Tuks confident they can beat NWU in Varsity Netball semi-final

After a slow start to the competition, UP-Tuks are determined to turn things up when they take on defending champions NWU Eagles in the first semi-final of Varsity Netball 2026 on Monday 21 September at the Rembrandt Hall in Pretoria (17:00).

Coach Amanda Mynhardt says they are looking forward to the opportunity, especially after going down by a single goal (59-60) in round 2 of this year’s competition.

“We always knew it was going to be tough playing against the top teams, and with NWU having the title, it adds to the pressure.  We want to use the opportunity, play a good game and be clinical. We also want to be solid in our structures and see if we can combine it all for this game. I think we are gaining momentum at the right time.”

The Stripe Generation are without a couple of their key players who are on national duty at the Africa Netball Cup in Nairobi, Kenya.

“We always had it in the back of our minds that we would lose national players. Fortunately, when you build a team, you also build depth and not in the competition, but months before that.  We had to be creative and build player versatility,” says Mynhardt.

Phophi Nematangari has taken over the leadership role and the seasoned wing defender says their preparations are going according to plan.

“The mood is positive for this new challenge we are about to face, knowing that the knockouts are a different ball game. Everyone becomes better because we’ve grown through the tournament. I am excited to see how everything will pan out.

“The last time we played NWU, we lost by just one goal, this after we had to close a nine-goal difference. It gives us confidence that we can do it, being able to close the gap and with the stakes given, I am excited to see how we can challenge the Eagles, so let’s go.

“We worked so hard throughout the year to play in this tournament, we need to enjoy it and play for each other.”

Fixtures HERE.

Tickets HERE. 

By Lehlogonolo Ditshego