On-form striker Kgahlisho Kgomoeswana has been one of the stars in the Mavuti team after bagging two FNB Player of the Match awards and a late brace in VUT’s 4-1 demolition of newcomers, DUT. As one of the standout players, the Mavuti danger man has shared his feelings on this and how he deals with the stardom while mentioning what he hopes to achieve from that.   “I am just glad that I can help the team where I can. I am glad that I get recognition and would like to use that to improve myself,” he said.   The VUT man who is currently pursuing a qualification in law has shown that he is not just exceptional on the pitch, but also behind the desk as well, further highlighting how football has opened many doors for him.   “I am studying labour law because I love the law. Football has brought me many big moments that are countless and I would like to play professionally. Actually I need to play professional (football)” Kgomoeswana added.   The forward player buried three defenders for the goal securing his brace against DUT, taking his total tally to four goals in the tournament so far.   The VUT man’s performance and statistics have proved more than once how much of a menace the forward is to opposition teams as well as the potential that star has to get more opportunities in the future.   Kgomoeswana concluded by revealing the routine before any match before he gets to the field of play.   “I pray to the almighty and try to eat well every time before the match” he concluded.    Fixtures  HERE        Tickets HERE    By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

TUT is gearing up for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament filled with determination and a hunger to succeed. With a mix of fresh talent and experienced leadership, the Pretoria-based team is poised to make their mark on the competition. Coach Emily Mathosa has set clear expectations for her team this season - to compete fiercely against some of the best players in the country. "All they have to do is focus on themselves, stay consistent throughout the tournament.” Preparation for the season has been intense and well-coordinated. Mathosa says she is confident in the team's readiness, noting that "preparation is going very well, and they have been training together as a team to ensure that everyone gets to understand what is expected of them on court." This year, TUT's roster is brimming with new talent, with 90 percent of the players making their debut in Varsity Netball. Among these newcomers, a few standouts are expected to make a significant impact. Mathosa is particularly excited to see how Naledi Makoa, Yolanda Makhubela, Gomolemo Mashiane and Keamogetswe Ngobeni will perform on the big stage, as they bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to the team. Leadership will be a crucial component of TUT's strategy, and the team will be captained by two players in Keamogetswe Ngobeni and Desiree Mohlala. Mathosa says they were chosen for their ability to lead both on and off the court. "Though it’s Kea's debut to play in Varsity Netball, she played in the Telkom Netball League this year. Desiree has Varsity Netball experience, so I believe they understand what is expected of them on and off court. They will be able to guide the entire team.” Varsity Netball is more than just a tournament, it’s a vital platform for showcasing emerging talent and serving as a breeding ground for the national team. "Varsity Netball is one of the pathways where we get to see new talent that we don’t see in other national events of Netball South Africa," according to Mathosa. TUT is first up against defending champions UP-Tuks on Sunday 1 September at 17:00. For a full fixture list, click HERE .  PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Modjadji Mokgehle, Keamogetswe Ngobeni, Gomolemo Mashiane, Philile Bokwe, Naledi Makoa, Fhulufelo Nenzhelele, Katleho Motaung, Nokwanda Mbuyazi, Thembalethu Buthelezi, Nosibusiso Khwela, Bianca Nkalanga, Oageng Motileng, Mohlala Desiree, Yolanda Makhubela, Anele Kwaphuma, Mosima Mamabolo.

CUT's football team has made peace with the fact that reaching semi-finals of the 2024 Varsity Football is out of reach and this will help with the pressure in their young and inexperienced squad. The Bloemfontein side are currently bottom of the log with two games to play before the play-offs. CUT have a couple of games left in the competition, and while they realise that making the knockout rounds is a bridge too far, they can build on their experience against TUT and UFS, and even lift themselves off the bottom of the log with a few good performances. Midfielder Pogisho Dikole, who is one of just three senior players in the squad and has enjoyed a few good performances himself, said their lack of experience is a reason for the string of poor results, but the only way to gain it is through playing. “This year we've got the smallest squad ever and a lot of youngsters,” said Pogisho Dokole. “Last year we didn't do well because we were playing as individuals, while this season we are lacking in experience. These guys are young, but I'm sure that they will improve and hopefully they will get better going forward. Experience is the big difference between the team we had last year and now. “Secondly, we're starting off the games on the back foot, I don't know why, but the opposition comes straight at us. Starting on the back foot doesn't work for us and we need to be more aggressive from the get-go.” Dokole added that the competition is not done-and-dusted yet, and they want to end on a high. “Having said that, I still believe in my team and I'm sure we will get a win. We don't have to get into the top four, but we can improve on our log position.” Fixtures  HERE         Tickets  HERE

Former Ajax Cape Town striker Nathan Paulse has applauded the work and role Varsity Football is doing to South African football.  Paulse, 42, has also called for Varsity Football to be made a part of the football pathway in the country. "Varsity Football is doing a lot more for South African football than we may realise and it's continuing to show by the players it produces," said Paulse.   Retired in 2017 after making over 70 appearances for the Urban Warriors and recently was the Assistant Coach of Cape Town Spurs.  He spoke about the importance of the competition and how it could be made better.   "How we can improve it, I would say look at how we can make it a mandatory part of the pathway so let's say should players not go on to become full-time professionals with an ABC Motsepe Foundation or a PSL club, then look at how we can involve the SAB league, ABC Motsepe leagues with Varsity Football. "It could be a structure and foundation where players have to go and do a course. It can be any course that they are taking as long as they are improving their intellect.     "So it's doing amazing work and already I know quite a number of players who have been scouted.  Paulse believes the journey and role of Varsity Football are huge and is continuing to produce good-quality players and that cannot be ignored.    "What it has produced is remarkable, I think the one that springs to mind the most for me is just in fact that Thabo Mnyamane, he was at Tuks, also a SuperSport United, and he got scouted," he said.   "And now, I believe he's been roped into SAFA as an analyst. Now, look at that as an example. The story of a player who is intelligent, and articulate, had a dual career as a pro player, started at Varsity Football.     "He has a career still in the game that he loves and it's an affluent role. It's not a role where he has to go and beg and he has to, you know what I'm saying. So Varsity Football has given him that grounding, much more than just playing, but also as a person."

The University of Johannesburg is gearing up for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament with a clear sense of determination.  Under the guidance of coach Bongi Msomi UJ is not just aiming to compete, but to make a significant impact on the court. The Orange Army had a brilliant 2023 season and made it all the way to the final where they were narrowly beaten by UP-Tuks in the dying moments of added time. When asked about the team's expectations for the upcoming season, Msomi was straightforward: “To play good and exciting netball and, of course, to win.”    UJ's preparations for the tournament are well underway, and the mood in the camp is one of excitement, says Msomi.   “The team is excited about the Varsity Netball tournament, as always.”   UJ boasts a roster filled with talent, making it difficult for Msomi to single out just one player to watch. She did however highlight several new faces who will be making their Varsity Netball debut this season and who are expected to bring fresh energy and skill to the team: Gugulethu Mdladla, Luyanda Msomi, Alex Meimaris, Jade Niemand, Kamogelo Motsepe, Chariske van der Spoel, Juanike Steinmann, Aphiwe Thusini, and Keneilwe Seopa.   Cornelia Mupenda will serve as captain with Henlize Basson taking on the role of vice-captain.   For Msomi, Varsity Netball is more than just another competition, it’s a critical platform for showcasing talent and paving the way to national team selection.   “It’s very important! With all games broadcasted, the players not only have a reference of their games but have an opportunity of being scouted or identified at a top level,” she explained. The tournament serves as a key step towards national recognition for both players and coaches in South Africa, underscoring its significance in the country's netball landscape.  UJ will begin their 2024 Varsity Netball campaign against Maties on Sunday 1 September at 15:00. For a full fixture list, click HERE .   PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change):  Boitumelo Mahloko, Chariska van der Spoel, Yanke Broodryk, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Cornelia Mupenda, Kamogelo Motsepe, Luyanda Msomi, Keneilwe Seopa, Gugulethu Mdladla, Alexandra Meimaris, Henlize Basson, Aphiwe Thusini, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Tarle Mathe, Juanike Steinmann, Jade Niemand.

Momelezi Mngati has emerged as a vital player in NWU's football success, delivering crucial goals and consistent performances that have driven the team forward in the Varsity Football season. His contributions on the field highlight his importance to the squad and reflect his dedication and growth as a player. Mngati scored the winning goal in NWU's clash with UWC and added a goal in a round-five match against CUT. Growing up, Mngati was a mischievous boy who frequently got into fights with his peers and siblings. "I used to lose many of the fights because I wasn't that good physically," he recalls. It was his elder brother who saw potential in him and introduced him to one of his coaches, which led to Mngati joining Zola Park FC. Encouraged by his two elder brothers, Mngati began to take football seriously. They motivated him and emphasized the importance of prayer and discipline, which became the foundation of his football career. "They usually pray for me, wish me luck, and even come to my games around Joburg. Their support means the world to me," he shares. Mngati's football journey has seen both success and challenges. He started playing for Zola Juventus in the LFA Gauteng league in 2016, moving through various teams before joining NWU Soccer Institute in the second round of the 2023/24 season. Along the way, he faced obstacles, including cultural differences and attempts by teammates to undermine his discipline. "There were plenty of challenges along the way, some players didn't like how disciplined I was. They wanted to see me drunk and take pictures to send to the coaches so I could be left out of the squad. But I refused to give in. I overcome those challenges by praying and talking to a close friend in the team." On the field, Mngati excels in the false 9 position, where he feels most comfortable. His strengths include protecting the ball, winning duels, and running into half-spaces. However, he acknowledges the need to improve his defensive recovery. "Playing for the institution means a lot to me, and I am grateful for it. It’s a rare opportunity, and I feel blessed to be part of this project."   Fixtures HERE        Tickets  HERE      By: Phenyo Mokgothu

The 2024 Varsity Football has reached its business end, and the teams are fighting hard to ensure they are able to advance to the knockout rounds by securing a spot in the semi-finals.  The UFS Men’s are feeling the pressure as while they have been putting in some really good performances, the goals aren't forthcoming and this has seen them having to fight hard for a semi-finals berth.  The biggest issue with the Blues at the minute is that their finishing has proven to be their Achilles Heel. A plethora of chances are being created week-in, week-out, but they are unable to find the back of the net.  While UFS are still in for a very realistic chance of making the semi-finals, a full complement of six points collectively against UWC and CUT in the coming weeks will just about ensure this.  The coach, Tebogo Motsamai, admitted that their finishing hasn’t been up to scratch, this has enjoyed a lot of attention, albeit they have made a step-up this week.  “You've hit the nail on the head, the only thing we are struggling with is our finishing,” said Motsamai.  “We’re creating a lot of chances, but we aren't scoring. We are addressing it in our training sessions by emphasising and working on a lot of finishing exercises. This week we've spent even more time on it, and the players are looking forward to playing against and rectifying their mistakes.”  Motsamai also pointed out that when the team travels, they tend to play a lot better, and he feels this is because they gel as a team.  “Another thing that I've noticed is that we are playing better when we are away from home. The mood tends to be better because the players realise that as only 25 will travel and they need to gel and do everything as a team.”    Fixtures  HERE          Tickets  HERE

With the new Spar Protea captain Khanyisa Chawane and vice-captain Karla Pretorius as part of their coaching set-up, it is no wonder that UFS Kovsies coach Burta de Kock is thrilled about the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament.   She has expressed her confidence in her team’s preparation on and off the court for the tournament they have won four times, with back-to-back titles in 2013 in 2014.     “Our preparations went exactly as planned. This is thanks to the meticulous management of our players and the hard work we've put in. We’re fortunate to have Karla (Pretorius) leading our defence and KC (Chawane) boosting our attack. Every day’s goals were met, and we’re now eagerly anticipating the 2024 season.”    De Kock emphasises that the Kovsies' strategy is to approach every match with the intensity of a final.     “Each player brings something unique to the court. We have Refiloe Nketsa, a Protea player, commanding the centre, and Rolene Streutker, a Protea goal shooter, returning from Australia. Karla Victor, who play for SA U/21, strengthens our centre. Then there’s Reratilwe Letsoalo, who was voted best wing defence by spectators at the Telkom Netball League, and Xandri Fourie, who shined as goal attack in Fast Five. Also never discount the brilliant Liamé de Lange. With so many experienced players, our core group of 16 is set to make a big impact this season.”    UFS Kovsies will get the 2024 Varsity Netball underway when they take to the court against Wits at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg on Sunday 1 September at 13:00. For a full fixture list, click HERE.      PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Liamé de Lange, Karla Victor, Megan Erasmus, Elri  Groenewald, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Demi-Leigh de Jager, Xandri Fourie, Sheneca Smith, Asanele Malgas, Rolene Streutker, Charne van Vuuren, Leah Winter, Lethabo Sehlapelo, Thando Mokoena, Refiloe Nketsa, Mienke Delport.    by Jurgen Smith

Hailing from the township of Mayflower in Mpumalanga, Nhlakanipho Ngwenya has already had a season to remember in his first year playing for DUT Men’s Football as the team from the coast debuts in the Varsity Football competition.  The Durban based side held defending champs TUT to a one-all draw in round 5 with Ngwenya scoring the equaliser. New kids on the block, DUT, have not had the campaign they were hoping for on in their first season of the #iyachesa campaign and this is mostly due to their shyness in the box having scored just two goals, the joint fewest goals at this stage.      Both of these goals so far have been from one man and that is the 20-year-old skillful winger Ngwenya, with the first one being a thing of beauty and a strong contender for the best goal in the tournament so far.      The DUT midfielder scored an amazing goal from out wide, a shot which many question if it was intended to be a cross in the area or a direct attempt at goal. The young player however has come out confidently to make it clear that it was a shot at goal and that it was something he has worked on quite extensively in practice.      “I was scoring, I don't want to lie. I saw the goalkeeper coming forward and I told myself that let me go to the second pole and lucky enough I scored. I have been practicing these shots for the past weeks,” said Ngwenya.      In just his first year in the university, Ngwenya realizes that he has impressed many with his skills as well as his eye for goal adding that he is not having it as easy as it seems.      “I came here and impressed them during the Freshers cup as I am a first year and truly speaking the rest became history.     “I don't want to lie, it has been very tough for everyone and the reason for that is because things are not happening the way we have planned for the tournament” he said.      Idolizing Thembinkosi Lorch, Ngwenya is clear that football is all he desires and hopes for greener pastures in the future.      “Given a chance to choose between anything and football, I will always choose football and I'm one of the players hoping to get a pro contract after the tournament,” he added.      Fixtures HERE      Tickets HERE         By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

Round 5 of the 2024 Varsity Men’s Football was even better than the previous round with dramatic events occurring as UWC climbed to the top of the log standings after defeating UP-Tuks 2-1 in Pretoria. The NWU Eagles also soared to the top of the summit after a 3-0 win over CUT to spice up things in the competition while VUT and UFS shared the spoils in Bloem. Defending champs TUT remain winless after being held to a draw by newcomers DUT.   Here is our selection for the FNB Players That Impressed the most. Molemo Kukame (NWU).     Man of the Match accolade was awarded to Molemo Kukame who scored a brace and helped his team beat CUT at home. His brace took NWU to the third position on the summit levelling with points with UWC and UP-Tuks.   "I am feeling happy about this game, we did well as a team, and I am thrilled that I contributed to the team's vital points on the night. I managed to score two goals. We wanted to work hard as a team and fight for each other."  Siyabonga Nombewu  (VUT)   Despite his small stature, Siyabonga Nombewu, was a giant for VUT in their 1-1 away draw to UFS in Bloemfontein. The Chemical Engineering student showed good pace, his distribution was excellent, and he was a trojan in defence with some good tackles on much larger and more physical opponents.  “It was a very tough game, and they were very hard on us. We just needed to relax and focus on the game. When we did this, we created more chances, but we couldn’t convert. The plan was to start fast and finish strong.”  Thuso Mlamla (TUT)   TUT skipper Thuso Mlamla put in a man-of-the-match performance against DUT but just couldn’t get the all-important win that could’ve put them in with a shout for qualification. However, after the 1-all draw, the inspirational captain, Mlamla said this to us after his performance. Mlamla will be looking to help the team play for pride in their remaining two matches of this year’s edition with qualification hopes to the semifinals seemingly all but gone.      “I am happy with my performance but disappointed with the result and unfortunately this is my last varsity (football) tournament because I can’t play anymore due to age.  It’s difficult to accept my good performance when the team didn’t win and get the points we really needed, nonetheless, I’m happy I did well”    Leathan Croats (UWC).     UWC got a first UWC win at Tuks Stadium in a victory that puts them to 10 points. Croats played an integral role in keeping UWC in front and securing a vital win with his penalty save in 85th minute.    “At that moment a lot was going on in my mind, but me and Tshepiso played together in the CUCSA and he told me he never changed his corner. So when I saw it was him stepping for the second one I knew I would save it. I told the boys before the game that I was willing to die on the field, so everything I wanted to fight for it and be at my best. Today we’re history makers as the first UWC team to win at Tuks.”    Fixtures  HERE     Tickets  HERE

The first whistle is almost set to blow for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament with the opening bumper weekend (1-2 September 2024) taking place at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg. Wits captain Panashe Chiranga says they are rearing to go in front of their home crowd in what will only their second campaign. “We are looking to improve on our maiden experience in 2023 and placing higher on the log, showcasing a high calibre of play in our game, and to do so consistently throughout the tournament.”   Chiranga has been impressed with the way the team preparations have gone so far, with the team also possessing more versatility this year. “We’ve seen training intensity and frequency increasing in preparation for the tournament. It's been tough but necessary to get the team focused and committed to the goal ahead.”   The Wits team, coached by the experienced former Protea captain and coach Elsje Jordaan, will be fighting to do better than last season, which has meant they’ve had to bolster their squad to improve their chances.   “We have several debutants, namely Oratile Mokone, Zanele Soviya, Philasande Ntuli, Elmarie Vusieke and Daniella Monyepao who have joined the Wits family, having represented their various schools and provinces last year. I’m excited for their introduction into the Varsity Netball scene,” says Chiranga.   The Wits skipper also shared her feelings on the impact Varsity Netball has had in the country, with an added message for the rest of the teams in this year’s competition.   “Varsity Netball has a massive impact because it provides playing opportunities for the student athletes that are of a semi-professional level, offering development for the TNL (Telkom Netball League) and feeding into the national set-ups.   “And lastly, I think the netball community should have their eyes fixated on the Wits team this year because we are coming in hot!”   Wits will get the 2024 Varsity Netball underway when they take to the court against UFS Kovsies at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg on Sunday 1 September at 13:00. For a full fixture list, click HERE.     PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Panashe Chiranga, Esther Botha, Oratile Mokone, Zanele Soviya, Philasande Ntuli, Daniella Monyepao, Amy Horn, Alix Horn, Shani Mokken, Kagisho Itholeng, Elmarie Vusieke, Liani Gilmour, Giada Prinsloo, Thato Booi, Tshiamo Mokgosi, Thandiwe Mokiti.     by S’fiso Nyawo

Senior Madibaz players Mothira Mohammad and Siya Dingiswayo are eager to make their final Varsity Netball fling a memorable one.   They have been named co-captains for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament which kicks off on Sunday 1 September at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg.   At 25 years of age, Mohammad will no longer qualify for the age-restricted competition next year, while 23-year-old Dingiswayo is finishing up her studies.   “It has been an incredible journey at Madibaz,” Mohammad, who is a long-time member of the institution’s high-performance programme, says. “I am very grateful.    “One of the lessons that I have learnt is to never let pressure get to you. When you do feel a bit of stress, stay calm and do the basics well. I’ve realised that it is more beneficial not to overthink on court and to trust the skills and abilities you have worked on.”   Mohammad says she looks forward to managing her troops alongside Dingiswayo, whom she describes as a vibrant leader and good communicator on defence.   Dingiswayo agrees.   “I feel that our different personalities will work hand-in-hand to benefit the team.”   It is Dingiswayo’s third Varsity Netball tournament and she confesses to it being a “proper learning curve” that has taught her more than just excelling at netball.   “It’s been a privilege to play for Madibaz because my game and character have grown during this time. Besides progressing in life-related matters, I have learnt how to read the game better and improved my communication on court.”   Even with a plan in place, Dingiswayo feels they need to be prepared for all eventualities.   “If the plan you are given does not work out, it is how you adapt to the situation that will set you apart from the rest. My mind-set is that when the going gets tough, I’m going to be tougher.”   Madibaz will face North-West University, University of Johannesburg and UP-Tuks during the opening weekend of Varsity Netball.   The first match of the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament for Madibaz is against NWU on Sunday 1 September at 19:00 at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg. For a full fixture list, click HERE.   PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Kaylin Coetzer, Anke Britz, Mothira Mohammad, Hanniska van Vuuren, Edon Snyman, Erin Hartland, Inganathi Sapepa, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Kelly du Toit, Jeannique Rossouw, Tashlyn van Schoor, Bronwyn Goosen, Angel Mlambo, Nicole Lister, Singwa Murhombo, Balungile Mgoqi.