2024 FNB Varsity Cup player of the tournament and all-time leading points scorer, Ntokozo Makhaza, has had an electric start to the campaign that’s helped his side to third place in the FNB Varsity Cup standings after 4 rounds. The 23-year-old Social Sciences student harbors hopes of one day playing for the Springboks and sees the competition as the perfect opportunity to help launch his career. “My goal after the Varsity Cup like I said, my future aspirations as a rugby player is to play for the Springboks one, and also just to play professionally. So, the goal after this season is to hopefully get signed for a pro club and take it from there” said Makhaza. Makhaza and the FNB UCT Ikeys came close to lifting last year’s title before they were beaten by FNB UFS Shimlas in last season's final. Now in his final year of studies, Makhaza believes they have the right blend of talent and experience to go all the way in 2025. “We have more responsibility and I believe especially during the tough matches we’ll be more equipped to make the tough decisions. To dig deep in the tough times, to play for one another, knowing that we’ve lived out those values and that’s what I believe is the major difference between last year and this year.” The Ikey Tigers home form has been brilliant so far, with three wins out of three while losing out to FNB CUT in their only match on the road. Makhaza admitted the Ikey Tigers are looking to satisfy their appetite for FNB Varsity Cup silverware, “there is hunger to win it, we’ve fallen short in the past two years by a few points in both years, so I believe there’s a proper mixture of experience and youngsters who are really hungry”.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Kieryn Thompson

Round 1 of FNB Varsity Cup Women began in spectacular fashion where FNB Maties got sweet revenge over the defending champions FNB UFH winning the match 31-19 at Davidson Stadium in Alice. FNB UP Tuks opened their campaign with a narrow 15-12 victory over FNB UWC in Bellville while the Orange Army began the tournament with a shutout win over FNB UKZN.   Here is our selection for standout players from round 1.   Jessica Maré  (FNB UP-Tuks) The inspirational FNB UP-Tuks Women’s captain can do it all. She runs hard with the ball, tackles even harder and leads from the front where her team follows. Maré, who packs down at No 8, even kicks at goal and did so superbly, slotting a conversion from the corner in her side’s 15-12 win over FNB UWC Women.   Boitumelo Motshoane (FNB UJ) The opening game for the Orange Army was a low scoring yet back-and-forth affair from the beginning until the very last minute of the game and it was Boitumelo Motshoane who was a warrior for FNB UJ. She scored a crucial try sealing the victory against FNB UKZN.   Elme Kruger (FNB Maties) With her two tries against the defending champions, Elme Kruger had a blast of a game. Kruger read the game brilliantly and played a vital role in getting a sweet revenge for FNB Maties over FNB UFH. Watch highlights HERE .

The fiery UFS Shimlas hooker, Vice Hofmeyr, is determined to seize his moment in the number two jersey for the defending FNB Varsity Cup champions as he continues to establish himself in the team. Hofmeyr, who hails from the Northern Cape town of Kuruman and attended Hoërskool Diamantveld in Kimberley, is as tough as his hometown, and he prefers to let his actions do the talking on the field. Like any other player, he is determined to go professional one day. He recognises the value of playing in the Varsity Cup—not only as a stepping stone towards this dream but also as a way to earn a quality education to fall back on. Hofmeyr says donning the number two jersey for one of the most historic clubs in South Africa is a huge honour, and he wants to do it justice on the field. “For me, being the current hooker for the Shimlas is a massive privilege—not just representing the club but also honouring the legacy of every player who has worn this jersey before me,” said Hofmeyr. “It’s very important for me to play with my heart and soul in every game, to add value wherever I can, and to leave the jersey in a better place.” Hofmeyr, who is already on the radar of the Cheetahs, admits that his dream is to take his game to the next level—but he also understands the importance of having a solid backup plan for his future. “Securing a professional rugby contract would be a dream come true, allowing me to live my passion and make a valuable and meaningful contribution to the team. However, it’s not just about the contract—I strive to inspire the next generation, not just rugby players, but everyone.” “My ambition to secure a professional contract is incredibly high, but I also prioritise my studies to ensure I have a degree to fall back on. As you said, everything can change in a heartbeat, so you always need a backup plan.” Hofmeyr and his teammates will be in action again on Monday night when they face their city rivals, the CUT Ixias, at Shimla Park in the Bloem derby.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

The FNB Varsity Cup is set for an electrifying showdown as the FNB Maties host the FNB UCT Ikeys at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch on Monday. This Western Cape derby is anticipated to draw a large crowd, with both teams in strong form this season. FNB Maties currently top the FNB Varsity Cup standings with 20 points, maintaining an unbeaten streak. Their recent 25-0 victory over FNB UJ showcased their dominance, with tries from Ryan Manuel, Ezekiel Ngobeni, Carel van der Merwe, and Armand Combrink. Ikeys, in third place with 15 points, have demonstrated resilience, suffering only one loss so far. Their strategic play and determination make them formidable opponents, eager to challenge Maties' supremacy. Maties coach, Kabamba Floors, expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "Our players have embraced the legacy of Maties rugby, playing with passion and unity,” he said. "While our unbeaten run is commendable, each match is a new challenge, and we must approach the Ikeys game with the same intensity and commitment."  Ikeys coach, Robbie Fleck, acknowledged the strength of their opponents but remained optimistic.  "Maties have been impressive this season," he noted. "However, we believe in our game plan and the capabilities of our players. This fixture is always special, and we're determined to give our best performance." The match kicks off at 19:00, and with both teams in strong form, fans can expect an intense and closely contested game. Fixtures: HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Adnaan Mohamed

FNB Varsity Cup Women round 1 saw FNB Maties Women avenging themselves 31-19 against the defending champions FNB UFH Women at Davidson Stadium on Friday. While FNB UP-Tuks Women narrowly outclass FNB UWC Women 15-12 in Bellville. A pacey FNB UJ Women takes all the points in KZN.  FNB UFH Women 19-31 FNB Maties Women The Maroon Machine scored four first half tries in the first match of the FNB Varsity Cup Women 2025 against FNB UFH Women at Davidson Stadium. The visitors dominated matters at the end of the first stanza leading by 24-5 thanks to two tries from Elme Kruger, Shanidine Bezuidenhout and Jade Daniels. The defending champions tried to give a strong fight in the first half following tries by Sibabalwe Jobo, but it was FNB Maties Women who had the last word. As the second half resumed, captain Elizabeth Slabbert added to the visitors' score sheet. It didn't take time before the home side hit back with two tries from Lilitha Vakalisa who burst through to beat two defenders and get the Baby Blues second try of the game followed by Sindisiwe Mbonja’s taking the score to 19-31 after 53 minutes. But it was the Maroon Machine who had the last say as they avenged their loss in last year’s final to start their 2025 campaign with a bonus point win over the defending champions.   Watch highlights HERE. SCORERS FNB UFH Women: 19 (5) Tries: Elme Kruger (2), Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Jade Daniels, Elizabeth Slabbert   FNB Maties Women: 31 (24): Tries: Sibabalwe Jobo, Lilitha Vakalisa, Sindisiwe Mbonja.   FNB Player that Rocks: Zelmarie Pretorius (FNB Maties Women).   TEAMS FNB UFH Women: Simnikiwe Mlakalaka, Aphiwe Nqana, Eyam Ngalo, Siphosethu Ngogodo, Masie Mathangane, Lindokuhle Sinaze, Simamnkele Jolingana, Rose Haka, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Pinkie Touto ©, Adaora Philemina, Lilitha Vakalisa, Sibabalwe Jobo, Litha Tofu, Inga Qongi. FNB Maties Women: Erin Bond, Juan-Mari Du Plessis, Sesethu Ntamnani, Sarah Krone, Lekobane Maria Masebe, Jenna Meyer, Stefney-Rose de Vries, Ankia Viljoen, Taliyah Bussack, Elme Kruger, Jade Daniels, Zelmarie Pretorius, Elizabeth Slabbert ©, Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Kayleen Muggels. FNB UWC Women 12-15 FNB Tuks Women FNB UP Tuks Women opened their FNB Varsity Cup campaign with a convincing 15-12 win over FNB UWC Women in Bellville. The Tuks side laid the foundation of their win in the first half of the match after a clinical display helped the side open a 10-0 lead after 35 minutes. FNB UWC Women had the stronger scrum, a solid lineout, and took the ball from coast to coast, but FNB UP Tuks’ defence held strong throughout the match to keep the home side scoreless in the first half and force them to work hard for the two second-half tries. FNB UP-Tuks’ inspirational captain, No 8 Jess Mar opened the scoring with a penalty in front of the sticks before winger Marisna Godsil dotted down in the right corner after being put into space by her inside backs. Mar slotted a brilliant conversion from the corner to open up the halftime lead. It took until halfway through the second stanza for FNB UWC to secure their first points of the match, with fullback Nandile Mvandaba rumbling over after an extended period of pressure from the home side. FNB UP Tuks opposite number Kwanga Majebe glided through the FNB UWC Women defence shortly after to take her side to a 15-5 lead. With time up on the clock and the match out of sight, FNB UWC Women scored a brilliant, long-range, point of origin try through winger Qaqamba Ngqabalala to put a few smiles on the home crowd’s faces.   SCORERS   FNB UWC Women: 12 (0). Tries: Nandile Mvandaba, Qaqamba Ngqabalala .   FNB Tuks Women: 15 (10). Tries: Marisna Godsil, Kwanga Majebe.     FNB Player that Rocks: Jess Mar (FNB Tuks Women).     TEAMS FNB UWC Women: Sange Makhwezela, Unathi Tolbart, Anothando Khatshwa, Kaylee Daniels, Iviwe Jonas Jada Davids, Akhona Nkosi, Lithethaa Maqhude, Taybah Johaar, Marli George, Qaqamba Ngqabalala, Anathi Mkiva, Abongwe Vilane, Lee-Amber (C) Beukes, Nandile Mvandaba, Taylon Pieterse, Nothando Dlamini, Olwethu Qotyiwe, Tshegofatso Malatje, Masentle Rethabile Khanyetsi, Samukelisiwe Mjweni, Amaarah Abrahams, Sisipho Tshotsha. FNB Tuks Women: Arnell Primo, Aphiwe Masuku, Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Mbali Ndlovu, Rethabile Kgatle, Thandi Mokatse, Kheselina Rens, Jess (C) Mar, Erin Prins, Precious (V) Tlaka, Amukelani Lisenga, Gugu Mncwabe, Lerato Tshabalala, Marisna Godsil, Kwanga Majebe, Leon de Bruyn, Sharon Stoaba, Naki Thukutha, Ox Xholi, Gina Moya, Innocentia Kgosana, Thato Nkadimeng.   FNB UKZN Women 0-14 FNB UJ Women Under a drizzly climate the Impi Ladies hosted a pacey FNB UJ Women team that put away two converted tries in a clear away victory. The first quarter of the match was contested by both teams in a cagey affair. Despite this contest, no team made it close to the try line, but the scrums looked good. The same conditions continued into the halfway break, a lifeless scoreboard, with a bit of spark on the pitch, as both teams couldn’t get any points on the half. Just under 10 minutes into the second half is what it took for the FNB UJ Women to finally give some scoreboard changes as Odirile Pusoe dotted down on the far corner after the constant pressure by the away team was finally rewarded. Siham Chtioui converted well for her team, 7-0 to the away team. Not much happened in the match, a back-and-forth-affair as had been from the beginning until the very last minute of the game, Boitumelo Motshoane, giving a moment of the match as she left a handful of Impi ladies down - nonable to bring her down as she raced to the try line. FNB UJ Women fly half making it 14-0 to the away team as a final score.   SCORERS FNB UKZN Women: 0 (0) Tries:   FNB UJ Women: 14 (0) Tries: Tries: Odirile Pusoe, Boitumelo Motshoane.   FNB Player that Rocks: Thobile Msizazwe (FNB UJ Women).   TEAMS FNB UKZN Women : Amanda Dladla, Nonduduzo Yengwa (c), Siphokuhle Mdletshe, Lulama Cele, Kimberely Fynn, Nomonde Mbanjwa, Moonlight Mathebula, Amanda Madlala, Nonhlanzeka Khuzwayo, Snethemba Mzimela, Mahlogonolo Nkoane, Athiphile Njiyela, Nosipho Mkhize, Zama Mbeje, Ziyanda Felicia Shazi. FNB UJ Women :  Vuyiswa Dlamini, Salizwa Tyali, Odirile Pusoe, Sindiswa Ngwenya, Lethiwe Buthelezi, Sphilile Sigwaza, Nyashadzashe Gonangombe, Alutha Ngcezula, Fatouma Yalcoue, Siham Chtioui, Boitumelo Motshoane, Mpumelelo Dlamini, Nonhle Mbatha, Thobile Msizazwe, Noxolo Magasela.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

FNB Varsity Shield 2025 continues to take it to the next level with yet another round of dramatic results. FNB Varsity College caused the biggest upset of the night after handing log leaders FNB CPUT their first defeat of the season in emphatic fashion. The Comets move up into top spot while in Bellville FNB UWC returned to winning ways after beating a gritty Impi side. FNB SPU snatched a late winner against FNB UFH while FNB Madibaz cruised past FNB WSU at Sisa Dukashe Stadium.  FNB WSU 14-36 FNB Madibaz FNB Madibaz improved their chances of qualifying for this year’s FNB Varsity Shield semifinals after defeating FNB WSU 36-14 in round five of the competition at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in East London on Friday. The side from Gqeberha entered the clash brimming with confidence after stunning FNB UWC in round four. Meanwhile, FNB WSU defeated FNB SPU on home soil in round four.   The first half was dominated by the hosts who displayed a high level of physicality and showcased their entertaining offloading game in wet and muddy conditions.  They scored two team tries through Jaden Witbooi and centre, Lwando Davane and both were converted by flyhalf, Raashied Conrad. Conrad had slotted in a penalty earlier in the game, and that meant the visitors led 17-0 at halftime. Madibaz were far from done and opened the second stanza with a five-pointer scored by Conrad. Lock forward, Martinus Strydom quickly joined the scoring party after crashing over from a powerful rolling maul. The hosts rang in the changes, and it paid dividends as Luvo Zindela and Axola Mtalana scored two consolation tries in the final 10 minutes. Those were, however, cancelled out with another Witbooi try in the 79th minute to secure a resounding 36-14 victory for his side.  SCORERS   FNB WSU: 14 (0) Tries: Luvo Zindela, Axola Mtalana.   FNB Madibaz: 36 (17) Tries: Jaden Witbooi (2), Bukho Pantsi, Raashied Conrad, Martinus Strydom.   FNB Player that Rocks: Raashied Conrad (FNB Madibaz)   TEAMS: FNB WSU: Yanda Ndamase, Sibulele Manyube, Yoyisa Mahobe, Sinentlahla Kesa, Siseko Mani, Khanya Solani, Pernell Mendes, Sipho Hobosch, Asenam Mniki, Isiphe Mbini, Sikho Gaushe, Elam Kusa, Axola Mtalana, Bulelani Nondlwana, Beon Hartnick.  FNB Madibaz: Imibongo Mvuleni, Kyle Erasmus, AJ Flemming, Calvin Bosch, Martinus Strydom, Johan Van Zijl, Curwin Casper, Raashied Conrad, Bukho Pantsi, Lwando Davane, Edward Kruger ©, Jaden Witbooi, Layron Miborrow.    FNB CPUT 17-40 FNB Varsity College FNB CPUT faced a tough battle against FNB Varsity College, going down 40-17 in a match filled with intense moments, strong comebacks, and unfortunate setbacks, including two red cards. FNB Varsity College started strong, scoring four unanswered tries in the first half, with Thabo Njapha, Khumo-etsile Nkutha, Benjamin Brett Field, and Edward Sigauke all crossing the line. Flyhalf Frederick Marx was clinical with the boot, converting three of them to give FNB Varsity College a commanding 26-0 lead at halftime.FNB CPUT came out fighting in the second half, with Nkosephayo Ngema scoring early to get the team on the board. The Comets responded quickly, with Sigauke grabbing his second try and Marx adding the extras. FNB CPUT’s Denley Adams and Oyintando Maseti kept the fight alive, both scoring crucial tries, but FNB Varsity College’s Juan Orde Steyl sealed the game with another converted try. The full time score was 40 -17 to FNB Varsity CollegeDespite flashes of brilliance, FNB CPUT’s momentum was halted by two red cards, making a comeback even more difficult. The team showed heart but will need to regroup and sharpen their discipline for the next fixture.   SCORERS   FNB CPUT: 17 (0) Tries: Nkosephavo 'Ox' Ngema, Denley Adams, Oyintando Maseti. FNB Varsity College: 40 (26) Tries: Thabo Njapha, Khumo-etsile Nkutha, Benjamin Brett Field, Edward Sigauke (2), Juan Orde Els.   FNB Player that Rocks: Edward Sigauke (FNB Varsity College).   TEAMS FNB CPUT : Nkosephayo Ngema, Lindisipho Lihle Kula, Kieran Delaan Naidoo, Ntsako Ashely Mhlanga, Keenan Benjamin, Odwa Rolosi, Lathitha Sange Ratsibe. Naaba Mveliao Nkonyeni, Denley Krid Adams, Jayson January, Ovintando Honour Massti, Jesse-Owen Denation, Timothy Matthew Shortles, Iwaan Bloys, Noah Pekeur, Keewan Titus.   FNB Varsity College:  Daniel Van Huizen, Thabo Niapha, Donell Francis, Reece Curtin, Garren Muller, Sinelifa Newana, Enzo Van Niekerk, Khumo-etsile Nkutha, Abande Mthembu, Frederick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, MJ Schoeman, Allston Cedras, Benjamin Brett Field. FNB UFH 33-39 FNB SPU A heartbreak in Alice as FNB SPU snatched a late 39-33 victory over FNB UFH at Davidson Stadium on Friday. Two tries from Jaiden Faviers saw the visitors break the hearts of University of Fort Hare fans to claim their second win of the campaign. First half saw both teams exchanging blow by blow as Liyabona Maplanga broke the deadlock for the Northern Cape based side. It was then a close encounter in points scoring, and the first stanza ended with the visitors leading by 19-12.Second half didn't disappoint as it continued to where the first stanza left off. Three tries were scored in the second half however Khanya Kama's boot was a difference in adding the scoreline for the visitors. With one minute left before the final whistle, Faviers got his brace and handed the Gemmies the lead at the death as they sailed over the visitors for a smash and grab the win.   Watch highlights HERE. SCORERS   FNB UFH: 33 (12) Tries: Majali Lakheni, Siyamthanda Sakhela, Bunono Jamani (2).    FNB SPU: 39 (19) Tries: Liyabona Maplanga, Dwayne Lubbe, Jaiden Faviers (2), Leslie Ruiters.   FNB Player that Rocks: Khanya Kama (FNB SPU).     TEAMS FNB UFH: Elihle Mtshemla, Bunono Jamani ©, Liyabona Matyana, Mpho Ramahala, Kamvelile Gcweka, Dala Mgidi, Michael Mangava, Anda Simanga, Sinalo Jivana, Sakhela Siyamthanda, Okuhle Pangwa, Lakheni Majali, Takudzwa Rushiza, Lutho Mene, Ukho Nomsatha. FNB SPU: Aviwe Mpepo, Jan Potgieter, Cassie Botes, Tumelo Papane, Kwandokuhle Dlamini, Thando Shipalana, J J Fourie, Gareth Maree, Ethan Manus, Leslie Ruiters, Liyabona Maplanga, Khanya Kama ©, Jaiden Faviers, Dwayne Lubbe, Bokamoso Maphisa.   FNB UWC 44-31 FNB UKZN FNB UWC did just enough to overcome a resilient FNB UKZN side 44-31 at home in Bellville to get their FNB Varsity Shield campaign back on track. FNB UWC scored an astonishing eight tries in their victory but left a total of 12 points on the field through missed conversion attempts as only two of their tries saw the extras added.That kept the nuggetty FNB UKZN in the game who came to Cape Town with a never-say-die attitude. FNB UKZN scored half the number of tries, four, but converted all their chances off the boot through the educated tee of fullback Siso France who also slotted an early penalty to stay within touching distance of FNB UWC with only an eight point difference with 12 minutes to go. The Caracals showed their class, rumbling over two second half maul tries, which could easily have been three, as hooker Mihlali Tyanase grabbed a brace. Strong running inside centre Braydon Booysen and electric winger Leachim Adams scored two tries of their own as wellFNB UWC opened up an early 17-3 lead in the first half that FNB UKZN had to climb back from. FNB UKZN clawed their way to a solid position, only seven points down at halftime at 24-17 but FNB UWC’s class showed in the second stanza.   Watch highlights HERE. SCORERS   FNB UWC: 44 (24) Tries: Leachim Adams (2), Braydon Booysen (2), Mihlali Tyanase (2), Conwill Conradie, Keno Alexander.   FNB UKZN: 31 (17) Tries: Sikhona Ndulini (2), Jovawn Visagie, Mthomboyolo Buzani.   FNB Player that Rocks: Logan Fortuin (FNB UWC).    TEAMS FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, Mihlali Tyanase, Keanuh Michaels, Logan Fortuin, Michail Kasfikis Romauld (C) Nsombamanya, Nicholas Chipanje, Leighton Damon, Conwill (V) Conradie, Leigh Braaf, Leachim Adams, Braydon Booysen, Bevan Simons, Hlomla Ncana, Keno Alexander, Keagan Pietersen, Franco Ceaser, Melumzi Mandongana, Danston Cloete, Ishmael Karriem, J’que Huckins, Keith Syster, Daniel Damons. FNB UKZN: Lonwabo Nkalitshana, Sikhona Ndulini, Owethu Mntwelizwe, Aphelele Dlamini, Mthomboyolo (C) Buzani, Nhlakanipho Buthelezi, Wela-Aphumelele Takata Tinotenda Mazhindu, Milowo Matebese, Minehle Mfanelo Ngcamu, Luthando Mhlongo, Singele Mkhize, Jovawn Visagie, Ramatuku Sikhakhane, Siso France, Jordan Ramsamy, Siyanda Dlamini, Thabiso Ncube, Amahle Dlamini, Samkelo Mkhize, Zak Smith, Hlumelo Madikane, Ntobeko Mhlongo. Fixtures: HERE   Tickets:  HERE

For Ndinani Nodlayiya, rugby is more than a sport, it’s part of his identity. Coming from a family of scrum-halves and growing up in the rugby loving community of Kraaifontein, his passion for the game was nurtured early. His skills were honed at Brackenfell High, where his dedication earned him a bursary that allowed him to balance academics and rugby. He continued his development at Durbell Rugby Club, training even during holidays to stay at the top of his game. His rugby journey took him to the University of the Free State, where he was part of the FNB Varsity Cup squad, he embraced opportunities in the university’s 7s team. Later, he moved to Cape Peninsula University Technology for a postgraduate diploma in Business Process. Now playing in the FNB CPUT in Varsity Shield. “Plan A is to play rugby and go as far as I can to honour my God-given talent, otherwise, I’d like to work in my field of study and invest time in sports to help keep kids off the streets,” said Nodlayiya. “Coach Andries [from Durbell RFC] always pushed me to be better, think faster, and take control of the game.” Giving back to his community is a driving force in Ndinani’s life. He aims to create opportunities for young players, offering advice both on and off the field, recognising that many struggles happen outside the game. Inspired by Cheslin Kolbe, he envisions organising fundraisers and community initiatives. At CPUT, he has embraced a team culture that aligns with his mission-driven mindset. “It’s definitely contagious, very energetic. I think there’s a mission-driven culture which I can relate myself, where the boys and the inside management don’t let outside factors influence what going on inside.”   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Mihlali Maraule.

As one of the most experienced players on the FNB WSU team, Khanya Solani is determined to lead by example both on and off the field. Solani made his FNB Varsity Shield debut for FNB WSU in 2021 during the bio-bubble season, where they fell short in the final against FNB CPUT in Pretoria. Since then, he has become an essential part of the team, taking on various crucial roles, including mentoring younger players entering the system. ” I’ve always believed in leading from the front, and that’s what I have done with the FNB WSU team,” said Solani. “Treating everyone with respect on and off the field goes a long way and it's those types of relationships that I have built with my teammates. I try to inspire with my actions.” Solani is completing his Advanced Diploma in Sports Management, embodying the true spirit of a student athlete. He was the first graduate in his family and says merging rugby with academics has enabled him to perform at his best. “I’ve grown a lot since coming to university and I had to quickly understand why I was here, and the importance of me being here,” he said. “Being the first graduate from home made me realise it’s not just about rugby but also how I apply myself in the classroom.” Solani is eager to use his qualifications and skills in the field to create a better life for himself in the next phase. He intends on making the most of his time in the FNB Varsity Shield and believes the tournament has put his name in flashing lights. “I never thought I’d play in this competition when I first watched WSU in 2019 at Buffalo Stadium. Since then, I’ve played with people who have been scouted and given exposure because of the Varsity Shield." “You look at guys like Mihlali Mosi, Litha Nkula, Sibongile Novuka, there’s a lot of guys who have been exposed because of this tournament and I believe it will do the same for me.” Fixtures: HERE   Tickets: HERE   By: Avuyile Sawula

Robbie Fleck, the former Springbok centre and Western Province legend, has transitioned into a new phase of his career as the head coach of the FNB UCT Ikey’s FNB Varsity Cup rugby team. Fleck, who previously played for and coached the Stormers, took a break from coaching after his time in professional rugby, but he’s now found a renewed sense of passion for the game, thanks to the FNB Varsity Cup. The 49-year-old dynamic midfielder who represented the Green and Gold in 31 test matches from 1999 to 2002 has revealed how the Varsity Cup reignited his enthusiasm for coaching. “It’s been an incredible experience to come back into the coaching fold in such an exciting and competitive environment,” Fleck recently said in an interview on the Behind the Ruck podcast. “The Varsity Cup has a different energy, it’s a chance to develop young players, to see their growth and the hunger in their eyes. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some talented individuals who remind me of why I started coaching in the first place.” Fleck's experience in the FNB Varsity Cup is a departure from his time with professional teams, where the pressure of high expectations can often be overwhelming. “At the Varsity Cup level, it’s more about development, passion, and creating a culture. It’s not just about winning every week; it’s about growth,” Fleck emphasized. For the Ikey Tigers, Fleck brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership, combined with the excitement of a coach who is reenergized by the challenges and opportunities of the FNB Varsity Cup. His journey from Springbok legend to a coach nurturing the next generation of rugby talent is a testament to his enduring love for the game and the power of Varsity Cup rugby to inspire and shape young lives.   Fixtures: HERE   Tickets: HERE   By: Adnaan Mohamed

Emihle Zaza’s journey from rugby obscurity to a starring role in the FNB Varsity Shield for FNB Madibaz is one fit for the movies.   The dynamic wing left the dusty streets of rural Qonce behind and found his way through junior and club structures en route to establishing himself as a valuable member of the Mandela University outfit.   It was at the academic institution in Gqeberha where he rose from the lowly inter-res competition to the razmataz of the FNB Varsity Shield, where he made his debut in the opening-round loss against FNB Varsity College in Durban.   Zaza, a third-year marine engineering student who joined the res league shortly after arriving at the university in 2023, identified it as a crucial stepping stone in his journey to top-level rugby.   “I was fortunate. It kept me fit and focused because many players were dedicated to the sport,” said Zaza.   During that stint, the HP North Gods player faced many experienced opponents due to the competition’s no-age-limit policy. It was a tough assignment and “we had to learn quickly”.   His breakthrough came in the final of the Campus Life Festival sevens tournament when he scored a standout try in front of Madibaz coach David Manuel, who was out scouting for talent.   “That’s how I joined the rugby club,” he said.   “We were chasing the game and made some mistakes, but I was grateful for the opportunity..   “Playing in front of a full crowd was an incredible experience and I told myself that when the chance to start a game came, I would seize it.”   He did just that in FNB Madibaz’s next match against FNB UFH, where he beat multiple defenders on his way to scoring a crucial try in the team’s first win of the competition.   Zaza has become easily recognisable on the field thanks to his distinctive scrum cap, a garment not commonly used by backline players.   Despite having to initially overcome the language barrier, the Xhosa-speaking Zaza has grown in confidence in the Varsity Shield environment.   “I’ve become more assured in my abilities and understand that you have to back yourself on the field and learn from your mistakes,” he said.   “There are sacrifices to be made and I’ve learnt how to handle pressure while keeping the team’s success above individual goals.   “I know I’m a good finisher, but I’m also working on my kicking game and staying connected to our defensive systems.”   With his academics at the heart of everything he does, he believes “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard”.   Following victories over UKZN in Pietermaritzburg and log-leaders FNB UWC at home on Friday, the Madibaz have now won three of their four matches.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE     By: Jesica Slabbert

The 2025 FNB Varsity Cup Women's tournament is set to kick off on Friday, 14 March 2025 with FNB UFH entering as defending champions. All eyes will be on whether the Baby Blues can repeat their sensational performance from last season and win back-to-back titles or if a new champion will rise up and lift the coveted trophy. Let's take a look back at the 2024 season which showcased the growing prominence of women's rugby in South Africa, culminating in a thrilling finale that set the stage for an even more anticipated 2025 tournament. The opening round saw inaugural champions FNB Maties open their accounty with a decisive shut-out of the Impi while newcomers FNB UWC won on debut against the Orange Army in a closely contested match. Round 2 saw the Maroon Machine continue their dominant run by outplaying FNB Tuks while the Baby Blues scored a narrow two point win over FNB UJ in a thrilling encounter. The final round robin match ups saw both FNB UFH and the Stripe Generation put in commanding performances to cruise into the semi's. The playoffs were one sided as FNB Maties and FNB UFH easily advanced with decisive victories to set up a highly anticipated final between the two unbeaten powerhouses of the tournament. With FNB Maties yet to taste defeat since the start of the competition in 2023, the Baby Blues entered the final very much as the underdog and it was the Eastern Cape ladies who 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 for the opening try. FNB UFH went into the break 25-7 ahead, but consecutive tries by the Maroon Machine narrowed the gap to just 6 points.   Zintle Mkhokheli then dotted down for the Baby Blues before Elme Kruger secured her hat-trick for FNB Maties with five minutes to left play. It was however too late with FNB UFH triumphantly claiming the 2024 title.  The opening match of the 2025 tournament will be a repeat of last year's final where the 2024 champions FNB UFH will begin the defence of their title against 2023 champs FNB Maties and for the first time ever it will be broadcast live on SuperSport. Be there to find out who will lift the trophy in 2025! For a complete list of fixtures and updates check HERE .

With the FNB Varsity Cup is in full swing and the top university teams across the country competing for silverware, Lions head coach and University of Johannesburg alumnus, Ivan van Rooyen, highlights the importance of the tournament. Image via @lionsrugbyco on Instagram “It plays an integral part in not just our development but the South African development. Guys like Malcolm Marx and Jaco Kriel played both Varsity Cup and for us. Because of the laws, it has changed a little bit. It also gives them an opportunity to play in front of people and compete at a high level early in their careers,” said van Rooyen.    Van Rooyen also touched on how the FNB Varsity Cup has become younger, which benefits their selection process.   “I think the Varsity Cup has turned younger, which is good for us because we tend to select a little younger than some of the other teams. So, having Likhona Finca, for instance, as a 19-year-old last year playing for UJ and excelling, that allowed him to play for SA Under-20s,” he said.   When discussing what traits they look for in players, van Rooyen explained, “We look for guys who have energy around them and are keen to get involved. Guys who want to get the ball in hand and make good hits,” he added.    “Players who understand the pressure of the game and can execute under pressure. The higher the level of competition, the less time we have, so the quality players are those who can make better decisions under pressure. Varsity Cup is a big step up from schoolboy rugby, Under-19 rugby, or even Young Guns. It’s about seeing who can handle pressure and make the right decisions.”   “The difference between international rugby and Varsity Cup rugby is that it’s a lot quicker. It takes your time away from decision-making. We have a saying: ‘The Movie Is Too Quick,’ and I think you can see at Varsity Cup level who can adjust and who is ready.”   Van Rooyen also shared his excitement about seeing younger players develop.   “It’s exciting to see younger players expressing themselves. It almost feels like, because there’s a little less pressure, they can really get out of their shells, express themselves, have a go, and find their feet. It sets a platform for their future in senior rugby,” he concluded.     Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Karabo Peter