The hottest university football tournament is back with a bang with the 2023 Varsity Football tournament set to kickoff on 27 July. Fans can once again look forward to an action-packed competition that not only entertains and excites but is also a stepping stone to greatness in the most-watched sport on the planet. Since the first tournament in 2013, Varsity Football has gone from strength to strength with the clear message to players that it is all about chasing their dreams, reaching their full potential and leaving it all on the field. Lisa Roux, head of Varsity Sports, says the endless possibilities that come with playing in the tournament and the impact it has had on the players’ lives, have been phenomenal. “Varsity Football is where future football stars are born and where they showcase their skills. It's where the field of dreams becomes a reality and where lives are transformed. This season, Varsity Football will once again be more than just another tournament, it will be a cultural phenomenon and one that you can’t afford to miss out on. We're talking about the vibe, the people, and the endless opportunities that define Varsity Football.” This year, UJ, TUT, NWU, VUT, UFS, CUT, UFH and UWC will take each other on over seven rounds between 27 July and 7 September. The semi-finals against the top four teams are scheduled for 14 September while the final will be contested on 28 September. All matches take place on Thursday with featured games broadcast live on SuperSport. The 2023 Varsity Football Women’s tournament will take place between 11 and 19 August. UFH, UKZN, UP, Wits, UJ, UWC, DUT and TUT are vying for top honours. TUT beat UJ 2-1 in last year’s men’s final and will undoubtedly be out to claim an unprecedented fourth Varsity Football title. The Pretoria-based team were the champions in 2016 and 2018 and also made it to the final in 2015, 2017 and 2019. Apart from the football action, fans can also look forward to the #IyachesaFAN challenge at games and on social media, as well as some great exciting promotions from main sponsor FNB. Suzuki and new sponsor Cashbuild have also thrown their weight behind the foremost university football competition in South Africa. The opening round of the 2023 Varsity Football tournament on 27 July will see the following action: NWU vs UJ (17:00) - NWU Mafikeng Stadium UFS vs TUT (19:15) - Shimla Park UFH vs VUT (15:00) - Davidson Stadium CUT vs UWC (18:30) - CUT Stadium For all the 2023 fixtures click HERE. For tickets click HERE.

UFS are confident and upbeat heading into their 2023 Varsity Football campaign. This year the Blues have a clear objective, and that is to win the tournament for the first time after coming so close the past two years, only to fall short in the semi-finals. In addition, the well-established outfit are excited at the prospect of playing in a Bloemfontein derby for the first time with the inclusion of CUT. The focus for the Blues this year is certainly on it being a team effort and they want to win the tournament as a collective, as opposed to banking on one of two star players. That said, captain Aphiwe Zulu will most definitely be the player to keep an eye on this season. UFS coach Tebogo Motsamai feels that leading into the tournament there is a positive vibe in the camp and their goal is to ensure the title comes to the Free State. “We have a few players in the squad that were around last year. “That attitude and the mood in the camp is very good. The guys have been training well and, in the friendlies we have played so far, they have managed to come out on top and they are trying their level best. “With the Varsity Football this year, we want to win it. We want the title in Bloemfontein.” Regarding the derby fixture in round 7, Motsamai says it is something that they and the fans are excited about and the match itself will be for the people of the city who are starved of top-flight football. “The CUT derby I think will be for the people of Bloemfontein and the Free State. There are no Premier Soccer League teams here and I think the football fans cannot wait to see us in action. “The students and supporters are all happy about the derby, but they are also just excited for our first game.” UFS 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Thembekile Mhlathi, Tisetso Seodinyane, Makhanya Lethokuhle. Defenders: Aphiwe Zulu, Thato Skhosana, Itumeleng Louw, Bongani Ndimande, Lizwi Kunene, James Mhlanga, Thandolwethu Khoza, Obakeng Seekoei, Iviwe Dyabuza. Midfielders: Jerome Jansen, Ethan Goldstone, Sabelo Mthembu, Reatlehile Meya, Tyson-Wright Phiri, Eon Pieterse, Arlonso Diedricks. Forwards: Thato Nkhatho, Omphemetse Athibeng, Boy Rantsoti, Jermein Marou, Sambulo Sithole. UFS kick off their campaign against defending champions TUT on Thursday 27 July at Shimla Park (18:30).

After five years of struggle, UFH are finally back in the top flight with their return to the 2023 Varsity Football tournament. The university last participated in this competition in 2017. They failed to win any of their seven games, and in 630 minutes of play, they only managed two goals. This year it is a rejuvenated Fort Hare team that will take to the field, with the entire squad, including all players as well as the coaches making their debut season. One may argue that UFH lack the necessary Varsity Football experience to compete in the competition. However, based on what have been seen in their preparations, these individuals have the passion, ambition and football brains to deliver positive outcomes for the UFH family. Mongile Nyosana, head coach of the UFH, believes his team is properly prepared for their debut game against VUT. “We've been training for five weeks, and the players are physically and mentally prepared, the team spirit is strong, and the players are eager to play. “We played against VUT in the USSA tournament last year and have identified some areas where they are deficient, and obviously we are hoping to expose them in those areas only if our players execute the tactical plan properly. Although we are optimistic, the hurdles we may face in our game against VUT include stage fright, enthusiasm for the exposure, and inexperience, given that we are the underdogs in this competition.” UFH captain Bonke Nxiwa echoes his head coach's thoughts, adding that their friendly games against Chippa United and various ABC Motsepe teams have helped them build confidence ahead of their first game against VUT. UFH 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Lihle Vathu, Ngcwalisa Ngamani, Nkosiyethu Ngobe. Defenders: Asanda Nayo, Athenkosi Dobe, Athenkosi Masiza, Bonke Nxiwa, Bungane Mbeko, Athenkosi Jezi, Snethemba Sibeko, Lubabalo Dayimani, Someleze Kapteni, Yamkela Mthembu. Midfielders: Chuma Mhlonyane, Gcuku Bubele, Lonwabo Booi, Oko Filtane, Mandla Lengisi, Thandile Langa, Thabani Mqambeli. Forwards: Lehlonono Thuledi, Samkelo Tshazi, Sihle Mathumbu, Sinobom Kapase. UFH kick off their campaign against VUT on Thursday 27 July at the Davidson Stadium (18:30). by Thembela Tangana

Despite only three previous appearances in Varsity Football and the results being less than stellar, VUT are backing themselves to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2023 tournament. The team first participated in Varsity Football in 2015, finishing sixth on the log with two wins, one draw and four defeats. It must be said though that one of the victories was over defending champions TUT (3-0). In 2021 VUT occupied the seventh spot with two wins, two draws and three losses. Last year there were two wins, one draw and four losses. A run of good results outside of Varsity Football the last couple of years has however shown what VUT are capable of. The team managed a respectable 3-all draw against the Orlando Pirates reserve league team in 2021. In 2020 fourth-tier VUT came out of nowhere and caused a shock upset in the first round of the Nedbank Cup when they knocked PSL side Golden Arrows out. VUT head coach Thabang Makhanya says they are ready for whatever the 2023 season throw at them. “Our preparations have been well balanced, from intense training to game preparation. We will be finishing with some speed work and then I think all will be well. The goal this year is to reach the semis, and I believe it is achievable.” Assistant coach Pakiso Ttjotjo echoes Makhanya. “We are looking forward to this year's tournament and doing better than the previous editions of Varsity Football. Our main target is to make the semis, and from there, anything is possible in the game of football.” VUT 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Thabiso Moeketsi, Tebobo Mosia. Defenders: Thapelo Mphore, Roger Modiba, Perseverance Mashabane, Kgotso Nhlapho, Thokolo Medupi, Katlego Ramohloa. Midfielders: Simamkelo Masiza, Kgabo Ngoepe, Sizwe Sibeko, Siyabonga Nombewn, Lucky Raphala, Robert Sekhaolelo, Ntokozo Mgidi. Forwards: Jabulane Mazibuko, Sibusiso Motsepa, Karabo Maghashalala, Tebogo Gasenewe, Sibusiso Baloyi, Kgomoeswana Kgahlisho, Ndzalama Whati, Singo Thabiso, Karabo Ntuli. VUT kick off their campaign against UFH on Thursday 27 July at the Davidson Stadium (15:00).

The struggles of CUT to assemble a competitive squad for the 2023 Varsity Football tournament are not deterring them from the lofty goal of reaching the semi-finals. They have had a torrid time in putting together a squad as a great number of players didn’t meet the credit requirements to be able to compete. This has however not dampened the spirits of what is essentially the new boys on the block heading into this year’s competition and they are determined to make their tertiary institution in Bloemfontein and indeed also the whole of the Free State proud. CUT reached the semi-finals in their debut Varsity Football season in 2016 and repeated the feat a year later. CUT coach Benny Rakometsi concedes they have had their challenges in preparing for their campaign. However, he is adamant his team will give it their all as they want to make use of this golden opportunity to measure themselves against the very best. “Most of our players we had been preparing with didn’t meet the 60 credit requirement [to participate in the tournament], so we are going to be playing with a new team altogether. It is going to be tough, but we are ready to give it our best in each and every game. “Our target for the season is to make sure that we at least qualify for the semi-finals. We know that we are going to be up against the very best universities, but we will try our best.” CUT will get to play in a historic derby against UFS towards the backend of the round-robins, and Ramoketsi says they are looking forward to the encounter. “We are going to play in a derby, with CUT up against UFS, and I think this is definitely going to be very exciting.” CUT 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Xolane Valashiya, Badlezane Athenkosi. Defenders: Simo Ndlovu, Khotso Mphene, Pogiso Dikole, Phumo Lehakoe, Kabelo Mofokeng, Keletso Khumalo, Iefa Motlatsi, Midfielders: Tumelo Mothabeng, Mpho Bartman, Mzemele Siyabonga, Edward Tshabalala, Matala Malefetsane, Karabo Monyane, Ngcobo Mpho. Forwards: Oratile Mothibedi, Lehlohonolo Nkaekae, Tisetso Mpholoana, Mbonisani Ngwenya, Pule Thekiso, Jaden Bontes, CUT gets their campaign underway on Thursday 27 July against UWC at CUT Park (18:30).

There is no lack of confidence in the NWU-Mafikeng camp ahead of the 2023 Varsity Football tournament as the team is ready to leave it all out on the field in their quest for glory in the country’s premier student football competition. In their bid to gauge their readiness, the team has engaged in a series of friendly matches against tough opponents over the past month or so. This includes outings against Tuks FC, SuperSport United FC as well as the Bafana Bafana team that recently won the bronze medal at the Cosafa Cup. When asked about the objectives of these friendly fixtures, caretaker coach Amos Xabanisa says the primary goal was to assess the team's overall preparedness for the Varsity Football tournament. "I can confirm that we are ready. We are now working on fine-tuning the technical aspects of our game and ensuring that our players are in good physical condition." Xabanisa says the team’s opening fixture against UJ at home at the NWU-Mafikeng Stadium provides his players with a significant advantage, both in terms of the passionate supporters filling the stands and the players’ familiarity with the field. This is despite UJ boasting an impressive record in Varsity Football, having been crowned champions in 2021 and finalists in 2022. "In our stadium, we have the unwavering support of our fans, and the players feel at home, which boosts their confidence. Furthermore, playing home games has a positive psychological impact on the team, giving us an extra edge. “The encounter is poised to be an intense battle of skills and determination. My players have been honing their abilities and working tirelessly to ensure that they can go toe-to-toe with UJ, and most importantly secure a home win in our first game.” NWU-Mafikeng 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Lesedi Mokwena, Kamogelo Matane, Reddel Precious Duh Ngulle. Defenders: Kgopotso Mashapo, Aphelele Sibisi, Pascal Tivhane, Lucas Seromo, Lesego Motsepe, Kananelo Motsoeneng, Tumelo Mokgeseng, Sousa Mathe. Midfielders: Lesiba Mahlong, Lesedi Bakai, Oatlhotse Ditlhobolo, Kopano Molefe, Gqokonqna Ntobeko, Itumeleng Mokgeseng, Thabang Majoro. Forwards: Tshepang Matshediso, Heaven Sereetsi, Thato Ndela, Sibusiso Mahlangu, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Itumeleng Selemela. NWU-Mafikeng kick off their campaign against UJ on Thursday 27 July at NWU-Mafikeng Stadium (17:00).

UWC are ready and fired up to get the ball rolling in the 2023 Varsity Football tournament. The Cape Town-based team did not feature in the last two instalments (2021, 2022) and according to head coach Dr Lwando Mdleleni the squad has a clear goal – to tackle their challenges head-on. The pedigree of Mdleleni as a footballer within the UWC ranks spans nearly two decades. The former captain led the side for seven years after joining the team in 2006. Upon retirement, he transitioned into an assistant coach role in 2015 and six seasons later, in 2021, was handed the head coaching role. Despite the high confidence levels, Mdleleni strongly believes the competition will not be easy as he hopes to restore the team to its former glory when they lifted the trophy in 2015. "It is important to note that we are not oblivious to the challenges that lie ahead. We acknowledge the fact that we have been absent from the Varsity Football competition for the last two years, and this presents us with a substantial hurdle to overcome. However, we are prepared to confront this daunting task head-on." Cape Town is a region known for producing some of the world's finest footballers. UWC has tapped into this and recruited some of Cape Town's finest talent, something which Mdleleni hopes to use to his full advantage. "We have a good cohort of players who have done very well in the junior tournaments. We have Shuaib Martin from Cape Town Spurs, who won Bayhill Player of the Tournament in 2022. We also have Shakur Hector and Imaan January who won the Bayhill tournament in 2023. Then there is Sabelo Msimango who is also a great talent, as well as Lisa Nogcinisa a former Cape Umoya Junior." UWC 24-man squad: Goalkeepers: Nyiko Khoza, Leathan Croats, Asanele Nqevu. Defenders: Siyabulela Mcimeli, Riyaad Prout, Damian Overmeyer, Jadan Zeeman, Shakur Hector, Craig Joemath, Qhayisa Lekata, Mogammat Ridhaa Esack. Midfielders: Matthew Peterson, Khanya Dyani, Riyaaz Koopstadt, Sandile Nomjila, Shuaib Martin, Relebohile Matima, Arnold Bafana Dube. Forwards: Devon Nolan, Juanito Manuel, Luyolo Mpokotya, Leandro de Sousa, Nkosingiphile Ncwane, John Tambwe Kapita. UWC kick off their campaign against CUT away on Thursday 27 July at the CUT Stadium (18:30). For all the fixtures click HERE. by Lyndon Julius

TUT has dominated the Women’s Varsity Football tournament like no other, clinching six of the eight titles on offer, but had a disappointing campaign by their standards last year. The Tshwane University of Technology unveiled former SA U17 coach Simphiwe ‘Shorty’ Dludlu as their new coach ahead of last year’s campaign, taking over from former Banyana Banyana coach Anna Monate, who is now with UJ. However, things didn’t go according to plan and TUT only finished third in their group, missing out on the semi-finals for the first time. Following the disappointment from 2021, the team enters this year’s edition with a new technical team around head coach Christina Kutumela, who is eager to bring the trophy back to Tshwane. “We are looking forward to the tournament and want to bring the trophy back,” Kutumela told Varsity Football. “The preparations have gone well, we’ve had everyone available from the squad and came up with a strategy that we believe will do wonders for us.” TUT are again paired with the University of Pretoria Tuks, Wits University and the Durban University of Technology in Group A, kicking their campaign off against DUT, who they beat 7-0 in 2021. PLAYERS TO WATCH Yolisa Ntsabo – A dangerous striker, who is doing well tactically and also convinces with a strong shot. Tshegofatso Aphane – A brilliant midfielder, with good technique in her kicking game. She is also the captain of the team. DID YOU KNOW? TUT has played in seven of eight Varsity Football women’s cup finals, losing the first against UJ in 2013 before winning the next six. TUT play in the Hollywoodbets Super League and finished second behind Mamelodi Sundowns last season. TEAM FACT FILE Nickname: Red Army Province: Gauteng Appearances: Eight (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021) Titles: Six (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019) Biggest win: 4-0 against UJ (2017) Biggest loss: 7-0 against DUB (2021) 2022 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Thando Sitole, Nelly Nhlapo, Valencia Ntwayagae Defenders: Dineo Sharol Ramaoka, Nokuthula Tshuma, Lebogang Chuma, Phumza Tshangisa, Kopano Mokwela Midfielders: Tshegofatso Aphane (captain), Tshegofatso Motlogelwa, Thandeka Wandile Maluleka, Reneilwe Mogale, Sarah-Jane Ndhlovu, Glenny Mafikeng, Botsiba Confidence Lebea, Ayanda Princess Masina, Tsholofelo Hope Ngako Strikers: Nombulelo Khumalo, Johanna Ramanna, Khothatso Lerooibaki, Yolisa Ntsabo, Rethabile Mohlouao TECHNICAL TEAM Head coach: Christina Kutumela First assistant coach: Vongani Shirinda Second assistant coach: Grace Somo Team manager: Mbali Jiyane Goalkeeper coach: Given Motsoeneng Physiotherapist: Leago Lethole Logistics manager/compliance officer: Khomotso Kganakga Technical Advisor: Sizwe Lucky Sibiya

The women’s Varsity 7s rugby tournament kick-off an epic day of rugby that saw UFH not concede a single point in four games while UJ crushed every opponent they faced. Here’s how it all went down. Women’s Match 1 (W): UFH vs TUT: 36-0 The first match of the Varsity 7’s tournament saw UFH ran riot as they dominated the TUT women’s side. With a 21-0 lead at halftime, it was clear that the University of Fort Hare were thirsty for a thrashing in the second half. Makhomazi Sivuyiseko & Siphesihle Hlangani bagged a brace of tries, while Msengi Ongeziwe and Nobuhle Msomi each got a single try. Match 2 (W): UL vs Madibaz 5-17 Madibaz and the University of Limpopo could not be separated in the first half with Miranda Ngqongwana scoring for Madibaz while Lettie Mahaole scored a sensational try for UL from the 55’ meter line to cut the deficit to 2 points. The second half was a different story as Hazel Madika scored a try and Mihlali Gaqa ran away with the result for Madibaz during the Varsity Festival 7s Rugby University of Limpopo W v Madibaz W on Friday 07 October 2022 at Tuks Astro Photo by Christiaan Kotze/ C&C Photo Agency for Varsity/ AsemEngage Match 3 (W): UJ vs Walter Sisulu 34 – 0 The Orange Army were quick out the blocks as speedster Tanya Shava opened the scoring. UJ were putting on a show with some scintillating passing which resulted in Mardiya Usman finishing off a good team play. Tanya Shava was proving too hot to handle as she bagged a brace taking the halftime score to 15:0. Shava got a hat trick in the second half and made an early contention for Women of the tournament. Akhona Nkosi & Aliyah Njamme me closed off the scoring to seal a dominant victory. Match 8 (W): UP-Tuks 22 – 0 Madibaz The women’s home team took on a spirited Madibaz side, but the home side was spurred by their partisan support as Ferannah Burger scored her team’s first try of the tournament. 5-0 going into halftime. The game was far from decided as Madibaz got half chances to equalize but to no avail. Sune Botha suffered a nasty head injury and that seemed to rally the team as Andiswa Masego scored a power play try. Miche Pretorius put the icing on top with the final try to win 22-0 to the home side Match 9 (W): UFH 0-53 WSU It was an Eastern Cape affair but it was Fort Hare that dominated as Touto Zanele, Siphesihle Hlangani and Nobuhle Msomi ran in three quick-fire tries for Fort Hare. UFH was putting on a rugby clinic as Vakalisa Lillitha scored and took a dominant 24-0 lead into halftime. Touto Zanele bagged her brace early in the second and it was clear that UFH were determined to humiliate their opponents. The score kept on increasing as Siphesihle Hlangani bagged a brace to make it 38:0. A brace turned into a hatrick as Hlangani scored a power-point try. Qogi Inga and the score saw UFH run rampant 53-0. Match 10 (W): UL 0-58 UJ Precious Maduchem got the Orange Army up and running early and it was clear they were going to make light work of the University of Limpopo. Nyasha Gonangombe grabbed the second and the UJ women’s side was proving to be favourites. Maduchem scored a power-point try and later made it a hattrick as the score was a mammoth 31-0 to the Orange Army. Gonangombe scored again before the brink of halftime and UJ went into the lead 36-0. Captain Masingita Simango got into the action herself as UJ were hunting for a half-century of points. Mpumelelo Dlamini scored again and the scorekeepers were losing track with the score sitting at 48-0. Tanya Shava scored a Power-Point try and UJ eclipsed half a century, with the score 58-0… Match 15 (W): WSU 22- 0 Madibaz The Eastern Cape Derby between Walter Sisulu And Madibaz saw the former get on the board first after an exhilarating counter-attack which led to WSU’s first try scored by Buyimpilo Bavu. That was the only meaningful action of the half and Madibaz were trailing 0-7. The power play was the defining factor between the two as WSU extended their lead to 12-0 and were on course for their first win. The team cruised to victory with their last try from Sinaye Mbolomopo winning 22-0. Match 16 (W): UJ 39-5 TUT The Orange Arny faced early sustained pressure from TUT and the underdogs were pushing, however, the front-runner for the player of the tournament Tanya Shava outpaced almost every defender from her half to the try and gave UJ the lead. Not to be discouraged TUT bounced back big forward Vainah Ubisi to make it 7-5. UJ caught TUT napping as Precious Madauchen scored at the end of the half to make it 14-5. The lead was further extended in the second half with Aaliyah Njamme and Akhona Nkosi and the Orange Army were running away with it 24:5. Another try was scored by Lethukthula Dlamini in the power play period which saw UJ win comfortably 39-5. Match 17 (W): UP-Tuks 0-33 UFH UFH scored a sensational try from inside their half as Vakalisa Lillitha put on the after-burners and stormed to the try line to give Fort Hare the lease. With the home crowd silenced, Tuks buckled under pressure and Msengi Ongeziwe Qogi Inga made it 19-0 going into halftime for UFH. Things got from bad to worse as Siphesihle Hlangani scored back-to-back tries and stamped her claim for player of the tournament. Fort Hare won their consecutive win and put on a rugby clinic to beat Tuks 33-0. Match 22 (W): TUT 24 – 5 Madibaz The side from Tshwane showed power and pace and duly took the lead courtesy of Tebogo Rakgatla who scored two consecutive tries. The side went in 10-0 ahead. In the second half, TUT suffered after receiving a yellow card as Madibaz scored a try and it was all to play for in the last few minutes with the score at 10:5. The big and towering Vainha Ubisi put the game out of reach for Madibaz as she scored twice as TUT won 24:5 Match 23 (W): UL vs UFH 0-22 The penultimate game of match day one saw Fort Hare make light work of the University of Limpopo as Makhomazi Sivuyiseko scored a try and Qogi Inga ran in two tries as the side went in 17-0 ahead. The second half was more of the same for Fort Hare as they continued scoring back-to-back tries at the helpless University of Limpopo. Qogi Inga was running the show and bagged herself a brace of tries. The game ended 34-0 to UFH after a power play try. Match 24(W) UJ 64 – 0 UP-Tuks The last match of Friday was another Gauteng derby, this time the ladies. The Orange Army was playing like title contenders as they made light work of Tuks courtesy of captain Masingita Simango, Akhona Nkosi and two tries for Tanya Shava in a dominant 28-0 halftime display. Captain Masingita Simango got her hat trick and was unplayable with UJ running try after try. There were chants of 50-0 from the UJ army after Aliyah Njamme added another try to make it 47-0. The Orange Army capitalized on the power play and annihilated Tuks 64-0 For all the results and fixtures click HERE. All games broadcast live on SuperSport Variety 4.

Eight of South Africa’s top Varsity 7s teams will fight it out for the 2022 men’s Varsity 7s championship at the Tuks Stadium in Pretoria on 7 and 8 October. University of Johannesburg Nickname: Orange Army (UJ) Titles: 2017 & 2019 Star player to look out for: Mpho Khubeka The defending 2019 champions are coming into this year’s edition as favourites given their glory in the last competition. However, does this also mean they’re coming in with a target on their back? Varsity sports spoke to UJ coach Patrick Ross-Allen, who says the team come into the competition with pressure of being champions. “”Being the reigning champions, there is pressure because everyone wants to beat the champs. We’ve got a target on our backs; each team will play their best game against us.” Meanwhile captain Mpho Khubeka who has been touted as the star player set to sizzle the competition, says he and his team will give it 100% on the field. “We come in with clear heads, nothing that we won in 2019. We will take it one game at a time, not focusing on the cup, but on each game. As captain when I get on the field, I just aim to give it 100%” Fixtures: UJ vs NWU – Friday 10:43AM Madibaz vs UJ – Friday 13:17 PM UP-Tuks vs UJ – Friday 16: 35PM UWC vs UJ – Saturday 9:59 AM University of Stellenbosch Nickname: Maties Titles: 2012 (Plett leg), 2013 & 2016 Star player to look out for: Frederick van Zyl One cannot talk about university rugby without mentioning Maties. The university which has represents the culture and heritage of university rugby are always favourites coming into any form of rugby. The team however have not won a title in the last 5 years and will be looking to climb back to glory in Pretoria. Varsity sports spoke to captain and star player Frederick can Eeeden van Zyl who says his team are hungry for glory. He says his team will be bold and decisive. “Everyone knows the Maties brand and Maties rugby, the jersey won’t play for itself we won’t bargain for anything. We must do everything, and we are motivated as we have worked hard for the last 3 months.” Fixtures: Maties vs Madibaz – Friday 11:27 AM UWC vs Maties – Friday 13:39 PM NWU-Pukke vs Maties – Friday 16:13 PM UP-Tuks vs Maties – Saturday 9:37AM University of Pretoria Nickname: UP- Tuks Titles: 2018 Star player to look out for: Stephan Coetzee UP-Tuks come into the tournament as the hosts and will have home ground to their advantage. With the Varsity Sports festival taking place at the Tuks Stadium, the team can be spurred forward by its partisan support. Speaking to Varsity sports assistant coach Andre Kruger says playing at home does put pressure on the team. “Everybody expects us to do good on our home field, but sevens rugby does not really have the same home ground advantage as 15’s rugby. But I am confident that if students come through then the crowds will back us with that energy.” With the likes of alumni Impi Visser rising from Varsity 7’s rugby all the way to the Bliztboks, coach Kruger believes Stephan Coetzee could also go in the same direction. He says the full back has all the makings of an excellent sevens rugby player with the capability of moving up and playing in higher colours. Fixtures: UP-Tuks vs Wits – Friday 10:21 AM UP-Tuks vs Kosvies – Friday 12:55AM UP-Tuks vs UJ – Friday 16:35 PM UP-Tuks vs Maties – Saturday 9:37AM University of Free State Nickname: Kosvies Titles: 2012 (Margate Leg) & 2015 Star player to look out for: Chad Adams Kosvies which is coming into the tournament with one of the youngest sides says it wants to have fun and grow from the experience. The team have several exciting players including some that even played Varsity Cup rugby. Coach Andre Tredoux had this to say. “We always want to be competitive; we’ve got a younger side and we look forward to enjoy the tournament. It is important to enjoy the game and score some great tries.” Meanwhile captain Ethan Wentzel says the teams target is finishing in the top 2. “We are a young team, so we are looking forward to the tournament and try our best by finishing in the top 2. I personally want to lead by example and lead my team forward.” Fixtures: UWC vs Kosvies – Friday 11:05 AM UP-Tuks vs Kosvies – Friday 12:55 AM Madibaz vs Kosvies – Friday 15:29 PM NWU-Pukke vs Kosvies – Saturday 10:21 AM University of Witwatersrand Nickname: Wits Titles: N/A Star player to look out for: Keagan Lailvaux Several teams coming into the Varsity 7’s tournament have participated in the USSA (University Sport South Africa) 7’s rugby championships in September. Wits which were one of those teams are looking to build on the experience gained from the USSA tournament. Speaking to Varsity Sports, assistant coach of Wits rugby Kwanele Ngema says his team are hungry to get involved following the USSA games and the recent Rugby World Cup Sevens which was hosted in Cape Town. “We come in with a lot of confidence having learnt how to become a better team. Having hosted the Rugby World Cup Sevens, our players want to be in that environment with a vibrant, high intensity and high energy rugby. We couldn’t have asked for a better platform.” Fixtures: UP-Tuks vs Wits – Friday 10:21 AM NWU-Pukke vs Wits – Friday 14:01 PM UWC vs Wits – Friday 15:51 PM Madibaz vs Wits – Saturday 9:15 AM North-West University Nickname: Eagles Titles: N/A Star player to look out for: Kelvin Clark NWU-Pukke are coming into this tournament with a bounce in their step following victory at the USSA 7’s games. The University Sports of South Africa hosted a 7’s tournament in September and the team from the North West will be looking to build on that victory and surprise many in Pretoria. Varsity sports spoke to head coach Pieter van der Berg who says his team might be the dark horses. “”We just managed to win the USSA championships, some teams might consider us favourites, but 7’s is a brutal game and things can change quickly. But there is some form of confidence players will be coming in with in this competition.” Fixtures: UJ vs NWU-Pukke – Friday 10:43AM NWU-Pukke vs Wits – Friday 14:01 PM NWU-Pukke vs Maties – Friday 16:13 PM NWU-Pukke vs Kosvies – Saturday 10:21 AM University of Western Cape Nickname: UWC Titles: N/A Star player to look out for: Peter Williams © Another team looking to build from the USSA games is the University of Western Cape who came agonizingly close to glory when they lost the final against NWU-Pukke. With the valuable lessons and experience gained from last month’s tournament, coach Clement Trout believes they are equal to all the teams in the 7’s tournament. He says there are no clear favourites and that teams would be foolish to consider them as underdogs. “We lost in the final, so we’re hoping to be better and improve the best we can. We are excited to be participating and we will prepare the best we can and give it our all.” Fixtures: UWC vs Kosvies – Friday 11:05 AM UWC vs Maties – Saturday 13:39 PM UWC vs Wits – Friday 15:51 PM UWC vs UJ – Saturday 9:59 AM Nelson Mandela University Nickname: Madibaz Titles: N/A Star player to look out for;Kyle Cyster Finally, the Nelson Mandela University, also known as Madibaz says they come into the tournament as clear underdogs. Coach Zuko Ndlela says they will be coming in with a young team and new faces as several their experienced players are out on provincial duty. “We believe that we come as underdogs, we are always taken as such, but we are looking forward to showing our talents. Several our players are out due to provincial duties so we will be exposing new talent.” Meanwhile captain Kyle Cyster who will be the player to look out for says teams cannot take them lightly as they have nothing to lose as underdogs. “We have to stay in the fight and cannot give up, we are not scared of anyone.” Fixtures: Maties vs Madibaz – Friday 11:27 AM Maties vs Madibaz – Friday 13:17 PM Madibaz vs Kosvies – Friday 15:29 PM Madibaz vs Wits – Saturday 9:15 AM By: Nkosinathi Shazi

Undefeated throughout the tournament, Maties are the 2022 Varsity Netball champions after running out 68-55 victors over NWU in this year’s final in front of an enthusiastic home crowd in Stellenbosch. It was a case of fourth time lucky for the Maroon Machine after making it to the final two on three previous occasions. The Eagles are returning to Potchefstroom without their third title, after winning the competition in 2015 and 2016. Maties have now managed to clip the Eagles’ wings in their last five Varsity Netball meetings. It was a tight defensive game with Maties’ Syntiche Kabuya making life very difficult for Elmeré van den Bergh in the Eagle’s goal circle. And to add insult to injury, Maties took their power play five minutes into the game and raced to a 10-2 lead, making it very clear they are here to win their first Varsity Netball title, and deny NWU their third crown. After a slow start, the Eagles got some wind underneath their wings to draw level 15-all as the first 15 minutes closed out. The Maroon Machine steam-rolled their opponents in the second quarter, with the dynamic duo of Kabuya and Nicola Smith not giving the Eagles shooters any breathing space. NWU also started making some errors on defence that the Maties capitalised on with centre Shanidine Bezuidenhout pouncing on every loose ball. The all-important championship quarter was ultimately where the Maties took the game away from their opponents. The introduction of Nichole Taljaard was key, with the Maties’ goal attack immediately making her presence known and stamping her authority with lighting fast feet and hands. Sian Moore kept on marshalling her troops from the back, continuously waving her finger for “one more, one more!” while she kept the scoreboard ticking over for Maties. Not even NWU’s power play with four minutes to go could prevent the inevitable and make the Maties the undisputed champions of the 2022 Varsity Netball tournament. Sian Moore (Maties captain): “Things started very fast and we got a little bit complacent towards the end of the first quarter. Then we switched it up in the second and third quarters, realising we worked too hard for this to not go all out. The girls did well and I’m so proud of them.” Zanele Mdodana (Maties coach): “I still can’t believe it, I’m at a loss for words. We’ve been building up to this moment, the hard work that’s gone in, year in, year out. We knew today was our day and I can’t thank my girls enough, they completely blew me away!” Nicolene van Heerden (NWU captain): “We made too many mistakes today, and things didn’t go our way. I learned so much from this team, and it was a privilege to play with them.” Quarter scores: 15-15| 33-22 | 53-35 | 68-54 Player of the match: Sian Moore (Maties) Player of the tournament: Elmeré van den Bergh (NWU)

Varsity Netball has provided life-changing opportunities for the top netball players at South African universities since 2013. Bringing the individual campuses and supporters along for the ride has been part of the excitement. And this the mighty Orange Army of UJ has certainly done in bucket loads! The enthusiastic courtside support of the singing, dancing and orange wig-wearing supporters have spurred Bongi Msomi’s team on to their best results in the history of the competition. Varsity Sports The meaning of off-court support was even more evident during the last round-robin action of the 2022 Varsity Netball tournament in Bloemfontein when a wave of orange swept the Callie Human Hall. UJ won a nailbiter against Tuks to advance to the semi-final of the competition for the first time and sent the former champions packing. Before the Johannesburg team take on the Maroon Machine of Maties in Monday’s second semi-final for that coveted spot in the final, Varsity Sports wanted to find out what is behind the dedication of the Orange Army. UJ senior manager (clubs) Nompilo Zondi “After Covid, we have been trying to create a sense of belonging and sport is a unique environment that engages our community, even when they’re not on the court themselves. “UJ wasn’t known for its netball, and since they have been doing so much for the university, we wanted to show our appreciation. They are only representing themselves but the entire university student community. You’re also representing Johannesburg, your families and the staff members working at the universities. FNB UJ during round 6 of the Varsity Netball between the FNB UJ and FNB UP TUKS at Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein. 3 October 2022, Asem Engage – Hannes Naude “With all the support, when athletes step onto the court they wear their UJ badge with pride. They know that they are not alone. We want our team to know that whatever emotions they go through, we also go through them with them. Universities will testify about the mental challenges that students have to go through. And this way, supporters get a chance to be part of something they can be proud of. “It also fits into our strategy of enriching the student experience where students usually don’t feel part of the sports community unless they’re athletes. They create a unique experience for students as well as for players and staff. “Sport isn’t only about winning. It is about bringing people together.” Orange Army supporter Nkhanyiso Yeni “Our main goal is to go and support the girls. As an athlete, you can do the job on the court, but you also need the edge from the supporters whenever things aren’t going your way on the court. And that is where we come in as the Orange Army. “We’re not only there to watch netball but to support the players. It is part of our community culture where we support each other, no matter what the sports code. Depending on our schedules where students need to attend class or staff members need to perform their duties, we always try to be there for them. “We were raised to naturally support others with song and dance. Our goal is to be visible to the players when they step onto the court to know that we are there to support them. One of our most prominent group members is Super M, he is usually the big guy with the orange wig. “We go to these matches to keep the winning streak going, but we’re there for the mental support as well.” By Jürgen Smith