagles to attack with momentum in their victory over FNB CUT Ixias. Wasting no time at the rucks, the scrumhalf ensured that his side was always on the front foot. He was also very instrumental on defence throughout the match and up until the point he was given a much-deserved break. High School: Hermanus High Provincial representation: U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Craven Week, Provincial U19, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division). Dewet Marais (FNB Maties) Dewet Marais played a pivotal role for the Maroon Machine as they outmuscled FNB UFS Shimlas. The Maties eighth-man, who grew up in Bloemfontein and was schooled at Grey College, scored a hat-trick of tries. This contribution of 15 points, laid the foundation for the Maties to win the encounter and hold onto their semi-final position. High School: Grey College Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Craven Week, SA Schools, Provincial U19, Provincial U20/21, Currie Cup (Premier and/or 1st Division). Taariq Kruger (FNB UCT Ikeys) Taariq Kruger put in hard yards on defence and made some telling tackles in Ikeys’ runaway victory over FNB UWC. The loose forward carried the ball with much aplomb, and it needed at least two UWC tacklers to bring him down. He was instrumental in the build-up to much of the second-half tries, which included five point-of-origin tries. High School: Durban High School Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Academy Week, Provincial U20/21 Kurtley Kiewiet (FNB UJ) Kurtley Kiewiet is the dynamic speedster from UJ. The flyhalf scored one try and converted five to give his side an extra edge over WITS. When he was not converting or scoring tries, he was found in the backline ready to help where UJ lacked. High School: Oakdale Agricultural High School Provincial representation: U13 Craven Week For the next round’s fixtures, click HERE.

Even though FNB UKZN are teetering on the brink of the relegation zone in the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition, the team from KwaZulu-Natal continue to attract and produce young talent. The 18-year-old Siso France is one such player. The former Kearsney College boy, who made his home debut in the KZN derby against FNB Varsity College back in round three, Comets, recalls the first time running out onto the field. “I played my first game against Madibaz, but I played my first full home game against Varsity College and it was a great experience. It was quite a feeling. Unfortunately, the results didn’t go our way.” Being one of the youngest players in the competition and the youngest in his team, France says he feels honoured to play such an important role for the Impis. “As a young player, the opportunity to play in the Shield is a massive one. Not many people get the chance to (do so). Some may be working just as hard and some even harder than us to get this opportunity.” The Eastern Cape-born young man expressed his gratitude and praise to his mentor, former Sharks captain, Lubabalo "Tera" Mtembu, who identified him in high school and continues to mentor him today. “Personally, my rugby idol is someone who represents similar values as mine and has taught me much, Mr Tera Mtembu. He has mentored me for the last three years now and I’m really grateful. I’ll always be indebted towards him because he has practically brought me to where I am today.” After booting two from four penalty kicks in his home debut game, France is yet to find his grove but the signs of big things to come are evident. “It’s a lot to hold in stepping onto the big stage and I can say age doesn’t really matter. I’ve made it a personal thing that wherever I play, I play to leave the place in a better level than when I found it. In this case, (it is) the Impi jersey,” says France. by Mpendulo Letsoalo

In his second year representing FNB Wits in the FNB Varsity Cup competition, Kabelo Mokhethi has been in impressive form wearing the number ten jersey. The 23-year-old has already completed a BA Law degree and is currently pursuing an LLB qualification at Wits University. In between the Varsity Cup and the LLB degree, he is also a part of the St John’s College U14A Rugby coaching staff, as a backline coach. Varsity Cup was fortunate to catch up with KB, as he is affectionately known, in between his busy schedule to chat about the competition and about what keeps him ticking. There has been a different feel to the Wits team this year, with quite a few new faces in the mix, says Mokhethi. “This year our squad is a lot younger than what we’ve had in the past years, but the guys are very excited to showcase their talents.” The flyhalf position requires a lot of calmness in pressure situations, but KB believes his remedy of building well in the week leading up to a game helps him keep his cool. “My week leading up to game day is imperative. I try to build momentum at training so that when those pressure moments arise in the game, I trust myself to execute.” KB has always believed in putting in the hard yards, which has certainly often set him apart from other players. He shares what has helped him in his rugby journey so far. “It takes a whole lot of sacrifices to get to this position, the number of hours spent on rugby and school obviously limit your social life a bit but those are sacrifices you must be willing to make in order to reap the rewards that come with being in this position.” Hard work at times goes hand-in-hand with inspiration and KB says he has found his through a late school friend, with whom he shared a special bond. “My biggest rugby inspiration lately has been my late friend Muzi Manyike. He was one person who played a huge role in building up my confidence in my abilities as a player. More importantly, he was an exceptional human being, so the thought of being able to continue playing for him who no longer has the opportunity drives me immensely.” by S’fiso Nyawo

Defending champions NWU Eagles survived a late onslaught by FNB CUT Ixias away from home to reclaim the top spot after round six of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup. Former champions FNB Maties handed FNB UFS Shimlas only their second defeat of the season while FNB UCT Ikeys completely demolished FNB UWC in the Cape Town derby. FNB UJ won the battle against Johannesburg neighbours FNB Wits. FNB NWU EAGLES 53 – 46 FNB CUT IXIAS It was a game of two halves in Bloemfontein that in the end saw FNB NWU Eagles edge out FNB CUT Ixias 53-46. The hosts took the lead early and extended it twice through the boot of fly-half Juan Smith before Eagles centre Arnold Volk charged down an attempted clearance from Smith and dotted down for the first try of the match. Shortly after their opener, the visitors had to wave goodbye to Miyelani Ngobeni after he was shown a red card following poor judgement in a tackle. Being a man short did not stop the Eagles as they raised their game, scoring four more tries, all converted by Zinedine Robinson. The half-time score was 37-12 in favour of the defending champions. The second half began exactly as the first half ended, with an Eagles try. The game looked like it was decided, but a try from CUT prop Mamello Moshoaliba breathed life into the home side. Smith's perfect kicking continued to keep the home side within reach. The defending champions however showed why they currently hold the trophy. With continued strength in defence, they kept the game in their favour despite being a man short for three-quarters of the contest. The final ten minutes turned the game entirely on its head, as the Ixias scored three unanswered and converted point-of-origin tries. Unfortunately, it was too little, too late, as the visiting Potchefstroom team took home maximum points. SCORERS FNB NWU Eagles 53 (37) – Tries: Arnold Vlok, Matome Manyama, Naiden Jaarts, Luan van der Walt, Tian van Zyl (2), Calvin Clack. Conversions: Zinedine Robinson (7). FNB CUT Ixias 46 (12) – Tries: Mamello Moshoaliba, Zac Bester, Adielson Gouveia, Jan-Hendrik Bessenger. Conversions: Juan Smith (4). Penalties: Juan Smith (3). FNB Player That Rocks: Matthew Luke Fortuin (FNB NWU Eagles) FNB NWU Eagles: Matome Molebogeng Manyama, Chyle Van Zyl, Ntobeko Thabiso Shezi, Stephan Krugel, Miyelani Ngobeni, Hennie Du Randt, Calvin Clack, Marvelous Mashimbyi, Aphelele Emihle Madaka, Zinedine Robinson, Naiden Jaarts, Arnoldus Christiaan Vlok, Matthew Luke Fortuin, Keano Ricardo Windvogel, Luan Jacobus Van Der Walt. FNB CUT Ixias: Mamello Moshoaliba, Albertus Human Venter, Sisipho Nofuya, Asekho Phindile Marubelela, Kevin Strydom, Tsebane Edward Stemer, Irwin Ivan Meyer, Tjaart Jurie Van der Walt, Raydon Swartbooi, Juan Arnold Smith, Tsepo Siphosethu Malumane, Liam Prinsloo, Zachary Bester, Adielson Gouveia, Nataniel Young. FNB MATIES 38 – 29 FNB UFS SHIMLAS Five-time champions FNB Maties broke FNB UFS Shimlas’ four-match unbeaten run with a 38-29 win at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. The Maroon Machine was simply better in the basics, and this resulted in a comfortable bonus point win. It was rather ironic that it was one of the Maties’ ‘Bloem boys’ Dewet Marais who scored a hat-trick of tries. The Shimlas were the first on the board through fullback Michael Annies who scored a point-of-origin try. This try started from a scrum five metres from the Shimlas line that saw Zane Bester make the break after collecting a chip-kick, and ultimately, Annies rounded off a stunning team try. Dewet Marais got the Maties on the board with his first try, before Shimlas captain Pierre Uys struck back from a clever lineout variation. Shortly before half-time, Marais completed his brace which saw the visitors trailing 19-12. Marias completed his hat-trick early in the second half to get the scoreboard ticking. The home team managed to strike back through Neels Volschenk. But tries by Hofmeyr Retief, Eric Basson and Louw Nel put the game out of reach for the Shimlas. On the stroke after full time, Jandré Nel scored for the Shimlas to see them earn at least a point in the game. SCORERS FNB Maties 38 (12) – Tries: Dewet Marais (3), Hofmeyr Retief, Eric Basson, Jacobus Nel, Conversions: Juan Mostert (4). FNB UFS Shimlas 29 (19) – Tries: Michael Annies, Pierre Uys, Neels Volschenk, Jandre Nel. Conversions: Ethan Wentzel (2). Penalties: Ethan Wentzel. FNB Player That Rocks:  Louw Nel (FNB Maties) FNB Maties: Prince Rotondwa Mulea, Siyasanga Ngubelanga, Friedrich Cornelius Weilbach, Matthys Jacobus Bernardus Kitshoff, Matthew Andrew Gray, Fortune Ntokozo Mpofu, Jacobus Adriaan Louw Nel, Dewet Marais, McKyle Volmoer, Juan Mostert, Matthew van Schalkwyk, Aydon Colin Topley, Ryan Marcus Manuel, Paschal Hans Uzoma Ekeji, Hofmeyr Gideon Retief. FNB UFS Shimlas: Ntokozo Hlophe, Liyema Mgwigwi, Francisco Dos Reis, Pierre-Raymond Freddie Uys, John Raymond Stopforth, Cornelius Hermanus Smit Volschenk, Katlego Lobakeng, Sobe Siyambuka Nakhane Ningiza, Jandre Nel, Ethan SJ Wentzel, Siviwe Zondani, Gideon Jooste Nel, Zane Bester, Kirwin Curtley Du Preez, Michael Jnr Kurt Annies. FNB UCT IKEYS 91 – 9 FNB UWC The Chester Williams Memorial Trophy remains with FNB UCT Ikeys for another year after they beat FNB UWC 91-9 at the UWC Sports Stadium. In perfect conditions for some entertaining rugby, Ikeys brought the heat to Bellville running in 13 tries to one when they thoroughly outplayed Udubs in their backyard. Ntokozo Makhaza kept the scoreboard ticking over with his accuracy off the tee and made telling runs that got the visitors over the advantage line at regular intervals. The home side enjoyed very little ball, and had it not been for a few errors when they did carry the ball, their promising phases of attack could have kept them within touching distance of the Ikey Tigers. As the players headed into the sheds for half-time, UCT was comfortable on the scoreboard, leading by 33-0. The second half got off with a repeat of the opening 40 minutes, with Ikeys scoring five seven-point tries. Luke Burger first completed his hat-trick and then added a fourth to his tall. An all-around clinical display by UCT proved to be too much firepower for UWC to handle in their final home game of the season. FNB UCT Ikeys 91 (33) – Tries: Joshua Miller, Luke Burger (4), Keagan Blanckenberg (2), Mika Schubbert (2), Joshua Miller, Ntokozo Makhaza, Tian Vorster, Alexander Vermeulen. Conversions: Ntokozo Makhaza (5), Alexander Vermeulen (3). FNB UWC 9 (0) – Try: Hlomla Ncana. Conversion: Aaron Swartz. FNB Player That Rocks: Luke Burger (FNB UCT) FNB UCT Ikeys: Mhleli Khethuxolo Khuzwayo, Keagan Jordan Blanckenberg, Jovan Bekker, Reynhardt Wouter Crous, Johan van Rhyn, Siphumezo Dyonase, Taariq Mohammed Kruger, Wandile Mlaba, Joshua Keith Miller, Alexander Vermeulen, Ntokozo Sibusiso Makhaza, Jonathan Roche, Joshua Michael Boulle, Luke John Burger, Duran Ryan Koevort. FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, Ruben Swanepoel, Franco Ceasar, Alexander-Jaco van der Merwe, Carel van der Merwe, Almore Kuilders, Melumzi Mandongana, Zinzan Magerman, Wian van der Sandt, Aaron Swartz, Hlomla Ncana, Bryan Breda, Denver Van Wyk, Bevan Simons, Jean van Schalkwyk. FNB UJ 49 – 26 FNB WITS In the battle of the Johannesburg neighbours, FNB UJ secured their first victory of the season when they beat FNB Wits 49-26 at the UJ Stadium. Wits were the first to break the deadlock when hooker Dewet Lottering broke through to go over the line. Dustyn Holmes did not waste time adding another one for the visitors. The Orange Army opened up play and took full advantage of building phase after phase to claim a points-of-origin try through Sfiso Dlamini. He was an important player for his team as he secured a brace. Kurtley Kiewiet also added to UJ’s success, not only on conversion duty but also contributing to the tries tally as they took a 16-12 half-time lead. The Orange Army’s Likhona Finca crossed the try line just after play resumed in the second half.  It was Luhle Matyolweni who responded for Wits. Connor van Buuren and David Cary added to the UJ try feast. Both teams faced difficulties throughout the match. UJ prop Andrew Siminyu came off after an injury while Wits had to spend some time with a 14-man squad after Tireque Apolles was sent off due to a head collision. SCORERS FNB UJ 49 (16) – Tries: Sfiso Dlamini (2), Kurtley Kiewiet, Likhona Finca, Connor van Buuren, David Cary. Conversions: Kurtley Kiewiet (5); Rowan Malgas (1). Penalties: Kurtley Kiewiet (1). FNB Wits 26 (12) – Tries: Dewet Lottering, Dustyn Holmes, Luhle Matyolweni, Setshaba Mohlakoane Mokoena. Conversions: Tireque Apolles; Setshaba Mohlakoane Mokoena (2). FNB Player That Rocks: Likhona Finca (FNB UJ) FNB UJ: Andrew Peter Siminyu, Mauritz Swart, Bian Douglas Janse Van Rensburg, Marius Coetzee, Connor Van Buuren, Kamohelo Rorisang Molefe, Phillip Apea-Adu, Franco Julian Schutte, Liam Rowan, Kurtley Kiewiet, Prince Nkabinde, Likhona Finca, Sfiso Perseverance Dlamini, Boldwin Hansen, Rowan Malgas. FNB Wits: Jason Hayden Cloete, Dewet Lottering, Sibusiso Thando Shongwe, Armin Durandt Weiderman, George Lawson St Leger Devenish, Kelvin Tafirenika Kanenungo, Thandolwethu Biyela, Lindokuhle Ncusane, Mogamad Pead, Tireque Caleb Apolles, Lindani Dweba, Mthokozisi Siyabonga Xulu, Luhle Liyema Matyolweni, Dustyn Matthew Holmes, Setshaba Mohlakoane Mokoena.

With just two round-robin matches left in the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition, FNB UP-Tuks and FNB Madibaz look likely to host the two semi-final encounters on Friday 19 April. Debutants FNB Varsity College should also make it through and while FNB WSU currently find themselves in the top four on the log, a host of teams are hot on their heels. Here are some of the standout players from round 5. Kyle Cyster (FNB UP-Tuks) For the second week in a row, the Stripe Generation handed out a hefty defeat to their opponents with FNB UKZN at the receiving end this time around. Kyle Cyster had no problem slipping past the opposition, scoring one of his side’s nine tries. The fullback’s stepping, and offloads right from the start until the final whistle went was simply outstanding. High School: Hottentots-Holland High School Provincial Representation: Provincial U19, Provincial U20/21 Kyle Erasmus (FNB Madibaz) Madibaz walked away with a solid victory over FNB TUT and Kyle Erasmus was a force in the mauls dotting down two tries. The team from Gqeberha dominated on attack and in the mauls with the burly hooker at the centre. It was clear that he enjoyed himself in the breakdowns as he disrupted the opposition’s play and forced a handful of turnovers. High School: Die Brandwag High School Provincial Representation: Provincial U20/21 MacMillan Mudara (FNB Varsity College) Varsity College continued to build on in impressive first season in the Varsity Cup when they beat FNB CPUT at home in Durban. MacMillan Mudara has been a stalwart in the midfield and delivered yet another clean performance, resulting in his Player That Rocks accolade. He has been impressive throughout the competition with quick-stepping and some fire in the legs. High School: Northwood Boys High / Lomagundi Provincial Representation: U18 Academy Week, Zimbabwe U20, Zimbabwe Grant Khomo Week, U18 Seven Zimbabwe Khanya Solani (FNB WSU) A sublime performance by Khanya Solani helped WSU record an important victory and bragging rights against Eastern Cape neighbours FNB UFH. The flanker's performance, especially during open play, made sure the hosts had enough scoring opportunities. His assistance in gaining those extra yards landed him the Player That Rocks award. High School: Ntsonkotha Senior Secondary School For next week’s fixtures, click HERE.

FNB UCT Ikeys have a lot to play for in the latter stages of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup competition. With one loss, one draw and three victories, the Ikey Tigers find themselves fourth on the log, equal on points with FNB Maties also on 18 points. Defence coach Craig Childs says the team knows what's at stake and will give it their all in the remaining fixtures. "The team is building a nice understanding of our game model and what this year's tournament requires for us to be in the mix come semi-final time. Our team is driven by our shared values, we focus on those, rather than chasing results. "We challenge ourselves to deliver on our values week in and week out rather than focussing too far ahead. All sights now are on UWC (Monday 25 March) and bringing the best of ourselves this week and into the game.” After the UWC fixture, Ikeys travel to Potchefstroom to face defending champions FNB NWU Eagles. Childs says the team’s game model is going to be crucial. "Our game model can be tricky to play against, but when we execute, at the intensity and accuracy we are happy with we can get on top of teams. Our defensive mindset is strongly driven by our trained behaviours. "We do not focus on stopping tries but rather creating pressure on the opposition to force them to feed our game model. "We delivered in this regard in patches this past week and we are very motivated to increase our consistency this week." by Ayanda Frances Felem

FNB NWU Eagles flyhalf Zinedine Robinson believes the defending champions’ experience can lead them to a playoff spot in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup competition. The Eagles have won four of their opening five games and Zinedine gives credit to coach Burger van der Westhuizen for his tactics. “Coach Burger's game plan has been working for the team so far, whatever he comes up with works. Whenever he tells us something about a team, when we get on the field we see what he was talking about.” The Eagles’ only loss came at the hands of FNB Shimlas and Zinedine believes there’s always room for improvement. “There's always room for improvement. I think we dominated the first 20 minutes but after that, we let the opponents back into the game so I think we can improve in terms of killing games off.” With the Eagles currently second on the log, Zinedine emphasised that his team will play the semis and highlighted the importance of getting a home semi-final. “We'll play the semis, there's no doubt in that. I just think the senior guys in the team know what it takes to be here and what we need to do, so we don't feel any pressure to get into the semis and we'll just do what we've been doing. It's very important to get a home semi-final because the town of Potchefstroom always backs us all the way and we know what it means to the students and the people living here.” Robinson has played a crucial role so far with his brilliant kicking technique and says it all goes down to hard work. “I put in the work every week and I also watch the way professional players like Handré Pollard kick and try to learn. Whenever I kick I try to silence all the noise from the crowd so it’s just me and the ball which helps to reduce the pressure.” by Lesiba Dikhoba

With only three points from five matches and sitting in the relegation bracket of the log, FNB UJ hope to tap into winning ways as there are only a couple of weeks left of the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup competition. Despite the less-than-ideal performances so far, speedster Boldwin Hansen has given credit to the Orange Army’s coaching staff. “We have a great relationship with all our coaches. They work hard behind the scenes. It’s just unfortunate that the result is not coming our way, but we still believe we can [win].” With a couple of narrow losses at the start of the competition, UJ however had to contend with huge defeats as the tournament progressed. Hansen says there is just one reason for this. “We weren’t consistent enough. We just need to stick to our system and plan to be a greater team. What I liked about our team is that from the start of the competition, the boys pitch at training with an attitude of getting better each time. There was never a day where we had to fight with individuals not doing their part.” According to Hansen, the team’s attack force is a factor that has been working for them in the past matches. “We’re dangerous on the attack. When we switch on, we do everything to the best of our ability, especially from turnover ball, we switch on immediately and just drive the ball to the end.” Hansen shares his thoughts on their last two matches in 2024 against FNB Wits and FNB UWC. “We just want to end the season well and collect ten points from these last two games. Our attitude just needs to be better and not give our opponents a chance to attack.” by Karabo Peter

While FNB CUT Ixias are currently sixth on the log in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup, there is a strong belief in the team, and they are positive that they can still make the playoffs. Reaching the semi-finals will be a tough ask from the team from Bloemfontein though. Mathematically it is still possible, but it will require solid victories in their last round-robin games and a favour or two from other teams. Ixias’ remaining games are against defending champions FNB NWU Eagles (Monday 25 March) and the week after they will have to deal with five-time champions FNB Maties. This past Monday (18 March) they went down 40-59 to city neighbours FNB Shimlas in an absolute humdinger. The famous Ixias fighting spirit and grit came to the fore again and they did expose a few of the Shimlas’ weaknesses. Ixias captain and hooker Albertus Venter feels that the sprint in the camp remains high and they will take it one game at a time. “From here it is only going upwards. We'll focus on the mistakes that we made, fix it and work on it and then target the game against the Eagles next. “The possibility of reaching the semi-finals will be tough, but if we dig deep and we work hard I think we can do it. It's not impossible.” When asked which of his players impressed him the most during the Bloemfontein derby, Venter took the diplomatic route but indicated exactly what his players meant to him. “All of the boys put a smile on my face. That second-half fight is something that you get from a lot of teams. “I love these boys - they put their bodies on the line for each other. I cannot ask for more than that.”

FNB UKZN face a daunting task in their opening match in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup Women’s tournament when they take on defending champions FNB Maties in the first match on Friday 22 March. Coach Lungelo Shelembe shared his thoughts on his team’s plans for the upcoming campaign and how they plan to maneuver this season with the lessons learnt last time out. “Our team has been unable to play any warm-up matches due to financial constraints and as a result, our preparation for the upcoming season has been challenging. “We understand that we are in a tough group, but our focus is on one game at a time. We know what it feels like to lose, and we are determined to bring a different fight this year.” According to Shelembe, they get strength from a string of other positive results. “Although we were knocked out early in the Varsity Cup by Maties [last year] we managed to win other matches both home and away, and we secured a fourth-place finish in the USSA competition.” He says UKZN see their underdog status as a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block. “We know that every team is preparing to win the Cup, but we are the underdogs, and we will bring a different fight. We have not lost a single match at our home ground in the last three years, and we aim to maintain our record. What you can expect from our team is a good performance and a high-spirited group.” For a full fixture list, click HERE. by Mpendulo Letsoalo

Participating in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup has been an awakening of note for FNB UWC as the 2023 FNB Varsity Shield champions find themselves at the bottom of the log. Paul Treu and his coaching staff worked hard in the off-season and knew they were the underdogs. They still managed to put together a formidable squad, who despite being winless, have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience. Players like Conwill Conradie, Aaron Swartz, Romuad Nsombamanya, Wian van der Sandt, and Louan de Lange have made a huge impact. Assistant coach Lionel Langenhoven says they are still positive. "The team remains positive despite where we find ourselves on the log. “We need to continue honing the skills of the players and help them realise their potential on the field. This is a key for everyone in the UWC team environment, to never slow down on learning from this beautiful game." UWC came close, a few seasons back in 2019, in beating FNB UCT at home when World Cup-winning Springbok Kurt-Lee Arendse was on fire for the Bellville outfit that Monday night at the Green Mile. Hopefully, they can outperform their Cape neighbours in their upcoming fixture (Monday 25 March) when they welcome the Ikey Tigers to Bellville. The match against FNB CUT in round three was a glimpse of what UWC could achieve if they were given more time to play against the best South African university teams. After trailing 33-7 at halftime, UWC came back hard and restricted the visitors to a single second-half try. The 2024 chapter for UWC will be one layered in experience gains and learning from the best university rugby programmes in the country. Despite losing their captain, Tasriq Mynhardt, in the first-round encounter against FNB Wits, Nsombamanya and other players have stepped up tremendously in leadership roles within the squad. by Lyndon Julius