NWU Eagles ready to defend Varsity Netball crown

The NWU Eagles enter Varsity Netball 2026 with a target firmly on their backs after producing a memorable comeback to defeat UFS Kovsies 57-49 in last year's final. The victory delivered NWU their third Varsity Netball title and their first championship since 2016.

For head coach Elsunet du Plessis, lifting the trophy was the culmination of months of work from everyone involved with the team.

"Winning the Varsity Netball title was an incredibly special moment for our players, staff and the entire NWU community. It was the reward for months of hard work, resilience and belief in one another."

While NWU return as champions, the Eagles have approached their preparations with the emphasis firmly on improvement rather than simply trying to defend what they achieved in 2025.

"Every season presents a new challenge, and we know that last year's success doesn't guarantee anything," Du Plessis says.

"We've prepared with intensity and purpose, focusing on continuous improvement rather than defending a title."

That mindset will be particularly important as NWU attempt to navigate another demanding Varsity Netball campaign. For the players, representing the university comes with a strong sense of pride and responsibility.

"Our players are proud to represent NWU and understand the responsibility that comes with wearing this dress," says Du Plessis.

The team's expectations are equally clear: compete with courage, consistency and humility while giving themselves the best possible opportunity to challenge for the championship once again.

"Fans can expect a team that competes with passion, energy and determination," says Du Plessis.

"We want to embrace every challenge and showcase the resilience and fighting spirit that have become part of the NWU identity."

While the champions retain the experience of players who know what it takes to perform on the Varsity Netball stage, there will also be plenty of new faces looking to make their mark.

Du Plessis says around half of this year's squad is new to the Varsity Netball environment, creating a fresh dynamic within the team.

"The blend of experienced players and exciting new talent has created a competitive group, and we're looking forward to seeing them showcase their talents throughout the tournament."

For the NWU Eagles, 2026 is therefore about more than defending a trophy. It is an opportunity to build on the foundation laid by last year's championship team, introduce a new generation of players to the Varsity Netball stage and prove that the Eagles belong at the top of university netball.

NWU Provisional Squad:

Sunel Smit, Andrya Joubert, Njabulo Hlope, Jaime Matfield, Euane Theart, Amori Matthee, Rayvoné Leander, Christi-Marie Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Makgoshi Magoshoa, Liane van Lochem, Amia Roux, Reze Coetzer, Lethabo Komane.

Fixtures HERE.

Tickets HERE.