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One of the promising young goalkeepers in the Varsity Football tournament, Zubeir Mohamed, is enjoying a standout campaign between the sticks for the University of the Western Cape (UWC). Mohamed has already kept two clean sheets, an impressive achievement in a tournament renowned for its fierce competition and high-quality football. The Cape-born shot-stopper has embraced the challenge with both hands, describing the tournament as an invaluable experience and a platform to express himself, showcase his talent and grow as a goalkeeper. Taking over as UWC’s first-choice goalkeeper has not been an easy task, especially after succeeding the much-loved Leathan Croats, who left big gloves to fill. “It feels good to be UWC’s first-choice keeper for the Varsity Football tournament. I’ve learnt a lot during my time when Leathan was first choice. Leathan was an amazing goalkeeper who set the standard very high, which pushes me to work hard and keep the standard up there,” said Mohamed. But his development has not only been shaped by Croats. Mohamed also credits former and current UWC players for helping him settle into the team and find his feet. “When I first joined the team, the former players welcomed me and made me feel at home. They always guided me to do the right thing,” he said. Now, Mohamed has his sights firmly set on team success. He believes UWC have what it takes to go all the way in this year’s tournament and add another star to the university’s jersey. “We want to go all the way, add another star to our jersey and leave a legacy at the university,” he said. With confidence growing and two clean sheets already under his belt, Mohamed will be eager to keep the momentum going as UWC chase their Varsity Football dream. UWC’s next challenge comes at home against Durban University of Technology (DUT) at 18:30. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Phiri Cawe

University of Johannesburg (UJ) left-back Koketso Mathidza says his love for football is deeply rooted in his upbringing, with the sport forming an important part of his life from a young age. Mathidza has quickly settled into life at UJ, with the welcoming environment allowing him to feel comfortable and express himself on the pitch. "The atmosphere has been very good. The people here at UJ have been very welcoming. As soon as I got here, I just felt at home. I think it allowed me to enhance my performance and play to the best of my abilities,” said Mathidza. The defender's passion for the game began during his primary school years. "I started playing football in primary. I think I was under nine. I was eight years old, I just come from a background where football is loved,” he said. That passion runs deep in his family, with his father having played for Dalmanian Chiefs back at home in Limpopo. "Even at home, we have a club associated with our family. It's called Dalmanian Chiefs - it's a club my dad played for." "I just come from a background of football and I think that's what made me enjoy football." Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Collen N. Maepa

UP-Tuks are busy gearing up for an exciting campaign in the Varsity Netball 2026 competition. The Stripe Generation return with a rejuvenated squad after seeing through the 2025 campaign without a number of their key players due to the Youth World Cup. Head coach Amanda Mynhardt is motivated and says that her side is ready to compete, highlighting the importance of players competing in various tournaments and the wealth of experience they bring to Varsity Netball. “We are happy with where we are in terms of preparations at the moment, for us it is about bringing our players together who have been part of different campaigns. “We need to try and get points this time around. Last year we had a tough time not having all our players available due to the Youth World Cup. We need to get enough points to get us into the semis.” The Pretoria outfit are looking to make the finals for the first time in three years and ultimately win it, having last won it in 2023. They are coming in with newly formed leadership as Kyla Dames will lead Mynhardt’s troops in this campaign as the captain. “We have new faces in the team and also players making a return, the likes of Phophi Nematangari, Kamogelo Maseko and we are excited to see what the future holds for them. Kyla Dames has been great with us, taking the armband from Caroline Paul,” says Mynhardt. UP-Tuks will take on defending champions NWU in their opening game. “For us, it is not a lot to lose, considering we did not do well last year. It will be great to measure ourselves against those (top teams), just to see where we are and what areas to improve. “We all play to win, we know where we want to achieve, but we are realistic and know what it takes to be the best. If we take care of the smaller things, the big things will happen. To be the best, you need to show up all the time but also have the discipline throughout the campaign,” concluded Mynhardt. UP-Tuks Provisional Squad: Arette Burger, Anke van Rensburg, Jade Atkins, Jamie Williamson, Kamogelo Maseko, Kayla Venancio, Kathleen Taljaard, Khanya Ngema, Kiara van Eeden, Kimberley Amiras, Kyla Dames, Kristi Koekemoer, Lente Kroukamp, Luca Keun, Minette Boshoff, Nonnie Mjaliswe, Phophi Nematangari, Skyla Eley. Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.

Driven by the thunderous chants of a passionate home crowd at the UJ Soweto Stadium, UJ put on a masterclass in attacking football, dismantling UP-Tuks 5-0 to claim the 2026 Varsity Football Women crown. From the opening whistle, the Orange Army seized complete control of the match, orchestrating a relentless offensive storm that overwhelmed the visitors in a heavily one-sided opening half. The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when star striker Mpho Dlamini latched onto a sublime feed from captain Sthembile Sandleni just outside the penalty area, driving a crisp, low strike into the bottom-right corner past UP-Tuks goalkeeper Akani Maluleke. With midfielder Lindelwa Mabuza pulling the strings in the center of the park, UJ stretched play across both flanks, pinning Tuks deep inside their own half. The pressure paid off again in the 23rd minute when Dlamini turned provider, whipping a pinpoint cross from the left flank for Mabuza to tap home and double the lead. Just four minutes later, UJ delivered a crushing third blow. Kabelo Mokoena exchanged swift passes with Sthembile Msomi inside the box before slotting the ball home in the 27th minute to build a comfortable 3-0 cushion. Tuks attempted to spark a revival through winger Sizakele Khumalo on the right wing, but UJ defender Angel Musazi swiftly neutralized the threat, keeping the Pretoria side at bay heading into the break. UJ returned for the second half with the same insatiable appetite for goals. Early in the second period, Kamogelo Maponya broke down the right flank and picked out Sbongakonke Mzobe inside the box; Mzobe struck a fine shot into the bottom-right corner, beyond the outstretched arms of a heavily tested Maluleke. Despite the mounting scoreline, UP-Tuks maintained their defensive composure, but UJ’s blistering pace proved impossible to contain. Maponya delivered yet another sharp ball from the right wing, finding Mabuza, who made no mistake in completing her brace and sealing an emphatic 5-0 victory. The dominant performance caps off a remarkable tournament run for UJ, crowning them undisputed champions on home soil. SCORERS: UJ: (3) 5 Mpho Dlamini, Lindelwa Mabuza X2, Kabelo Mokoena, Sbongakonke Mzobe UP-Tuks: 0 FNB Player of the Match: Lindelwa Mabuza (UJ) SportPesa Goal Rush Award: Mpho Dlamini (UJ) FNB Player of the Tournament: Sibongile Ntoane (TUT) Suzuki Golden Boot: Lindelwa Mabuza (UJ) TEAMS: UJ: Matshidiso Masebe, Kabelo Mokoena, Kutlwano Maphane, Angel Munasi, Sthembile Msomi, Sthembile Sandleni, Nhlakanipho Moyo, Lindelwa Mabuza, Mpho Dlamini, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Ayanda Mnyembane. UP-TUKS: Akani Maluleke, Liyema Dyeli, Sizakele Khumalo, Palesa Hlangwane, Thobile Mtsweni, Mmarita Malatji, Dakarai Zhoya, S’bahle Ndlovu, Shannan Williams, Nthabiseng Mazoeu, Ibanathi Msindo.

Maties are eager to get their Varsity Netball 2026 campaign underway, with the historic milestone of 100 years of Maties Netball adding extra significance to the season. After a demanding preparation period, Maties head coach Sasha-Lee Petersen believes her players are ready to embrace the challenge and represent the university with pride. "We are incredibly excited to finally get the tournament underway. A lot of hard work goes into preparing for Varsity Netball and there is always excitement leading up to this tournament. The players have invested countless hours on and off the court and I know they are eager for the opportunity to compete and represent Maties.” For Petersen, one of the biggest positives from the build-up has been the commitment shown by her squad, particularly as the players juggle their academic responsibilities alongside the demands of high-level sport. "Balancing the demands of being a student-athlete is never easy, particularly during a busy academic period, yet the players have consistently shown up with a willingness to learn, improve and challenge themselves. "They have embraced the process, held each other accountable and created an environment where everyone is working towards a common goal." The coach also understands the significance of Varsity Netball, having experienced the competition from both sides of the court. Petersen believes the tournament provides players with an opportunity to test themselves against some of the country's best university teams while creating lasting memories. "Varsity Netball is one of the best competitions in university sport and provides a unique platform for student-athletes to showcase their talent. For our players, it is an opportunity to represent your university and play at home in front of your home crowd. "The atmosphere, the crowds and the opportunity to compete at such a high level create memories that last a lifetime. It is a competition that challenges you, develops you and brings people together through a shared passion for the game." With expectations building ahead of Sunday's opening fixture, Petersen says supporters can expect a team that embodies the values of the Maties programme. "We want to play a style of netball that reflects who we are as Maties – disciplined, connected, resilient and hardworking. We have a group of players who are committed to each other and to the dress they represent. While results are important, we want supporters to see a team that fights for every ball, embraces every challenge and leaves everything on the court. We hope to make our Maties family very proud." Maties Provisional Squad: Iselle Acker, Suhani Ahuja, Lara Ehlers, Cara Els, Lisa Ingwersen, Hannah Kriel, Chris-Marie Marx, Giselle Maritz, Kristen McGregor, Vinah Mokgatle, Miriam Ndjadi, Zahrah Noah, Bianca Odendaal, Lize Rossouw, Ovayo Sibelekwana, Thabisa Yekani. Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE. By: Ayanda Frances Felem

DUT left-back Nkululeko Nkosi is determined to turn disappointment into motivation when his side travels to face UWC at the UWC Stadium on Friday in the Varsity Football tournament. Nkosi had an opportunity to level the contest against UJ from the penalty spot in the 83rd minute last week, but was unable to convert as DUT suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat. Reflecting on the setback, Nkosi says the experience has only strengthened his resolve ahead of their next challenge. "Games like this (UJ) helps us to grow, and unfortunately I miss the penalty and then we ended up losing the game,” said Nkosi. “Round one I scored and against UJ I have missed, this part of football - but I had to push, this is football. I have good teammates, brothers who encouraged me and gave me strength." With DUT looking to bounce back against UWC, Nkosi remains appreciative of the lessons Varsity Football continues to provide. "I enjoy playing Varsity Football, this game helps us grow, we learn a lot from it." Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

Wits produced an impressive attacking display against UL last week, with Mxolisi Mthiya, Tebogo Masemola and Thato Putswane all finding the back of the net in a commanding 3-0 victory. The result was made even more impressive by a solid defensive showing, as Wits kept a clean sheet to secure all three points. The side now sits in second position on the log, with UJ in first on a perfect two-match win streak. Still riding the high of their 3-0 win, captain of the Wits captain, Kwgadi Molepo spoke on the team’s dominant win over UL, the defensive structures and conversations, and how valuable debutants have been in the team so far. “So, this week we were more, I would say, encouraged and motivated to give our all because our friends are around us. So, winning comfortable at home was very good,” the captain. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Khomotso Makgabutlane

The University of Limpopo’s 2026 Varsity Football campaign may have got off to a difficult start, but the Limpopo outfit remains determined to turn things around. UL suffered a 2-0 defeat to DUT in their opener before falling to a 3-0 loss against Wits, leaving them without a point or a goal from their first two matches. Despite the disappointing results, the side will be hoping to draw on its resilience and respond strongly in the matches ahead. However, head coach Lesetja Dukes Laka believes the results do not tell the full story. “The team's overall performance has been positive irrespective of the results. We have managed to create clearer goalscoring opportunities than both opponents,” said Laka. For UL, the challenge has been turning opportunities into goals and eliminating costly individual errors. The coaching staff are now focusing on finishing, defensive organisation, communication, transitions and decision-making as UL look to respond in their remaining matches. Laka’s immediate target is simple, which is to win the next game and keep a clean sheet. There is still plenty of reason for optimism, with this same UL group having already proven its quality by overcoming strong opposition at the USSA Championships to earn their place in Varsity Football. “This is the group that beat these teams at USSAs to qualify for Varsity Football 2026,” he said. The road to redemption starts now. Two matches may have passed without reward, but UL’s belief remains intact and their fight is far from over. UL’s next kick-off will be against the University of Johannesburg at UJ Soweto stadium (18:30) Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lebogang Mathaba

UP-Tuks midfielder Sinalo Nyawose is relishing the challenge of Friday’s Tshwane derby against TUT as the Stripe Generation look to return to winning ways in Varsity Football. Nyawose says he will approach the encounter with confidence while remaining focused on his own performance rather than the opposition. "Going to every encounter, brave, fearless. Not worried about the opponent, just worried about my performance - so we go again this week at the Tshwane derby”, said Nyawose. The midfielder also expressed his appreciation for the trust shown by his coach after being handed valuable minutes in the competition. "The coach just said, hey, he's going to trust me for this game. when I have 100% trust and confidence in the coach's belief, I do what I have to do on the field. I was very happy and excited to finally get some minutes in the Varsity Football. Nyawose believes the support of Tuks’ senior players has also helped newcomers settle into the pressure of Varsity Football. UP-Tuks will travel to face TUT in the Tshwane derby on Friday, with kick-off scheduled for 19:15 at Tuks Stadium. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Round Two of the 2026 Varsity Football tournament delivered plenty of drama, with TUT making a statement by edging defending champions UFS 1-0 in Bloemfontein to claim their first points of the campaign. The result leaves the Kovsies searching for answers after suffering back-to-back home defeats. UWC also bounced back from their opening-round draw, securing a valuable 1-0 away win over UP-Tuks, while Wits got their campaign firmly on track with a victory over UL, condemning the Limpopo outfit to their second loss. UJ rounded off a strong round of results, collecting maximum points at Harry Gwala Stadium. Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches. Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ): Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza stood out for UJ with a composed and influential performance in the heart of the Orange Army midfield to earn the FNB Player of the Match award. Operating as the pivot, Mkhonza played a crucial role in breaking up the opposition’s attacks and disrupting their rhythm, while also showing quality in possession. His ability to win back the ball and quickly transition UJ into attack helped create important opportunities, making him a key figure in the team’s performance. Zubeir Mohamed (UWC): UWC clinched a narrow 1-0 over high flying UP-Tuks, the Western Cape outfit had to fight had to fight till the end to maintain their lead. Tuks threw everything they had against UWC with relentless attack, but UWC kept the Stripe Generation at bay thanks to the outstanding Zubeir Mohamed in goal. Tebogo Masemola (Wits) Tebogo Masemola impressed the most for his composure in the attack. He was able to put the ball away for his team to double their lead in the start of the second half as the side was looking for a second goal. Someone to look out for in the next Wits matches. Lethokuhle Makhaya (UFS): The UFS goalkeeper may have conceded from the penalty spot, but he pulled off an excellent save in the first half and remained composed during waves of TUT pressure at times. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

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.

For years, the dream of competing on the Varsity Netball stage has been discussed at the Central University of Technology (CUT). Now, that dream is finally becoming a reality. The Bloemfontein institution will make its debut in Varsity Netball 2026, giving a new generation of CUT players the opportunity to test themselves against some of the country's strongest university teams. The significance of CUT's arrival is amplified by its location. Situated just across the road from the University of the Free State, home of the multiple championship winning Kovsies, CUT will enter a competition where one of its closest rivals has already established a formidable legacy. But rather than being intimidated by their more experienced neighbours, coach Martha Mosoahle believes her team has earned its place on the stage. "Qualifying for Varsity Netball was a dream come true. It has been something that we talked about a lot, having to get players to believe that it was possible and eventually achieving that goal was insane," says Mosoahle. The journey to Varsity Netball has already required plenty of belief from the CUT squad and that same mindset will be crucial as they prepare to face some of the more established names in university netball. Mosoahle says the team has been working extremely hard in preparation for its debut, fully aware that the tournament presents an opportunity to measure themselves against the country's top university teams. "The team has been working very, very hard, knowing that this will be the opportunity to challenge the big teams as the new babies on the block, just to represent our university with pride." For CUT, however, the significance of the tournament extends beyond what happens on court. The exposure provided by Varsity Netball represents an opportunity for the university to showcase itself nationally, both as a sporting institution and as an academic institution. "This means a lot to the university, the publicity and marketing for CUT as one of the best, not only sporting institution but also academic." While CUT may be newcomers to Varsity Netball, fans shouldn't expect the team to sit back and simply admire the competition. Mosoahle promises a team that will embrace an energetic style of play, with pace and creativity at the heart of their approach . "Great vibes, fast-paced netball and a lot of flair from CUT players," is what fans can expect when the newcomers take to the court. That combination could make CUT an intriguing addition to the tournament as they look to bring their own identity to the Varsity Netball stage. Leading CUT into its historic debut will be captain Karla Victor, who brings significant experience to the squad after making her first appearance as a SPAR Protea during the recent Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. She will be supported by vice-captain Keletso Gontho, who brings international experience of her own as captain of the Botswana national team. CUT Provisional Squad: Zeluleko Ntombela, Tshegofatso Makoko, Hope Radebe, Thandeka Lefuma, Keletso Gontho, Dimpho Totola, Thandolwethu Madime, Tshepiso Choeu, Nomthandazo Hluthi, Karla Victor, Somila Xentsa, Asiphe Matiso, Zandria Bastone, Demi-leigh Erasmus. Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.