FNB UKZN have history and rugby heritage in the province of KwaZulu-Natal as well as a culture of providing great leaders not just on the pitch but in life in general. Mthomboyolo Buzani is one of them and he sees the opportunity of being leader of the Impi team as a privilege. “Leading this group has been a privilege. We’ve been working towards the campaign since last October. We have gone through our trials and tribulations in terms of preparing and getting a squad camaraderie amongst us going as well,” said Buzani.   “Assuming the role and the responsibility was great as I was entrusted  to lead this group of men into this campaign of FNB Varsity Shield and it’s nothing but a privilege leading these guys.”   The Impi captain also praised the opportunity that comes with playing in a competition like the FNB Varsity Shield, pointing out that even though it is second tier to the premier division of FNB Varsity Cup, the gap in quality between these two is slowly being closed down.   “After the Madibaz game in Pietermaritzburg, I shared that the level of playing rugby in FNB Varsity Shield is no longer that far from the Varsity Cup. Keeping that standard and trying to work towards that standard shows the level of competition and the level of rugby in South Africa as a whole that at any given time anyone from either of these competitions can go out there and make it to the professional,” he said.   “We have seen so many examples in the past of this like Tino Mavesera, Kurt-Lee Arendse and also some of our guys from our side like Curwin Bosch, Marius Louw. They’ve gone out and they have made professional careers out of this competition.” said the flanker and Impi captain.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE     By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

FNB SPU affectionately known as the Gemmies, has embarked on a historic journey in the FNB Varsity Shield 2025, marking their inaugural appearance in this esteemed university rugby competition. Their path to the FNB Varsity Shield was paved with determination and resilience, culminating in a significant victory over the FNB TUT during a promotion-relegation match in August last year, where they edged out a 29-27 win. The Gemmies' qualification was not without challenges. Following their initial triumph over FNB TUT, a dispute arose concerning player eligibility, leading to a rematch. Demonstrating their prowess and commitment, FNB SPU secured their spot by defeating TUT once more with a close 20-17 scoreline in September. Under the guidance of head coach Jonathan Francke, a former Griquas player, the team has rapidly evolved. Despite many players joining as recently as early 2024, they have coalesced into a formidable unit, achieving in one year what was initially envisioned as a three-year development plan. Francke attributes their success to clear objectives and unwavering commitment.  "We set out objectives early on, and the players bought into the long-term vision,” said Francke. The Gemmies commenced this year’s FNB Varsity Shield campaign, with a thrilling 41-37 victory over FNB UKZN at Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley. The match was a seesaw battle, with SPU showcasing their attacking flair and defensive resilience. Notable performances included tries from players like Jan Potgieter and Leslie Ruiters, with Khanya Kama contributing crucial points from the tee. Currently in fifth place with 12 points, their strong start suggested a promising trajectory, but losing three matches dampened that climb. Francke acknowledges the missed opportunities. "We did not capitalize when we dominated certain aspects of the game. Consistency let us down, and rugby is an unforgiving game when you do not stick to the plan,” he said. “Despite some challenges, we trust that we made everyone proud. The positive we take away is that SPU and the Northern Cape have the talent to compete in a tough competition. "We want to challenge ourselves, play running rugby, and improve on areas like lineouts, mauls, and scrums. Hopefully, we can bring home another win for the Northern Cape," Francke concluded.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE     By: Danie Van Der Lith

“Just enjoy it and give it your all” – that’s the advice Griquas tighthead prop, Janu Botha, has for all FNB Varsity Cup players taking part in the 2025 campaign. Botha, also known as the ‘Scrummaging Chef’ is a seasoned professional now with over 50 caps for the Griquas – but his journey began in the FNB Varsity Cup, which ultimately changed the course of his life. He first started his FNB Varsity Cup journey with the Shimlas before shifting his focus to becoming a chef, a path he pursued for a couple of years. However, fate led him back onto the rugby field, this time in the colours of FNB CUT. It was at the Ixias where his life took a dramatic turn, setting him on the path to becoming a professional rugby player. That said, he still dreams of opening his own restaurant one day. “Getting back into the Varsity Cup system after being away from it for a few years and then getting the opportunity to play for the Ixias opened the door for me to become a professional rugby player – it completely changed my future,” said Botha. “To be honest, I had no intention of becoming a professional rugby player when I joined the Ixias. I did it purely for the enjoyment, and I think that would actually be my advice to players in the Varsity Cup today. “Just enjoy it and give it your all because you never know who's watching – it could lead to an opportunity for you to achieve bigger and better things.” While the Ixias have had a tough time on the field lately, suffering heavy back-to-back defeats against Maties and Tuks, Botha firmly believes the team will bounce back – because that's just the nature of playing for the Ixias. “On the Ixias front, I know they're struggling at the moment, but there's a lot of heart and fight in that team. It just takes a few small things to click into place, and I know they'll be able to pull off a few great victories in the coming games.” The Ixias' next game is on Monday against FNB Wits and kicks off at 19:00 at CUT Stadium.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

An extraordinary commitment to ball retention combined with loads of patience proved decisive in the FNB Madibaz’s dramatic victory over the FNB UWC in the FNB Varsity Shield rugby competition. Spurred on by a boisterous home crowd that packed out Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha, the Mandela University side did not relent as they edged their way across the field in the dying moments to set up the winning try.   Victory was eventually secured three minutes after the hooter as Sean van Zijl powered over to seal a memorable 27-24 triumph over the tournament log leaders.   Skipper Leon van der Merwe said the victory reflected the team’s growing confidence to compete at the highest level, especially having started the season with 10 debutants.   More importantly, he felt, was their ability to keep their composure during the high-pressure moments.   “It was fantastic to see the team staying calm under immense pressure,” said van der Merwe   “We knew that if we kept building phases, we could put their defence under pressure.”   The FNB Madibaz executed to perfection, working their way upfield from their own goal line through a series of penalties before van Zijl’s second try clinched the match for them.   “Once we got into their 22, we remained patient and eventually forced our way over. We stuck to our processes, built the phases and controlled possession exceptionally well,” he said.   “We knew we were underdogs but believed that we had a real chance if we capitalised on our opportunities.   “That belief only strengthened as we remained within one score of them throughout the game.”   While his young squad had to learn some tough lessons early on, van der Merwe noted that they had done a fine job in adapting to the demands of FNB Varsity Shield rugby.   “Many of our younger players transitioned from school rugby, and the leap to university rugby is significant,” he said.   “Since that opening loss to Varsity College, the team has matured and adjusted to the fast pace of varsity competition.”   Their victory over FNB UWC reinforced that the systems implemented by the coaching staff were working a charm.   “Varsity Shield is becoming more competitive each year as teams improve through enhanced coaching and player development,” van der Merwe explained.   “With greater investment in varsity rugby and increasingly strong opposition there are no easy matches. Every game demands our full focus.   “They thrive on loose play and bring relentless energy,” the Madibaz captain said.   “For us, efficient execution of our set pieces and maintaining possession through multiple phases will be key. If we allow easy turnovers, they will capitalise on them.”     Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE     By: Jesica Slabbert

FNB NWU Eagles strength and conditioning coach, Wolta “Tokkie” Mtsweni, plays an integral role in shaping the team’s performance. Behind the scenes, his expertise in training and player development ensures that the FNB NWU Eagles are physically prepared for the challenges in the FNB Varsity Cup.  Born in Millburg, Mpumalanga, Tokkie's first love was cricket. However, he transitioned to rugby boots. He played junior rugby for the University of Pretoria while studying sports science, laying the foundation for his career in strength and conditioning. “I fell in love with the concept of getting guys bigger, stronger, and faster. The scientific principles behind training fascinated me,” he said.  Now, two years into his role with the FNB Eagles, Tokkie is responsible for ensuring the players are in peak physical condition throughout the season. His experience at the University of Johannesburg, where he spent five years working with Varsity Cup Sevens and multiple sporting codes, has given him a well-rounded approach to training.  “We work closely with the biokineticist and physio to track trends—whether injuries stem from gym work, field sessions, or match contact. GPS monitoring helps us manage player loads, ensuring they hit the right metrics without overtraining.” Tokkie said.  Tokkie added that student-athletes in the FNB Varsity Cup face the challenge of balancing intense training schedules with their academic responsibilities. “During test weeks, we see players’ caffeine intake skyrocket, sleep patterns get disrupted, and recovery becomes more difficult… we can’t completely stop this, but we educate them on how to manage it better. “It’s a collective effort. Each coach—whether it’s the defense, forwards, or attacking coach—has specific goals. My role is to align conditioning with their tactical needs. For example, forwards need to build scrummaging strength, while backs focus on speed and agility.” While Wolta has already made an impact in FNB Varsity Cup rugby, he believes the real measure of success comes when players transition to the professional level. Fixtures: HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Lesiba Dikhoba

FNB Varsity Cup round 5 saw log leaders FNB Maties clutch a try at the death to beat historical rivals FNB UCT Ikeys by 31-24 while in Pretoria FNB UP-Tuks kept their hopes of hosting a semi-final alive by beating the FNB NWU Eagles. Defending champs FNB UFS added another win their campaign after winning the Bloem derby while FNB UJ painted Jozi orange after coming out tops against the Witsies. Here is our selection for the FNB Players That Impressed during round 5. Ezekiel Ngobeni (FNB Maties) The 20 year old Maroon Machine skipper collected his third FNB Player That Rocks award after scoring three tries that helped FNB Maties beat rivals FNB UCT and keep the Stellenbosch side at the top of the log. His leadership and sniping runs have been outstanding this season and a key part of their unbeaten run so far. Unfortunately the enigmatic scrumhalf left the field injured at the end of the game and could miss the rest of the season which would be a massive loss for the Maties. Kirwin du Preez (FNB UFS Shimlas) The fleet-footed winger scored the only try of the match in the Bloemfontein derby. He had several strong runs during the game and looked dangerous whenever he got the ball.   Roald Hattingh (FNB UP-Tuks) Roald produced a solid performance in FNB UP-Tuks’ emphatic victory over NWU Eagles. Hattingh was the enforcer of the day leading FNB UP-Tuks’ front row. FNB-Tuks had to defend for most of the encounter, Hattingh was the orchestrator securing the much-needed victory claiming the player of the match accolade in the process. “We had a meeting with the management of the institution, and we’re told never and never again shall we get relegated. We really took that to heart. All glory to God and I just try my best in all games, I didn’t play last week. I’m proud of the boys and their sacrifice we really worked hard for this game. We targeted this tough home game to put us on a high.”   Alzeadon Felix (FNB UJ) Alzeadon Felix was impressive in pulling the strings, linking well with his teammates and swiftly spotting space. He was good with his feet and knowing when to pin the opposition back with the boot. The SA Schools 2024 flyhalf is having a brilliant debut season.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE

The much-anticipated Cape derby went down to the wire in Stellenbosch and it was log leaders FNB Maties who clutched a try at the death to beat historical rivals FNB UCT in a thrilling FNB Varsity Cup clash. FNB UP-Tuks beat the FNB NWU Eagles to remain in contention for the playoffs while FNB UJ painted the city orange after upping the pressure in the second half against the Witsies to be crowned kings of Jozi. A rain soaked Bloem derby saw defending champs FNB UFS Shimlas dig deep and beat the Ixias in a low scoring affair. FNB Maties 31-24 FNB UCT Ikeys   The FNB Maties kept their flawless record intact with an exhilarating 31-24 victory over a determined FNB Ikey Tigers side in a gripping fourth-round FNB Varsity Cup showdown at the electric Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. The highly-anticipated Western Cape derby between the FNB Maties and the Ikeys was everything fans hoped for—and more! This was no ordinary rugby match. It was a fierce, high-octane battle between two bitter rivals, each side giving their all in a clash of rugby titans. The game unfolded like a heavyweight boxing match, with both teams relentlessly going toe-to-toe, refusing to back down. From the first whistle, it was clear: this was going to be a nail-biting contest of epic proportions. Coach Kabamba Floors’ Maties and Ikeys head honcho Robbie Fleck’s squads were evenly matched across the board. The Tigers led 24-17 at halftime, and it looked like the visitors might just pull off a shock upset. But then, enter Ezekiel Ngobeni, the Maties captain, who was simply unstoppable! The star player scored a brilliant hat-trick of tries to level the score at 24-all. Just when it seemed like he was about to take the game by the scruff of the neck with a fourth try, disaster struck—Ngobeni was forced to leave the field after picking up an injury. With the match hanging in the balance and time running out, the Maties found another gear, sending their home crowd into a frenzy. Big winger Grant De Jager exploded through the Ikey defense, powering over the line for the match-winning try. The conversion followed, and the Danie Craven Stadium erupted as the final score settled at 31-24 in favor of the home side. But the drama didn’t end there—aggressive lock Carel van der Merwe was a standout throughout the game, working tirelessly in the tight and loose exchanges. His bulldozing try was a fitting testament to his relentless energy, and he was deservedly named the Player that Rocks. The Maroon Machine continue their unbeaten streak, and this victory will surely go down as one of the most exciting derbies in recent memory.   SCORERS FNB Maties: 31 (17) Tries: Ezekiel Ngobeni (3), Gcina Puzi, Grand de Jager.   FNB UCT Ikeys: 24 (24) Tries: Duran Koevort, Xola Nyali, Sipho Dyonase   FNB Player that Rocks: Ezekiel Ngobeni (FNB Maties)   TEAMS FNB Maties: Prince Mulea, Armand Combrink, Herman Lubbe, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Gcina Puzi, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Ezekiel (C) Ngobeni, Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Grant De Jager, CJ Marx, Ryan Manuel, Joel Leotlela, Elridge Jack. FNB UCT Ikeys:  Matthew Beckett, Keagan Blanckenberg, Zachary Porthen, Enos Ndiao, Danio Botha, Siphomezo Dyonase, Connor Jack Gordon, Xola Nyali, Asad Moos, Alex Vermeulen, Ntokozo Makhaza, Luke Burger, Kian Davis, Rethabile Louw, Duran Rayn Koevort. FNB Wits 24-32 FNB UJ Johannesburg was painted orange on Monday evening when FNB UJ claimed an important 32-24 win over FNB Wits at the Wits Rugby Stadium. It was a crucial game for both teams, who were yet to secure a victory in this season’s campaign. The match was intense from the start, with FNB Wits drawing first blood through lock Thomas Beling inside the first three minutes, though the conversion attempt went astray. With the score at 5-0, the Orange Army had it all to do, and John Ford answered the call, breaking through from close range to level the score. Michail Damon converted his attempt to give his side a 7-5 lead. The next scoring action saw FNB Wits speedster Kevon Chirwa racing down the touchline to score a try, which some in the crowd thought was controversial. However, it stood, with the conversion attempt going wide again, leaving Wits with a slender 10-7 lead at the break. The second half saw a dominant display from FNB UJ, who came out firing. Too many errors from the home side let them down in crucial parts of the game. The visitors were able to run in four tries to the hosts’ two. FNB Wits once again struggled to withstand mauls close to their try line, with FNB UJ scoring two tries courtesy of Kamo Molefe. In the end, FNB UJ claimed the city’s bragging rights and possibly a position in next season’s FNB Varsity Cup. It’s back to the drawing board for the Witsies, who will need to perform well in their remaining fixtures to avoid possible relegation.   SCORERS FNB Wits: 24 (10) Tries: Thomas Beling, Joshua van Vreden, Kevon Chirwa, Thireque Apolles .   FNB UJ: 32 (7) Tries: Kamo Molefe (2), Ughan Africa, John Ford, Sifiso Dlamini.   FNB Player That Rocks: Michail Damon (UJ)   TEAMS  FNB Wits: Ricardo Brandao, Dagan Meuwese, Justin Amos, Sibusiso Shongwe, Thomas Beling, Hayden Munnery, Joshua van Vreden (VC), Thando Biyela, Christopher Kachungunu, Drew Bennet, Matthew Coetzee, Kevon Chirwa, Kamohelo Ncunca, Keith Chirwa, Lindani Dweba, Setshaba Mokoena (C). FNB UJ: Damian Baker, Ryan Marimo, Ali Gqaza, Neil Hansen, Siyemukela Ndlovu (C), Muzuva Gutu, Dylan Viljoen, Liam Rowan, Alzeadon Felix, Ughan Africa, John Ford, Adriano Jackson, Sifiso Dlamini, Michail Damon.   FNB UP-Tuks 26-17 FNB NWU Eagles   FNB UP-Tuks welcomed FNB NWU Eagles at the Tuks Stadium in an emphatic and mouthwatering encounter - as anticipated, the collision proved to be unpredictable. FNB NWU Eagles look strong on attack as they cornered FNB UP-Tuks in the early stages of the game dominating the first 10 minutes. With the relentless attack from the men from North West, Tuks were then reduced to 14-men Kobus Janse van Rensburg sent to the sin bin. With their backs against the wall, the Stripe Generation broke the deadlock in impressive transition rugby. The Pretoria outfit got a lineup in the middle of the park, relied on their strength and agility driving FNB NWU Eagles to their try-line. Stretched play from one end to another and finally got the break as Andile Myeni cuts in to open the scoring. JP Wentzel clinical with the boot secured maximum points. Wentzel added three more points on the board with a well-executed kick. The visitors finally registered points on the on the stroke of halftime. Tuks taking a 7-point lead at the break. The closely contested affair returned with the same energy as the Eagles returned with a try through Indiphile Tyeda to level the matters. FNB UP-Tuks cemented their dominance as Lilitha Matsiliza powered over the line to regain the lead. Wentzel missed a penalty with an opportunity to extend the lead. FNB NWU Eagles showed no signs of giving up with Tian van Zyl reduced the deficit to just two points at 19-17. Dewey Swartbooi’s troops proved to be too strong upfront as they registered another try from sensational forward play, Ruan van Blommestein dotting it down as Tuks held on to a 26-17 victory.   SCORERS FNB UP-Tuks : 26 (10) Tries: Andile Myeni, Lilitha Matsiliza, Ruan van Blommestein.   FNB NWU Eagles: 17 (3) Tries: Indiphile Tyeda, Tian van Zyl.   FNB Player that Rocks: Roald Hattingh (FNB UP-Tuks)   TEAMS FNB UP-Tuks: Mj Nel, Edwin Till, Jayd Austin, Roald Hattingh, Lilitha Matsiliza, Kamohelo Tlome, Haydn Kemp, Dillon Smith, Daimon Oconnell, Jp Wentzel, Andile Myeni, Keane Galant, Tharquinn Manuel, Munashe Dukuswa, Ambesa Zenzile. FNB NWU Eagles: Alethwa Buthelezi, Chyle Van Zyl, Ntobeko Shezi, Tsepo Tlaka, Stephan Krugel, Ricardo Fourie, Tian Van Zyl, Guhan Du Bois, Sanele Zungu, Stehan Heymans, Indiphile Tyeda, Nico Liversage, Matthew Fortuin, Naiden Jaarts, Luan Van Der Walt.   FNB UFS Shimlas 16-9 FNB CUT   The UFS Shimlas returned to winning ways in the FNB Varsity Cup on Monday with a hard-fought 16-9 victory over the FNB CUT Ixias in the Bloemfontein derby. It certainly wasn’t the prettiest of wins for the defending champions, but at this stage of the competition, every point is worth its weight in gold. The eagerly anticipated derby was delayed by nearly an hour due to lightning in the vicinity of Shimla Park, but the welcome rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the supporters, who turned out in their numbers. Despite the wet conditions, both teams opted for an attacking approach from the outset, resulting in plenty of turnover ball. The Shimlas, in particular, left several points on the park, squandering scoring opportunities from set-pieces near the Ixias tryline. The deadlock was finally broken in the 17th minute when FNB Shimlas flyhalf Bradley Giddy slotted a long-range penalty, despite the slippery underfoot conditions. However, he had two further attempts at goal, both unsuccessful, leaving the score at 3-0 at halftime. The rain eased in the second half, improving the playing conditions slightly, but errors remained a factor. Ixias opened their account through a Matthys Malan penalty to level matters, but Shimlas responded with a sensational try from Kirwin du Preez—the only one of the match. Giddy kept FNB Shimlas ahead with two more penalties, while Malan slotted two late three-pointers in pursuit of a bonus point for Ixias. Ultimately, the FNB Shimlas did enough to claim the bragging rights and secure four valuable points.   SCORERS FNB UFS Shimlas: 16 (3) Tries: Kirwin du Preez   FNB CUT: 9 (0)   FNB Player that Rocks: Bradley Giddy (FNB Shimlas)   TEAMS FNB Shimlas: Wynand Botha, Kirwin du Preez, Nkoka Ngobe (captain), Alwich van der Linde, Lilitha Lunqe, Bradley Giddy, Hlumelo Klaas, Maynard Kleynhans, Liam Shamburg, Fano Linde, Sandile Nzuza, Reinier Viljoen, Ben Pitout, Juanre Breitenbach, Ntokozo Hlope. FNB CUT: Devinto Vergotine, Rorisang Masoeu, Zachery Bester, Liam Prinsloo, Clive Hartzenberg, Matthys Malan, Raydon Swartbooi, Francois Bester (captain), Helgard Bruwer, JT Van Der Walt, Kevin Strydom, Asekho Marubelela, Sisipho Nofuya, Tokelo Ntaopane, Mamello Moshoaliba.     FNB Maties 31-24 FNB UCT Ikeys   The FNB Maties kept their flawless record intact with an exhilarating 31-24 victory over a determined FNB Ikey Tigers side in a gripping fourth-round FNB Varsity Cup showdown at the electric Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. The highly-anticipated Western Cape derby between the FNB Maties and the Ikeys was everything fans hoped for—and more! This was no ordinary rugby match. It was a fierce, high-octane battle between two bitter rivals, each side giving their all in a clash of rugby titans. The game unfolded like a heavyweight boxing match, with both teams relentlessly going toe-to-toe, refusing to back down. From the first whistle, it was clear: this was going to be a nail-biting contest of epic proportions. Coach Kabamba Floors’ Maties and Ikeys head honcho Robbie Fleck’s squads were evenly matched across the board. The Tigers led 24-17 at halftime, and it looked like the visitors might just pull off a shock upset. But then, enter Ezekiel Ngobeni, the Maties captain, who was simply unstoppable! The star player scored a brilliant hat-trick of tries to level the score at 24-all. Just when it seemed like he was about to take the game by the scruff of the neck with a fourth try, disaster struck—Ngobeni was forced to leave the field after picking up an injury. With the match hanging in the balance and time running out, the Maties found another gear, sending their home crowd into a frenzy. Big winger Grant De Jager exploded through the Ikey defense, powering over the line for the match-winning try. The conversion followed, and the Danie Craven Stadium erupted as the final score settled at 31-24 in favor of the home side. But the drama didn’t end there—aggressive lock Carel van der Merwe was a standout throughout the game, working tirelessly in the tight and loose exchanges. His bulldozing try was a fitting testament to his relentless energy, and he was deservedly named the Player that Rocks. What a game! The Maties continue their unbeaten streak, and this victory will surely go down as one of the most exciting derbies in recent memory.   SCORERS FNB Maties: 31 (17) Tries: Ezekiel Ngobeni (3), Gcina Puzi, Grand de Jager.   FNB UCT Ikeys: 24 (24) Tries: Duran Koevort, Xola Nyali, Sipho Dyonase   FNB Player that Rocks: Ezekiel Ngobeni (FNB Maties)   TEAMS FNB Maties: Prince Mulea, Armand Combrink, Herman Lubbe, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Gcina Puzi, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Ezekiel (C) Ngobeni, Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Grant De Jager, CJ Marx, Ryan Manuel, Joel Leotlela, Elridge Jack. FNB UCT Ikeys:  Matthew Beckett, Keagan Blanckenberg, Zachary Porthen, Enos Ndiao, Danio Botha, Siphomezo Dyonase, Connor Jack Gordon, Xola Nyali, Asad Moos, Alex Vermeulen, Ntokozo Makhaza, Luke Burger, Kian Davis, Rethabile Louw, Duran Rayn Koevort.

Former FNB Varsity Cup player Handré Pollard, who recently signed with the Vodacom Bulls, will become the highest paid player in the history of South African rugby. The 31-year-old Springbok flyhalf, is one of the most notable players to have emerged from the FNB UP-Tuks rugby program, having played in the 2013 FNB Varsity Cup winning team. Pollard's journey from FNB Varsity Cup rugby to becoming a key player in the Springboks’ 2019 and 2023 back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in Japan and France respectively highlights the crucial role that the tournament has played in developing future rugby stars. Pollard, known for his composure under pressure and exceptional kicking skills, credits the FNB Varsity Cup for helping him grow as a player.  “The Varsity Cup was a key part of my development. It was a competitive environment that helped me grow as a player and prepared me for the rigors of international rugby,” shared Pollard. His rise to international stardom culminated in his recent signing with the Vodacom Bulls, where he will become the highest-paid player in South African rugby history. FNB UP-Tuks has also produced other standout players who have gone on to achieve international success. Notable among them is Springbok lock Marvin Orie, who was part of the 2013 Varsity Cup-winning team. Orie’s leadership and tough playing style contributed to the Springboks’ success, and he credits the FNB Varsity Cup with shaping his discipline and work ethic. Reflecting on the experience, Orie, who now plies his trade in France. “The Varsity Cup was a stepping-stone for me. It not only gave me the platform to showcase my skills but also allowed me to grow as a player and person, paving the way for my professional career,” said Orie. Similarly, Franco Mostert, a graduate of UP-Tuks, played an integral role in South Africa’s 2019 World Cup campaign. The Bok lock known for his high work-rate.   “Playing in the Varsity Cup was a stepping-stone to my career. It provided a solid foundation for my development into a Springbok.” These players’ journeys from FNB UP-Tuks to World Cup glory highlight the importance of university rugby as a platform for nurturing and developing future international stars.   Fixtures:  HERE   Tickets:  HERE   By: Adnaan Mohamed.

Round 5 of FNB Varsity Shield had the tournament showing who is hungrier for glory as the campaign passed the halfway mark. FNB Varsity College defeated log leaders FNB CPUT 40-17 to climb to the top of the summit. FNB UWC’s 44-31 win over FNB UKZN saw them securing the second spot on the log standings. The Gemmies broke hearts in Alice as they snatched a late 39-33 victory over the Blues at Davidson Stadium while FNB Madibaz cruised past FNB WSU at Sisa Dukashe Stadium. Here is our selection for standout players from round 5.   Jaiden Faviers (FNB SPU) In a close dramatic encounter between FNB UFH and FNB SPU, Jaiden Faviers put in a superb display as he stunned the hosts in their home turf, breaking the hearts of University of Fort Hare fans in the dying moments to hand his side their second win of the campaign with his two crucial tries. Leachim Adams (FNB UWC) Leachim Adams is a pocked rocket in the mould of Cheslin Kolbe or Kurt-lee Arendse. The dynamic winger can beat defenders in the smallest amount of space and has the acceleration to go around any defender. He is also a deadly finisher, exhibited with his two tries against FNB UKZN.   Edward Sigauke (FNB Varsity College) FNB Varsity College’s standout player in the upset win over log leaders FNB CPUT was no doubt Edward Sigauke. He impressed with his attacking runs and defensive efforts, keeping the Blue Wave under pressure. With his two tries in Bellville, Sigauke was instrumental as he led his team to an away victory and top of the log.   Raashied Conrad (FNB Madibaz) The FNB Madibaz flyhalf Raashied Conrad was arguably the most influential player for Madibaz and controlled the tempo of the game. He was accurate with his boot, converted four tries, and led the attack admirably. For his performance, he was also named the FNB Player That Rocks. Who else should we be keeping an eye on?

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