In a groundbreaking move set to redefine the sports and entertainment landscape, Mettlestate and Advent Sport Entertainment and Media (ASEM) proudly announce the launch of  Varsity Esports , South Africa’s premier university-level esports tournament. This thrilling initiative offers a dynamic platform for the nation’s top university esports teams to showcase their skills.   Barry Louzada, managing director and founder of Mettlestate says, “With esports rapidly becoming one of the fastest-growing industries globally – outpacing  traditional entertainment sectors like film and music – Varsity Esports bridges the gap between grassroots talent development and professional competition. This marks a pivotal step in giving esports athletes the same prestige and opportunities long afforded to traditional sports stars.”   Key highlights of Varsity Esports   Nationwide Participation : 25 universities will battle through rigorous USSA qualifiers, with the top 8 advancing to year-long tournaments. Epic Titles : Players will compete in three top-tier gaming titles, aiming for a share of the R90,000 prize pool. Grand Finale : The top two teams per title will go head-to-head in front of thousands of fans on the live stage at rAge Expo 2025 Comprehensive Visibility : From digital broadcasts to live events, Varsity Esports offers unmatched brand engagement opportunities across multiple platforms, including Twitch, SuperSport, and social media.   The year-long competition kicks off in March 2025 with Season 1, followed by Season 2 in July. The finals are scheduled for September, culminating in a live grand finale at the rAge Expo in November 2025.   A new era of sports   “We’re very excited about adding esports to the Varsity Sports brand,” says Marnus van Huyssteen, ASEM Corporate Head. “Varsity Esports taps into a vibrant audience aged 18-30, combining competitive spirit with cutting-edge entertainment. This initiative underscores our commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes while connecting brands to a market on the cusp of significant purchasing power.”   “Mettlestate invites brands to pioneer this new frontier in sports and youth culture. With exclusive sponsorship opportunities available, this is a chance to make a lasting impact on a passionate and engaged audience,” ends Louzada.   To follow all the action, come to rAge expo on 29 November – 1 December at the Johannesburg Expo Centre or on all Mettlestate social platforms. More details and tickets HERE .

In one of the most exciting finals since the start of the competition, UFS Kovsies beat UJ 58-55 in extra time at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein to be crowned the 2024 Varsity Netball champions. This is the fifth time Kovsies lifted the trophy while UJ were defeated for the second year running in the final. From the first whistle, UJ launched an aggressive attack, but it was the home team who scored first to load cheers from their supporters. The Orange Army soon gained their footing and levelled matters. It was Kovsies who held a slim 13-12 lead at the end of the first quarter.  The intense battle continued in the second quarter. While Kovsies barely retained their one-goal lead, UJ never lost confidence in their goal shooter, Muhluri Hlatshwayo. Hlatshwayo took a tumble just before the halftime whistle but was quickly up on her feet. At the halftime break, Kovsies still had their noses in front, 23-21.   The next 15 minutes were marked by utter concentration, with both teams looking to gain the upper hand. Every aspect was matched step by step with neither the Orange Army or Kovsies dominating any specific area. Once again, the home team clung to one-goal lead, 35-34.   With both power plays still on the table in the last quarter, it was going to come down to the wire. UJ took the lead during the first power play by taking their opponents out of their comfort zone, slowing the game down and making sure they retained ball possession. The last power play put both teams within striking distance of a win. With the crowd chanting “UFS, UFS, UFS” in the dying seconds of the game, Xandri Fourie equalised (47-47) to send the match into overtime. Nothing separated the two teams in the first seven minutes of extra time, with the scoreboard reading 51-51. It was in the final seven minutes of the pulsating affair that Kovsies finally kicked into the highest gear. Fuelled by their enthusiastic home supporters, they put the nail into the coffin (58-55) and were crowned champions for the fifth time. Quarter Scores:  13-12 | 23-21 | 35-34 | 47-47 | 58-55 (extra time) FNB Player of the Match:  Refiloe Nketsa (UFS Kovsies) FNB Player of the Tournament: Rolene Streutker (UFS Kovsies) Suzuki Player’s Player of the Tournament: Sunel Smit (NWU) UFS Kovsies: Liamé De Lange, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Megan Erasmus, Xandri Fourie, Elri Groenewald, Reratilwe Ke-Morena Letsoalo, Asanele Malgas, Owami Mohuli, Refiloe Nketsa, Rolene Streutker, Charné van Vuuren, Karla Victor. UJ: Alexandra Meimaris, Aphiwe Thusini, Boitumelo Mehloko, Cornelia Mupenda, Gugulethu Mdladla, Henlize Basson, Jade Niemand, Kamogelo Motsepe, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Tarle Mathe, Yanke Broodryk.

The UWC men's football team have followed in the boots of their female counterparts to be crowned Varsity Football 2024 champions. The Cape side scored a late eqauliser in the final minutes and claimed the title after a tense 8-7 win on penalties against NWU in a match that ended 1-1 after regulation time.  The game began with NWU on the front foot, dominating the first 10 minutes with strong ball control and aggressive play. Despite their early dominance, both teams struggled to find the back of the net. By the 30th minute, the game had become more balanced, with NWU maintaining a strong ball possession but unable to break through UWC's defense. The first half ended in a stalemate at 0-0.  The second half saw NWU continue to push for the lead, and their persistence paid off in the 48th minute. A well-taken corner resulted in a towering header by Momelezi  Mngati, putting NWU ahead 1-0.   As the match progressed, UWC began to find their rhythm, and in the 86th minute, Leandro De Sousa delivered a crucial equalizer. His powerful shot from outside the box on the left side left the NWU goalkeeper with no chance, levelling the score at 1-1. The late goal set up a nervy final few minutes, but despite five added minutes, neither side could find a winner, and the game went to penalties.  In the penalty shootout, both teams showed composure as the scores remained deadlocked after seven rounds. However, NWU's captain Olebogeng Moeti missed the crucial eighth penalty, allowing UWC to claim the title. UWC kept their nerve, scoring all of their penalties to secure an 8-7 victory and lift the trophy for the second time in their history.    Player that impressed:      UWC striker Leandro De Sousa was the standout player for UWC, delivering a game-changing performance in the 2024 Varsity Football final.   His crucial equalizer in the 86th minute brought UWC back into contention when they were trailing 1-0. With a powerful shot from outside the box on the left side, De Sousa showcased his skill and composure under pressure. His goal levelled the match and shifted momentum in UWC's favour, ultimately leading them to victory.   The lanky forward’s influence was instrumental in keeping UWC’s title hopes alive, making him a key figure in their championship triumph and duly winning the Suzuki Golden Boot award for ebing the torunament's top scorer.   Scorers:   NWU : Momelezi Mngati 47  UWC : Leandro De Sousa 87    FNB Player of the Match: Lesego Motsepe (NWU).    NWU : Ethan Mokwena, Olebogeng Moeti ©, Lucky Letwaba, Sousa Mathe, Lucas Seromo, Lesego Motsepe, Momelezi Mngati, Xolani Masethi, Ranonyane Mmutlane, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Pascual Tivane.     UWC:  Leandro De Sousa, Malinga Mdodana, Asibonge Maphumulo, Nkosingiphile Ncwane, Jadan Zeeman, Imaan January, Damian Overmeyer ©, Relebohile Matima, Leathan Croats, Khanya Dyani, Arnold Dube.

This Thursday, 26 September, the Varsity Football 2024 tournament will see NWU and UWC battle for glory and we find out who will be crowned champions and lift the trophy for a second time. Form wise they have both won their last two games, but the Eagles have only lost once this season and that was in the opening round to UFS. They avenged that loss by beating UFS 4-0 in the semi-finals. UWC come into the final as the only team to have beaten Tuks and it was away in both fixtures. NWU will host the final and no doubt have the home ground advantage with a packed out crowd expected at Mahikeng Stadium. Head-to-head stats: Not much seperating the two diski powerhouses with UWC scoring only one goal more, but the Eagles are a defensive wall conceding the least goals in the tournament and keeping the most clean sheets. On attack both will be looking to their charismatic top scorers Reatlegile Kgosithebe and Leandro De Sousa who are tied on 5 goals each, leading the way in the Suzuki Golden Boot race. They have each won the tournament once so expect a heated final where they will be on the hunt to duplicate the success they had in 2015 and 2019. Previous match-up: (round 2 on 1 Aug) In their round robin fixture it was NWU who travelled to Cape Town and picked up a crucial 0-1 win at the Operation Room. Despite both sides pushing hard in the opening half, the teams were deadlocked on 0-0 as the players headed into the lockerroom at the halftime break.  It was all NWU in the second half with the visitors playing with a lot more confidence and bravado while in contrasting style UWC held back and played a very defensive type of football. It was this fearless style of the NWU side that resulted in them being the first to get onto the scoreboard. The deadlock was finally broken in the 62nd minute when NWU scored through a well-worked effort in the midfield catching the UWC defence off guard. Momelezi Mngati fired the ball into the top right corner. It was a spirited effort from the home side in the final 15 minutes of the match, but it was all in vain as they remained goalless Coach and captains thoughts: NWU head coach Nkululeko Khwezilomso Malgas - “ In football, pressure is just part of it. The fans have been incredibly supportive, from our opening match when we lost to UFS. It’s been a journey, and we’ve felt their presence every step of the way." "It’s their opportunity to do something special in front of their home supporters. This is what we have been building towards, and now it’s time to deliver.” UWC captain Damian Overmeyer   - “ This is the time to show what we are made of. This season we have been inconsistent, but our mental strength has been strong. The work rate of the guys has been superb. You’ve seen in the semi finals match where we got a red card, we fought until the end. That is how strong the boys are mentally.” “It is exciting to be in the finals with such an exciting side NWU in their backyard. As players we will have to remember where we come from to achieve this. We have been to Mahikeng. We know the conditions. We know the environment and know the supporters would be fully behind them. But we will have to fight,” Don't miss the final live on SuperSport at 7pm. Tickets HERE .

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 12pm on Tues 24 September Winner will be announced after the final. With the Varsity Football 2024 final between the NWU Eagles and UWC fast approaching on Thursday, 26 September we cast our attention on the exceptional performers in this year's competition and vote for the FNB Player Of The Tournament 2024. We asked the coaches to nominate their top 3 players and now it's your turn to have your say on who should be awarded the top player accolade and a R10 000 cheque from FNB. We asked all eight head coaches of the teams playing in this years competition to nominate three players who impressed them the most excluding any player from their own team. The nomination process is weighted with first position worth three points, second position two points and third position one point. Once all the nominations were received the points were added up and these are the three players with the most total points. Voting is now open to the public whose votes will determine the overall winner. The public can cast their votes below from Tuesday, 17 September until 12pm on Tuesday 24 September. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on the 26 September. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 12pm on Tues 24 September Winner will be announced after the final. The nominees: Samukelo Ngodela: The Stripe Generation's number 3 was a key part of the Tuks success and getting them to the semi-finals though his ability to run off the ball and read the game well. He won most duels in the middle of the park and scored 3 crucial goals. Here's his goal against TUT. Leandro De Sousa:  Tied top goal scorer in the tournament with 5 to his name, UWC talisman De Sousa has been deadly in front of goal for the Cape side. A natural in the box with a nose for scoring. He's been a key part of the UWC succes for several seasons and the team will be looking to him to secure the title when they face NWU in the final on 26 September. Reatlegile Kgosithebe:  Tied as the tournament's top scorer with 5 goals so far the NWU Eagles target man played a pivotal role in securing both their semi-final spot by bagging a brace against DUT and then scored against UFS to book their spot in the final. His ability to position himself perfectly in the box allows him to finish off plays from the flanks, where NWU created most of their attacking opportunities.  Voting closes on Tuesday 24 September at noon. Book your tickets the men's football final on Thursday 26 September HERE .

In what was a must-win encounter, UP Tuks kept their title defence hopes alive when they came from behind to beat UJ in round 7 of the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein. They will now take on UFS Kovsies, who finished top of the log, in the second semi-final on Monday 23 September. The first semi-final will be contested between UJ and NWU who beat Maties to make it into the top four. Both semi-finals will take place in Bloemfontein.   UP TUKS 56  – 48 UJ      UP Tuks showed why they are the defending champions and came up with the goods when it mattered most by beating UJ to remain in contention for retaining their crown. It was UJ’s first defeat in this year’s tournament.     Tuks ignited the scoreboard in what was expected to be an explosive match. UJ responded by reminding their opponents why they were on top of the log. Tuks found motivation from their supporters who erupted with every positive move, matching the Orange Army’s faithful support team. The first quarter was fiercely contested with UJ narrowly leading by 12-11.     The next 15 minutes displayed brilliant defence from both sides, keeping the respective goal-shooters under pressure. UJ changed to attacking with shorter passes to retain possession of the ball. Tuks used the Power Play to close the gap and even edged ahead but UJ equalised just before half-time for the scoreboard to read 24-24.    Tuks started the second half of the game scoring a goal with the ball temporarily balancing on the rim. If ever there was a symbol of the knife-edge balancing act of this match, this was it. Neither of the teams gave each other an inch and each goal scored was answered by the opposing team. The nerve-wracking quarter ended with Tuks overtaking UJ to lead by 39-35.     The defending champions broke the tension in the last quarter by stretching their lead goal by goal. The Orange Army’s supporters asked their team to oblige and initially, they did.   Tuks however stayed calm, found the net more regularly and pulled of a sensational 56-48 win to keep their title hopes alive.      Quarter Scores:  11-12 | 24-24 | 39-35 | 56-48    FNB Player of the match:  Marichelle Visagie (UP Tuks)     UP Tuks: Alice Kennon, Caroline Paul, Kamogelo Maseko, Kylie van Wyk, Luca Keun, Marichelle Visagie, Melissa van Zyl, Milla Coetzee, Phophi Nematangari, Tinita van Dyk, Kyla Dames, Nonkcubeko Mjaliswa.    UJ: Alexandra Meimaris, Aphiwe Thusini, Boitumelo Mehloko, Cornelia Mupenda, Gugulethu Mdladla, Juanike Steinmann, Jade Niemand, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Tarle Mathe, Luyanda Msomi, Yanke Broodryk.       NWU 54 – 38 MATIES      It was an all-or-nothing affair between NWU and Maties, with the winner making sure they would progress to next week’s semi-finals. The Eagles managed to keep their composure and secured a vital victory.     Maties were first on the scoreboard, but NWU defended well and matched their opponents goal for goal. After the tenth minute, NWU broke by upping their defence even more and consequently, led 13-9 at the end of the first quarter.     In the second quarter, the Maroon Machine continued to battle their way through a staunch NWU defence. Frustration started to mount after the Eagles responded with a string of goals to expand their lead to 21-16 when the half-time whistle blew.    The difference was the all-important third quarter when NWU took full advantage of the Power Play and scored eight goals. The Maroon Machine simply had no answers with most of their efforts proving fruitless. The Eagles attacked the scoreboard with renewed vigour and ended the quarter on 41-24.     The last 15 minutes also started with a Power Play. Maties were reluctant to lose the ball but also continued the struggle to break through the Eagles’ defence in the goal circle. The goal-shooting reflected the composure of each team as Maties’ broken spirit resulted in missed opportunities while the Eagles’ efforts were successful in handing them a 54-38 victory.     Quarter Scores:  13-9 | 21-16 | 41-24 | 54-38    FNB Player of the match:  Sanmarie Visser (NWU)    NWU: Casey Davids, Jade Egwatu, Nadine Hefer, Martiné Jordaan, Jomari Lübbe, Kegaugetswe Mashilo, Amori Matthee, Tlotlang Mokomela, Nicola Oosthuizen, Sunel Smit, Sanmarie Visser, Johanne Meyer.    Maties: Adriana Carstens, Bianca Odendaal, Chrisley Marshall, Danielle van Nieuwenhuizen, Lize Rossouw, Michelle van der Merwe, Miriam Ndjadi, Renezia Andrews, Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Syntiche Kabuya, Lisa Ingwersen, Thabisa Yekani.     KOVSIES 112 – 9 TUT      Four-time champions UFS Kovsies entered the match brimming with confidence, knowing that they had secured a home semi-final. It showed in the end result of their drubbing of TUT.     The well-oiled Kovsies machine played at their own pace while at the same time making goals rain through the hoop. Goal-shooter and player of the match Rolene Streutker sunk goals from all positions inside the circle, ensuring her team had a 29-2 lead after the first 15 minutes.    With Kovsies mascot Felix dancing and bowing after each goal, it soon became apparent that he would have a pretty active workout. During the Power Play in the second quarter, the home team collected 10 points to the two of TUT. The half-time score was a massive 60-10.      Kovsies continued their near-flawless performance in the third quarter. TUT did manage to defend well on the odd occasion but the odds were clearly stacked against the Pretoria team. With a score of 84-15 at the end of the penultimate period of play, the 100 mark was within reach for Kovsies.      The home crowd stepped up their deafening cheers in the last 15 minutes and it spurred Kovsies on even further. The umpires’ whistles were inaudible through the crowd noise and vuvuzela chimes. The last Power Play pushed the Free State team over that 100-goal mark   and the former champions sealed an emphatic 112-9 victory over TUT.     Quarter Scores:  29-2 | 60-10 | 84-15 | 112-9 (10 goals deducted from TUT for failing to include a minimum of two players from the designated transformation group)        FNB Player of the match:  Rolene Streutker (UFS Kovsies)    UFS Kovsies: Liamé De Lange, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Megan Erasmus, Xandri Fourie, Elri Groenewald, Reratilwe Ke-Morena Letsoalo, Mienke Delport, Refiloe Nketsa, Nontobeko Mohuli, Rolene Streutker, Charné van Vuuren, Karla Victor.    TUT: Gomolemo Mashiane, Katleho Motaung, Modjadji Mokgehle, Naledi Makoa, Philile Bokwe, Keamogetswe Ngobeni, Oageng Motileng, Mosima Mamabolo, Desiree Mohlala, Thembalethu Buthelezi, Yolanda Makhubela, Whitney Tjie.   WITS 62 – 50 MADIBAZ      Wits left their best for last as the surprise package of this year’s tournament came from behind to beat Madibaz and record their second win.    It was toe-to-toe in the opening quarter of the match as the two teams matched each other equally. Madibaz captain Mothira Mohammad created scoring opportunities where there seemed not to be any. The team from the Eastern Cape outscored their opponents in the Power Play and went into the break 16-11 in the lead.     Wits showed better confidence coming into the second quarter and scored first. Madibaz responded and retained their lead going into half-time together with a five-goal buffer, 31-26.     A fiercely contested third quarter saw brilliant goals being scored at a steady pace. Wits surpassed Madibaz and took the lead for the first time in the match, with the scoreboard reading 45-40.      With a mere five goals separating the two teams in the final quarter, Wits threw it all in and extended their lead with the largest margin up to that point. Madibaz then made some changes and started to fight back. Their opponents however read the new strategy and countered exceptionally well.     In the home stretch, both teams upped their game, but it is Wits who walked away with a deserved 62-50 victory.     Quarter Scores:  16-11 | 26-31 | 45-40 | 62-50    FNB Player of the match:  Panashe Chiranga (Wits)     Wits: Alix Horn, Amy Horn, Elmarie Vusieka, Esther Botha, Giada Prinsloo, Liani Gilmour, Oratile Mokone, Panashe Chiranga, Philasandre Ntuli, Shani Mokken, Thandiwe Mokiti, Zanele Soviya.     Madibaz: Angel Mlambo, Anke Britz, Edon Snyman, Erin Hartland, Hanniska van Vuuren, Inganathi Sapepa, Kaylin Coetzer, Kelly du Toit, Mothira Mohammad, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Tashlyn van Schoor, Jeannique Rossouw.      Semi-final fixtures on 30 September HERE .

The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the North West University campaign who will host their sixth and final game of the season against UWC in the Varsity Football 2024 final in Mahikeng. The Eagles will be looking to return to the glory days of 2019 when they lifted the trophy for the first time. Coach Nkululeko Khwezilomso Malgas, who earlier in the season predicted NWU would host six matches, reflected on the journey leading to this moment. He acknowledged the importance of the support his team has received throughout the campaign.  “The crowd has been amazing, and I thought it would be unfair for us not to play the last two matches at home. Finals are tricky; you can’t read too much into previous results. They often go to the team that needs it the most, with a bit of luck,” said Malgas.   "We’ve done so much so far, but as you know, you’re never fully satisfied. There’s always more work to do.”  The pressure of playing a home final, with all eyes on both the coach and the team, is something Malgas accepts as part of the game.   “In football, pressure is just part of it. The fans have been incredibly supportive, from our opening match when we lost to UFS. It’s been a journey, and we’ve felt their presence every step of the way," he said.   UWC enters the final brimming with confidence, having outplayed UP-Tuks in the semifinals, and they have made it clear that they have their sights set on the trophy.   Malgas knows the challenge that awaits and respects the strength of his opponents.    "They are the only side that did a double over UP this season. You will underestimate them at your own peril. They have made some changes since we last played them during the group stages. They are a sleeping giant, hungry to repeat their 2015 success,” Malgas adds.   They are a very awkward side to play against, and we need to keep our belief and work extra hard. The focus has to be there throughout the match because they fight until the end.  "It’s their opportunity to do something special in front of their home supporters. This is what we have been building towards, and now it’s time to deliver,” he concluded.   By: Phenyo Mokgothu

Defending champions UP Tuks are on the verge of not qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament after their defeat in round 6 against UFS Kovsies at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein. They must beat log leaders and still undefeated UJ on Monday 23 September if they want to keep their hopes alive. Victories for NWU and Maties have pushed them into the top four on the log.  Here's how each of the round 6 games played out. UFS KOVSIES 67 – 49 UP TUKS      With high stakes in the last bumper weekend of this year’s tournament, both UFS Kovsies and UP Tuks took to the court with the intent to stamp their authority. The former champions from the Free State came out on top with the defending champions from Pretoria now relegated down the log.     Kovsies scored first and seemed unstoppable. Their defence restricted Tuks’ opportunities to score with the result shorter passes to ensure more ball possession. This just motivated the home team to up their intensity, giving them a 15-9 lead at the end of the first 15 minutes.     Tuks responded with the second quarter's first goal, and the contenders went toe to toe for a while. Added pressure by Kovsies then started causing the defending champions to commit unforced errors. The big difference came when Kovsies called the first Power Play and stretched the gap even further (three goals to one). At half-time, Kovsies had built up a healthy 38-21 lead.     Despite Tuks approaching the third quarter with visibly more aggression, Kovsies easily absorbed it and answered with more effective defence and accurate goal shooting. The visitor’s lack of scoring opportunities saw the scoreboard reading 52-32 at the end of the penultimate period of play    Fighting a 20-point deficit in the last 15 minutes, Tuks had a mountain to climb. But despite several replacements and outscoring their opponents by two goals, they simply could not match Kovsies’ ball-handling speed. The home team scored a well-deserved 67-49 victory in front of an enthusiastic crowd.      Quarter Scores:  15-9 | 38-21 | 52-32 | 67-49    FNB Player of the match:  Refiloe Nketsa (UFS Kovsies)    UFS Kovsies: Liamé De Lange, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Megan Erasmus, Xandri Fourie, Elri Groenewald, Reratilwe Ke-Morena Letsoalo, Mienke Delport, Refiloe Nketsa, Nontobeko Mohuli, Rolene Streutker, Charné van Vuuren, Karla Victor.    UP Tuks: Alice Kennon, Caroline Paul, Kamogelo Maseko, Kylie van Wyk, Luca Keun, Marichelle Visagie, Melissa van Zyl, Milla Coetzee, Phophi Nematangari, Tinita van Dyk, Kyla Dames, Nonkcubeko Mjaliswa.    UJ 53 – 22 TUT     It took a while but log leaders UJ eventually overcame a feisty TUT to remain on course for another semi-final spot for the second year in a row.     TUT pocket rocket Naledi Makoa was instrumental in the centre court with quick and decisive passes. UJ had a definite height advantage around the goal circle but TUT wasn’t going to make scoring at all easy. Their indecisiveness with ball possession however led to their undoing and the Orange Army were 12-5 in the lead at the end of the first quarter.      The Pretoria-based team came back, launching wide attacks and got on the scoreboard first in the second quarter. UJ however kicked into higher gear and used their height advantage to turn possession into goals. During the Power Play, the Orange Army scored twice and TUT only once. The half-time score was 32-14 in favour of UJ.     The third quarter released more energy from both teams which entertained the remaining spectators. TUT was on the attack while at the same time defending with more vigour and   winning over the crowd. They outscored UJ by one goal but were still trailing on the scoreboard 40-23.     The UJ magic returned in the final quarter and made scoring multiple goals in succession look easy. They seemed more relaxed, took more risks and pure enjoyment was plastered over their faces. TUT doubled UJ’s goals during the Power Play, but it was too little too late and the Orange Army walked away with a 53-22 victory.     Quarter Scores:  12-5 | 32-14 | 40-23 | 53-22 (10 goals deducted from TUT for failing to include a minimum of two players from the designated transformation group)       FNB Player of the match:  Alexandra Meimaris (UJ)    UJ: Alexandra Meimaris, Aphiwe Thusini, Boitumelo Mehloko, Cornelia Mupenda, Gugulethu Mdladla, Juanike Steinmann, Jade Niemand, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Tarle Mathe, Luyanda Msomi, Yanke Broodryk.     TUT: Gomolemo Mashiane, Katleho Motaung, Modjadji Mokgehle, Naledi Makoa, Philile Bokwe, Keamogetswe Ngobeni, Oageng Motileng, Mosima Mamabolo, Desiree Mohlala, Thembalethu Buthelezi, Yolanda Makhubela, Whitney Tjie.   NWU 54 – 39 WITS     NWU had to deal with a plucky Wits towards the end of their encounter, but the Eagles pulled through an important win in the latter stages of the match.    NWU started the match with a bang, attacking the circle with determination. At the other end of the court, defenders Sanmarie Visser and Martiné Jordaan defended their ring brilliantly, deterring most Wits scoring opportunities. Sunel Smit’s accurate shooting for the Eagles made sure her team were 17-6 in the lead after the first 15 minutes.      In the second quarter, NWU kept the scoreboard ticking while Wits’ most significant challenge came in the form of breaking through the Eagle defence in the goal circle. The Potchefstroom team went into the break still ahead on 28-14.      After the break, Giada Prinsloo started finding her goal-scoring rhythm for Wits. The Power Play was split even between the two teams with both collecting four points from two attempts. Wits stayed with their opponents, scoring just one less than the Eagles. The scoreboard was still in NWU’s favour though, 44-29.     NWU kept Wits at bay in the final 15 minutes despite the Johannesburg-based team matching them goal for goal and fighting until the end. The match came down to which team created the most scoring opportunities, and this belonged to the Eagles who beat Wits 54-39.     Quarter Scores:  17-6 | 28-14 | 44-29 | 54-39    FNB Player of the match: Sunel Smit (NWU)    NWU: Casey Davids, Jade Egwatu, Nadine Hefer, Martiné Jordaan, Jomari Lübbe, Kegaugetswe Mashilo, Amori Matthee, Tlotlang Mokomela, Nicola Oosthuizen, Sunel Smit, Sanmarie Visser, Johanne Meyer.     Wits: Alix Horn, Amy Horn, Elmarie Vusieka, Esther Botha, Giada Prinsloo, Liani Gilmour, Oratile Mokone, Panashe Chiranga, Philasandre Ntuli, Shani Mokken, Thandiwe Mokiti, Zanele Soviya.     MATIES 63 – 22 MADIBAZ     After a few jitters in the opening minutes of the match, Maties took control of play and put in a dominant performance to convincingly beat Madibaz.    At the start of the first quarter, it was Madibaz who shot goals with confidence and it took Maties a few attempts to equalize. The Maroon Machine then started turning up the pressure to create more opportunities and pulled ahead, ending the first 15 minutes with a score of 20-8.     In the second quarter, Maties’ defence overpowered Madibaz, limiting their opponents’ scoring options. Maties, on the other hand, capitalised on their opportunities, even if it took a few attempts. When the hooter sounded for half-time, Maties led 31-14.     After the break, the Maroon Machine returned with a more consistent scoring pace by dominating ball possession. Madibaz had bouts of attacking brilliance, but they were few and far apart. During the Power Play, Maties were able to score twice without a worthy response from the opposition. The scoreboard read 46-17.    The final 15 minutes were characterised by Madibaz being plagued by handling errors making it difficult to retain proper ball possession. Maties continued with their strong performance, creating enough opportunities to make sure of a comprehensive 63-22 victory.     Quarter Scores:  20-8 | 31-14 | 46-17 | 63-22     FNB Player of the match:  Syntiche Kabuya (Maties)     Maties: Adriana Carstens, Bianca Odendaal, Chrisley Marshall, Danielle van Nieuwenhuizen, Lize Rossouw, Michelle van der Merwe, Miriam Ndjadi, Renezia Andrews, Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Syntiche Kabuya, Lisa Ingwersen, Thabisa Yekani.     Madibaz: Angel Mlambo, Anke Britz, Edon Snyman, Erin Hartland, Hanniska van Vuuren, Inganathi Sapepa, Kaylin Coetzer, Kelly du Toit, Mothira Mohammad, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Tashlyn van Schoor, Jeannique Rossouw.      Round 7 fixtures on 23 September HERE .

If one had to pick a surprise package of the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament, it must surely be Wits. Only in their second year of Varsity Netball the Wities have made huge strides as was evident in their round 5 clinical 86-24 win over TUT and they have pushed more fancied opponents, like defending champions UP-Tuks and log leaders UJ with some excellent quarters.   The team’s growth has been incredible. Head coach Elsje Jordaan says it is all hard work and dedication.         “I’ve been really happy with what our squad has delivered, with a great improvement in our performances as a whole, managing to cut the margins compared to last year. I do feel we now need to be a little bit more consistent in our play and from there we will get better.”     Wits has a balanced but young squad with a handful of players who were still at school last year. This has seen a better return on performance, according to Jordaan.     “The squad has worked really hard, with our support staff also contributing a tremendous amount to making us a better team. We have a young squad, with eight first years in total, while five are in our travelling squad. We are excited about the future with our improved recruitment. I’m generally happy with the squad but we will certainly have to keep refining our recruitment process to keep getting better.”    Jordaan says the team's high-performance level is the difference this year.    “We’ve become better from a high-performance perspective, which has led us to massive growth, where we now have our players from last year gaining more experience. Our players have gotten more exposure at a high level, we’ve managed to cut the margins and just keep working (at it). This whole process has required us to be patient.”    Wits as an institution has grown in great strides in the netball space, which Jordaan is impressed with, especially with netball getting more popular amongst students.     “Wits has seen a massive growth, where we now have more quality players looking to join our club. We are also improving gradually, even knocking on the door in the top division of club netball. More recently, we just missed out by one point in gaining promotion into the top division, which is a reflection of the growth. So, netball at Wits is in a good place and we are excited about what is still coming.”    Jordaan credits the difference Varsity Netball has made to netball as a whole.     “Varsity Netball has been a great platform for the development of young players in a high-performance space. It’s allowed players to get exposure, recognition and quality coaching that has been an incredible benefit to youth development in netball.”    by S’fiso Nyawo

The 2024 Varsity Football final takes place next Thursday, with UWC travelling to Mahikeng to take on NWU. The Capetonians, whose hopes largely rest on the rejuvenated captain, Damian Overmeyer, have won the competition once in 2015 and have been losing semi-finalists on four occasions.  UWC have a score to settle having lost to the Eagles in the group stages and they were also runners up in last year's tournament losing on panalties to TUT. Moments after the final whistle blew in the semi finals match between UWC and UP-Tuks in Pretoria, UWC captain Overmeyer knew that a big task was ahead for his troops. The crucial goal by Relebohile Matima was enough to book the blue nation a spot in their second consecutive final.   The much-loved UWC captain has encouraged the team to celebrate the moment, but embrace the future.  He said the aim is to win the game first before celebrating. “It is exciting to be in the finals with such an exciting side NWU in their backyard. As players we will have to remember where we come from to achieve this. We have been to Mahikeng. We know the conditions. We know the environment and know the supporters would be fully behind them. But we will have to fight,” he said.  UWC is on course to give their managers and fans a fairy-tale ending to win the cup. The team have been unpredictable this season but managed to end up fourth in the robin stage before beating the favourites, Tuks to reach the finals.   “This is the time to show what we are made of. This season we have been inconsistent, but our mental strength has been strong. The work rate of the guys has been superb. You’ve seen in the semi finals match where we got a red card, we fought until the end. That is how strong the boys are mentally,” adds Overmeyer.  The final between NWU and UWC takes place at 7pm on Thursday 26 Septemeber. Get TICKETS HERE or watch in live on SuperSport.

Cape Town City midfielder Kamohelo Mokotjo has praised Varsity Football's efforts to better the standard of football in South Africa and calls on more stakeholders to get involved with the competition and work towards football development in the country.  Mokotjo, 33, believes with stronger support Varsity Football could do even more for South African youth development.    "You know talent can be found in so many different ways in South Africa. When it comes to spotting that talent you need initiative" says Mokotjo.    "So I think not only are companies like FNB doing a great job, but there should also be many other stakeholders that raise their hands to help. "We need people who will say, listen, we want to get involved. That will just grow football in the country."    The Free State-born player has made over 20 caps for Bafana Bafana and has recently returned to SA after playing for clubs like FC Twente, Brentford and FC Cincinnati in the USA to name a few. He spent the last season playing for Sekhukhune United before joining Cape Town City.     The midfield maestro knows first hand about the opportunities Varsity Football provides to those who come through it's ranks.   "My younger brother played for UFS a couple of seasons ago, I have watched him and know how good the tournament is," he said.    "I think it's a very important and amazing initiative. And you see we have Heaven Sereetsi here with us [at Cape Town City FC] which shows the work that's been done."    Fixtures  HERE            Tickets  HERE

With the last round-robin matches of the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament set to take place at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein on Sunday 22 September and Monday 23 September, UFS Kovsies are ready to dish up something special in front of their home crowd.    Traditionally packed to capacity, the venue’s electric atmosphere adds an extra layer of excitement for the team, says Spar Protea and assistant coach Karla Pretorius.    “The support we get from our fans is like having an eighth player on the court.”     Spar Protea captain and assistant coach Khanyisa Chawane, KC for short, agrees.    “There’s nothing like the energy from the crowd, it pushes us to give our best.”  Captain Refiloe Nketsa adds her voice to the chorus.    “It’s an honour to play in front of our home crowd. Their support means everything to us.”    Kovsies have one foot in the semi-final thanks to their position in the top four on the log. Not that they plan to lift their foot from the pedal, on the contrary, they thrive under pressure as the team believes it’s the fuel that drives them.     On the court, they’re not just playing to win, they are playing to build a lasting legacy. With a record of four Varsity Netball titles, former national coaches at the helm and a high-performance environment, the Kovsies are primed for another thrilling Varsity Netball campaign.  Pretorius says she is excited to watch the younger players rise to the occasion.    “I cannot wait to see what they achieve in the future.”    According to KC, this Kovsies team has the potential to make history with any of the players who could one day wear the Protea jersey.    On the tough environment they take to court, Pretorius says:    “Our athletes are motivated by pressure. We prepare them not just to handle it, but to thrive because of it. It’s not about avoiding pressure but using it to sharpen our focus.”    This takes a lot of training and on the UFS campus, every session is held in a high-performance environment. The training camps on campus take a holistic approach, mirroring the professional demands of national-level competition.     “It’s about passing the torch to the next generation, we want them to carry forward the legacy of Kovsie netball,” says KC.     Nketsa believes the team’s preparation goes beyond drills and strategies.     “Our training camps have been crucial in defining our purpose. The legacy of this team, combined with the guidance from our coaches, gives us immense confidence. Pressure isn’t something we fear, it’s something we embrace.”    All the UFS bumper fixtures HERE . by Jurgen Smith