With a bit of polishing, DUT are relying on the programme they have in place to carry them through the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football season. DUT team manager Xolisile Mnikathi says while their preparations may not have been ideal, they are ready for the challenge. “We participated in a league with some of our players picking up injuries, so it has not been an easy task but with the programme [we have in place], not much was needed, just a bit of polishing with technicality and the mindset of the players.” According to Mnikathi they are realistic about their expectations in 2023. “We are looking to amend our previous mistakes and try by all means to sustain throughout the tournament and hopefully come out with pleasing results.” He is however excited about the prospects of a few exciting new players that have joined the team. “Nokwanda Xulu is a competitive football player with an understanding of Varsity Football as she has participated twice before. Zime Buthelezi is also a young player with potential, she knows how to move with the ball and her ability adds value to the team. “The new exciting player to watch will be Siphokazi Bhengu as she is very good on the ball, she has an idea of what is needed from the player, is very aggressive and protects the ball very well. Sanelisiwe Mjoka is also one of the new players this year and she is doing well in the Sasol League. Wandile Dladla looks tiny but when she holds the ball on her feet definitely you will get something, a fast and skilful player.” The exposure to Varsity Football is good for the growth of the sport, says Mnikathi. “Having more sponsors coming on board shows growth and development in women in football. Varsity Football has developed international players and for the upcoming players that makes them more excited to play at such a tournament. It also makes people believe that education and sport go together.” Defenders: Gugulethu Mdladla, Sanelisiwe Gladness Mjoka, Ongeziwe Nandipha Masango, Amanda Aliah Shelembe, Melokuhle Gxumisa, Mpelasonto Precious Gwamanda, Amukeliswa Ngubane Midfielders: Zime Amahle Buthelezi, Nokwanda Pamela Xulu, Kholeka Sphokazi Bhengu, Simphiwe Snethemba Fakude. Forwards: Angel Francisca Ncalane, Thandolwethu Xulu, Xolile Duma, Xoliswa Ngubane, Wandile Nature Dladla, Mbali Ntozakhe. Goalkeepers: Sanele Sihle Mnisi, Thandeka Pretty Shabangu. Full fixture lists HERE. For information on tickets, click HERE.

After failing to clinch the title in the previous two seasons, former champions TUT are eager to add to their growing tally when the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football competition kicks off on Friday 11 August. The Pretoria-based side last tasted success in 2019 when they won their sixth consecutive title. TUT will begin their campaign in a repeat of last year’s opening fixture when they take on DUT at home at the TUT Stadium. Head coach Christina Kutumelasays they are not taking anything for granted. “We begin our campaign against DUT again, but we are not taking advantage of that we beat them 5-0 last year. This is a different season and team, we will treat it like a final and take every game seriously. “Our preparations are going well, we have five players from last year’s squad and they will add a lot of experience. We are determined and hungry to make it through the semi-finals, we are ball-orientated and good players who are willing to take the team to a different stage.” The Red Army is one of the most feared sides in the tournament and they come into this season high in confidence as this year’s edition of the Women’s Varsity Football will be hosted on their home turf. “The fact that this tournament will be hosted at home, is a huge boost. We are honoured, this is an opportunity for us to do well. Having fans on our side will boost our confidence for us to get to the level where we could’ve achieved last year if we did not lose concentration and conceded that last-minute goal against UWC,” says Kutumela. Kutumela also hailed Banyana Banyana for their success at the FIFA Women’s World Cup [making it to the round of 16] with former TUT player Hildah Magaia playing a key role in the Banyana camp. “We’ve been longing for it for a very long time, look at where they are now. Their success boosts us to do better.” SQUAD LIST: Defenders: Glanny Mafikeng, Tsholofelo Hope Ngako, Dineo Sharol Ramaoka, Nokuthula Clodia Tshuma, Lungile Luyanda Mandlazi, Paballo Chela Midfielders: Bophelo Mmatli, Snethemba Perfect Manzini, Lesego Lindokuhle Molewa, Asanda Nicoline Msuthu, Tshogofatso Akhila Motlogelwa, Tracey Sibuyi, Nicole Mohlala, Noluthando Yvonne Hlatswayo, Nosihle Shezi, Lerato Silinda Forwards: Khothatso Lerooibaki, Wandile Maluleka, Naledi Mamello Thakanye, Nelia Tembe, Yolisa Ntsabo Goalkeepers: Nelly Lungile Nhlapho, Mapula Felicity Khumalo Full fixture lists HERE. For information on tickets, click HERE. By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Defending Varsity Football champions TUT might not finish the 2023 season with their long-serving captain Tebogo Lekaba. Lekaba is set to reunite with his Motsepe Foundation Championship side teammates when the 2023/24 season begins next month. He made his debut for TUT against UFS in 2017 and has been one of Bushy Moloi’s trusted forces ever since. Lekaba penned a two-year deal with Pretoria Callies after the fourth round of the 2022 Varsity Football campaign and was loaned to Baroka FC in December last year. Chances of Lekaba seeing out the 2023 Varsity Football season with TUT are slim as he is set to embark on a different journey to aid the Pretoria outfit in the fight to gain promotion to the DStv Premiership. “I’m not sure if I will finish with TUT but I’ll get the direction from my coach Bushy Moloi. Going forward I think if we convert our chances, we have a solid squad to compete and retain our title. “We play all our games away so it’s difficult for us, but here at the home of champions we are always prepared,” says Lekaba. Pretoria Callies had a sloppy start to their Motsepe Foundation Championship campaign last season which saw them having to avoid relegation and end tenth on the log. Like any other youngster in the country, the aim is to play professionally and for the big clubs. Lekabasays Varsity Football gave him the chance to showcase his talents. “I’d say it is a great experience playing in the Varsity Football because it is not far when comparing it to NFD and DStv Premiership, it brings the same feeling of the top flight leagues and it’s giving us a platform to showcase our talent and it is easy for us to be recognised by big clubs. “It feels great to play in a professional setup, you get to learn other aspects of the game and you grow faster from that because you are now playing with other experienced players like Sphelele Mthembu at Callies.” by LehlogonoloDitshego

To win everything is not the most important and therefore UKZN is looking to enjoy the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football tournament. That is the word from team manager Zoleka Ngcobo. “We just want to do our best and try to get the best result, which doesn’t have to be necessarily a victory but the learning experience will be cherished.” According to Ngcobo, their preparations have been hampered by a string of injuries and players graduating, making them ineligible for selection. “This meant building the team from scratch. Otherwise, the preparations have been going well, the players are mentally and physically ready to fight for the badge [of UKZN].” Ngcobo is excited by the new players that joined the team. “There’s the 21-year-old Zethembiso Vilakazi, who also plays for Lindelani women's football team. She is one of the youngest captains in the provincial leagues in South Africa and has created and assisted several goals this season while scoring at the same time. Zethembiso scored South Africa's only goal in the 2018 Under 17 Girls’ Football World Cup. She's deadly with her left or right foot.” Speaking on the importance of Women’s Varsity Football for the growth and development of women’s football in South Africa, Ngcobo says it is a great platform for student players to play at a competitive level whilst also achieving academically. “It contributes a great deal to producing academically qualified football players in South Africa. Take a look for instance at our Banyana Banyana team at the moment, how many players were scouted through Varsity Football and USSAs? It is a superb initiative because as a country we get the best of both worlds which is great footballers and well-educated individuals.” Defenders: Zamashandu Dube, Sinalo Fam, Gugu Mhlongo, Nokukhanya Ngonyama, Noncedo Dlulwakho, Ntokozo Mbhense. Midfielders: Nonsikelelo Langa, Bongiwe Xolo, Thobeka Buthelezi, Silindile Precious Ndlovu, Unathi Ntsele, Fundiswa Dladla, Boniswa Mncube, Asanda Nxele. Forwards: Siphesihle Fihlela, Zethembiso Vilakazi, Ntombifuthi Mncube, Thandeka Ntshangase, Lusanda Simelane, Phumla Pearl Nkomo, Cindy Mbatha. Goalkeepers: Sinenhlanhla Mtshali, Siyasanga Msimango, Aphiwe Msomi. Full fixture lists HERE. For information on tickets, click HERE.

The excitement is palpable as the eagerly anticipated Varsity Netball tournament gets underway on 20 August. With a flurry of high-energy matches, electrifying plays, and fierce competition, this year's tournament promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the best student netball in the country. From 20 August to 18 September, across three power-packed weekends, the Varsity Netball tournament will take place at three prestigious venues - Wits University, University of Johannesburg, and Stellenbosch University. The schedule promises a thrilling showcase of skill, determination, and teamwork as eight top-notch teams from various universities vie for the championship title. The participating teams include title holders Maties, Wits, UFS, Madibaz, UP-Tuks, UJ, NWU, and UWC. Last year undefeated Maties took it all the way to the final, where they beat NWU 68-55, for the first Varity Netball title. “Varsity Netball is not just about competition; it's a platform for showcasing raw talent that has the potential to shape the future of international netball. A significant number of the current Proteas team, who played in the Netball World Cup, are former or current Varsity Netball players. The tournament serves as a steppingstone for these athletes to rise to the international stage and make their mark in the sport”, says code manager Lisa Roux. As an exciting bonus, fans will have the opportunity to catch the action live as all the matches will be broadcast on SuperSport. Whether you're in the stands or cheering from home, you won't miss a moment of the intense gameplay and thrilling moments that make Varsity Netball a must-watch event. For those looking to experience the adrenaline firsthand, tickets are available for purchase at https://www.varsitysportssa.com/tickets. Secure your spot in the stands and be a part of the roaring crowd that supports these incredible athletes in their journey to victory. To plan your netball-filled weekends and stay updated on the fixtures, head over to https://www.varsitysportssa.com/netball-fixtures. With fierce competition on the horizon, mark your calendars and get ready to witness the sport's rising stars battle for glory. The return of Varsity Netball marks a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit of competition. As the stage is set, the teams are ready, and the energy is electric, don't miss out on the action-packed spectacle! #ShowYourColours!

Attention all Varsity Netball fans – it's time to mark your calendars because the campus launches are coming in hot! We're on a mission to crank up the excitement and make you feel even more connected to your university teams. Our mission? To create an experience that ignites passion and fuels your support for the upcoming tournament. Here's the twist, this year, we're shaking things up as we revamp the fan giveaway experience. We’re waving goodbye to giving away caps, instead, get ready to win an exclusive Varsity Netball themed tote bag. Trust us, you'll want to show off these babies everywhere. Gather your friends, deck yourselves out in your university's colours, and let's light up the campuses with Varsity Netball passion! Get ready to #ShowYourColours and be a part of a fun experience. Stay tuned for more updates – we're making this Varsity Netball season the most unforgettable one yet! 🏆🎉 What's Lined Up for You? · A dynamic MC to keep the vibes sky-high. · Groovy music and vibrant setups in the heart of student hustle-bustle. · The reveal of the teams · Fun and games Oh, and wait for it... the giveaways! From sponsor goodies to exclusive Varsity Netball-themed tote bags, there's plenty of swag to snag. Campus launch dates: Bumper 1 – WITS Friday, 18 August 12:00 - 14:00 Wits Library Lawns Bumper 2 – UJ Friday, 18 August Lunch Time APK campus Bumper 3 - MATIES Friday, 1 September Lunch Time TBC

The message from UWC in the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football tournament is clear – “We are going for gold”. The Cape-based side is still licking its wounds after finishing runners-up in last year's edition following their defeat to UJ in the final. Thinasonke Mbuli's side went down 3-5 on penalties. "We aim to regain the championship. We are aiming for the title this year. We lifted the cup in 2021, we were runners-up in 2022 and we cannot go back from here", says UWC midfielder Tiffany Kortjie. "One of the main mistakes we tend to make is that we don't use our chances early. This year it will be different, from defensive to attacking. We will be using all opportunities we have to correct our mistakes while fighting for the top spot." The 20-year-old BA Admin student believes the team can fight hard and their spirit will be the force in winning this year's cup. She says she knows what is expected from her as she aims to work hard to improve her game. "We’ve been training hard for this tournament, it is important to us. We are ready to showcase that and show South Africa that we belong at the top. The first year I played for UWC in Varsity Football we won the tournament and that is one of my goals, to help my team and do the best I can to win the championship again.” Kortjie also praises Banyana Banyana's achievement at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. "Proud is an understatement, they have been doing so well. It just shows the upcoming stars that goals and great heights like that are possible to reach." PROVISIONAL SQUAD: Defenders: Njabulo Mtshali, Sinegugu Zondi, Fikile Magama, Zikhona Nogqala, Thimna Mpehle, Lonathemba Mhlongo. Midfielders: Thembelihle Zulu, Bonang Mothoeng, Katlego Mabuza, Khanyisa Manengela, Asange Nake, Bongeka Gamede, Lindokuhle Gladile. Forwards: Tiffany Kortjie, Nabeelah Galant, Chelsea Daniels, Andiswa Mthethwa. Goalkeepers: Siphesihle Dlamini, Thandeka Ngcobo. Full fixture lists HERE. For information on tickets, click HERE. by Ayanda Frances Felem

Following their second title last year, UJ is coming into the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football tournament as red-hot favourites. The Johannesburg-based team’s squad has a good mixture of experienced players and youngsters who have already played in several games as preparation for this year’s tournament that gets underway on Friday 11 August. "The camp has been good, the mood is great. The girls have gelled well together and brought about combinations that we can use for our coming games. A lot of hard work and long hours still being put on at training and we aren't relaxed yet, just finalising the last touches to get us into the groove," says UJ head coach Nthabeleng "Dunga" Modiko. With a renewed interest in football following Banyana Banyana’s success at the World Cup, this year’s Varsity Cup competition is expected to be a thrilling one. UJ will have to do without the services of former captain Refilwe Maseko and goalkeeper Elizabeth Mazivise who have graduated. Youngsters like Yolanda Nduli, Lusanda Mavundla, Sbonga Mzobe and Matshediso Masebe are set to get their chance to shine. According to Modiko, the young players are always hard-working, full of creativity and new ideas. Their approach and style of play should not be too far from last year's with a flair of good football and pure joy to play and to watch, says Modiko. "Well, this year should be bigger than the last. We want our fans and families to be proud of us and whenever we go out on this campaign, we want to do and win everything. We have been working hard to perfect our strengths and minimise our weaknesses and I think the UJ team will benefit greatly from this fact.” Although last year the spotlight was on the Shamase twins, this year is different as all eyes will be on Ayesha Moosa, Shannon Macomo, Kabelo Mokoena and Yolanda Nduli who have been having a wonderful season. All three, besides Yolanda, were part of the 2022 Varsity Cup squad and are most likely going to be the standout players. Modiko says their experience will undoubtedly be key for the UJ team this year. "The Orange Army fans are our heartbeat. We will do our all to make them proud, we want to defend our title as a gift to them. We saw how happy and joyous they were last year when we lifted it. We promise to play the best brand of football and give them goals to celebrate.” PROVISIONAL SQUAD: Defenders: Lerato Lefa, Atlegang Mogale, Botiumelo Rasehlo, Kabelo Mokoena, Yolanda Nduli, Lungile Khumalo, Nokuthula Sekhukhune, Sithabile Xulu, Kholiwe Tabohane, Queen Ntsoelikane. Midfielders: Shandile Msomi, Sthembile Sandleni, Shakeerah Jacobs, Sbongakonke Mzobe, Shannon Macoma. Forwards: Ayesha Moosa, Lusanda Mavundla, Masego Maselane, Lesego Nhlapho, Boipelo Tlandinyana. Goalkeepers: Bontle Hobyane, Matshidiso Masebe. by Gontse Hlophe

When the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football competition gets underway on Friday 11 August, UP-Tuks are clear on what they want – their first title. Head coach Maude Khumalo says the team is ready and up for the challenge. “Our preparation went well even though we were caught up in between the Hollywood Bets Super League. Last season was a lot for us because we paid more attention to qualifying for the Hollywood Bets Super League and got into the quarter-finals of Varsity Football. This year we are fully focused on Varsity Football and planning on going all the way to win it.” With neighbours TUT being one of the most successful sides in Women’s Varsity Football, Tuks came close to clinching the coveted trophy once in 2021 when they lost to UWC on penalties. The hunt continues for Khumalo and the squad. “It will be a great bonus for us to win because last season we managed to qualify for Hollywood Bets Super League whereby we had to participate in both tournaments, it was not an easy task. This year our mind will be fully focused on Varsity Football.” Tuks could be boosted by the return of midfielder Wendy Shongwe from the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup where Banyana Banyana made history by making the knockout stages for the first time. “Banyana Banyana made history at the World Cup, it motivates my team because we have our very own Wendy Shongwe representing us which shows that women’s football is growing,” says Khumalo. Tuks open their Varsity Football title chase against Wits in the Jukskei River derby and Khumalo says it’s going to be a tricky game. “Playing against Wits is not going to be an easy game, the last time we played them was in the USSA and it was a challenging game. Each year they bring new players, we have new players as well and they add some diversity. We will see what they have in store for us.” PROVISIONAL SQUAD: Defenders: Thando Khubeka, Mmakgotso Mashishi, Morongwa Manamela, Relebogile Phala, Betty Mallela, Olwethu Tetyana, Zama Ngcobo, Zikhona Mgotywa. Midfielders: Elanza Hendricks, Lethabo Ledwaba, Sinamile Mkhwanazi, Rethabile Makhwela, Ibanathi Msindo. Forwards: S'bahle Ndlovu, Wendy Shongwe, Lesedi Petlane, Siyamthanda Qashani. Goalkeepers: Slindile Duma, Kgothatso Manamela. Full fixture lists HERE. For information on tickets, click HERE. By LehlogonoloDitshego

Defending champions TUT finally tasted victory in round 2 of the 2023 Varsity Football competition with a commanding 6-2 thumping of CUT. Four goals from the boot of striker Ronald Mabaso sealed the deal. The victory for Bushy Moloi’s troops came after a disappointing goalless draw against UFS in the opening round in Bloemfontein. Opportunity delayed proved to not be opportunity denied as Mabaso returned to Varsity Football following a two years absence. “I feel good to be back and about my performance, as a striker my primary job is to score goals and help my team win. Last year I did not qualify and 2021 I got injured in the first game and got ruled out,” says Mabaso. Mabaso hails from Mothotlung on the outskirts of Brits and joined TUT in 2019 when he impressed Moloi while playing for Titans FC in the SAB Club Champions. His debut came against fierce rivals Tuks the same year, with TUT the winners on the day. Mabaso says he remembers it well. “My Varsity Football debut was difficult as we were playing against very experienced players such as the likes of Mohau Khunana. TUT were the defending champions and a lot was expected from me as a striker.” The 25-year-old’s sterling performance last week against TUT earned him the man of the match award. He has now scored seven goals in Varsity Football and promises to score more as he says his performance was not a fluke. “With my performance on the night, I am not going put a lot of pressure on myself, the goal is to play nine games and defend our title. I will score more goals to help my team achieve that. It is difficult for us already as we play away from our supporters. Just like any youngster, I want to play professionally and hopefully abroad.” By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Cape Town Spurs stalwart and defender Clayton Daniels believes UWC captain Craig Joemath could be a force to reckon with. Daniels has called on Joemath to continue to work hard, also in Varsity Football, something that would force the DStv Premiership to take notice of him. The 39-year-old met Joemath in 2018 during his SuperSport United days. Joemath is a final year BA Sports Recreation and Exercise Science student. He was contracted to SuperSport whilst he was still in high school in 2018. Joemath has always looked up to Daniels since his Ajax Cape Town days. The Mitchell’s Plain born has had the taste of top-flight football. He has featured for the likes of All-Stars, Steenberg United and Zizwe United. The former Bafana Bafana international has shared words of encouragement with the young defender. Daniels says Joemath should not give up on his dream of playing in elite football and should put in the work to get there. "I know Craig and I have been following him since the time he was trialling at SuperSport United, I spoke to him, and we had a good conversation. Sometimes you have to trust the process, it might not work exactly at the time you want but perseverance is the key. In life, sometimes you have to be patient and don't rush your career in a certain direction, I know he got hampered by injury as well." The two defenders recently lined up against each other when Spurs and UWC played a friendly match. Daniels believes Joemath has a lot to offer. "I want to encourage him to keep going and never give up, he's an incredible footballer, watched him, watch his football as well. The last time we played UWC he had a good game. "But what I can also encourage him to do is to work on his fitness a little bit more and he could be sharper and more dynamic for a modern-day fullback and left back to go up and down in the field." by Ayanda Frances Felem

The anticipation is building as the much-awaited Women’s Varsity Football tournament is set to kick off on 11 August at TUT University. Eight fiercely competitive teams, including defending champions UJ, will battle it out for glory and the honour of lifting the coveted trophy. From 11 August to 19 August, football fans will be treated to an action-packed spectacle as teams from UFH, UKZN, UP, Wits, UJ, UWC, DUT, and TUT compete for the title. The excitement will be palpable as they display their prowess and determination to emerge as champions. Last season's host, UJ, clinched their second title in a nail-biting penalty shootout against defending champions UWC, creating an unforgettable sporting moment. Their triumph has set the stage for an even more intense and thrilling competition this year. "This year's tournament promises to be better than ever, with an exceptional line-up of talented players ready to showcase their skills on the pitch. It's was great seeing several former or current Varsity Football players representing Banyana Banyana at the World Cup which showcases the incredible impact the tournament has on grooming future football stars for national and international competitions", says Varsity Football manager Lisa Roux. Adding to the excitement of the upcoming tournament, it is worth mentioning that 12 Womens Varsity Football alumni were part of the victorious African Cup of Nations team in 2022. These outstanding players have proven that the Varsity Football platform nurtures talent, and it serves as a stepping stone for players to make their mark at the international level. Those unable to attend the matches in person can watch the featured games live on SuperSport, ensuring that fans across the nation can witness the electrifying matches from the comfort of their homes. With numerous exhilarating encounters scheduled, there's no shortage of thrilling football moments to look forward to during the tournament. The stage is set, the teams are ready, and the atmosphere is charged with excitement. Womens Varsity Football is back, and it promises to be an unforgettable sporting spectacle. Don't miss out on this extraordinary celebration of women's football talent! Tickets for the Womens Varsity Football tournament are now available for purchase at https://www.varsitysportssa.com/tickets. To check out the fixtures and plan your must-see matches, head over to https://www.varsitysportssa.com/football-women-fixtures. #iyachesa!