Round 3 of the Varsity Football campaign brought plenty of drama and movement on the log standings, with TUT climbing to the top of the table following a convincing 3-1 victory over CUT. In Johannesburg, UJ claimed Joburg derby bragging rights by edging Wits 1-0 in a tense encounbter, while UFS showed resilience on the road, securing maximum points with a hard-fought 2-1 win against DUT. Meanwhile, the clash between NWU and UP-Tuks ended without goals, as both sides walked away with a share of the spoils after a goalless stalemate.   Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches. Glen Mashimbye – (TUT Men’s Football) Glen Mashimbye again impressed with his tireless work rate and constant threat to the CUT defence. His 2nd-minute strike, a composed first-time finish from TUT’s opening attack, set the tone for the entire encounter.  Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza – (UJ Men’s Football) Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza’s midfield command earned him a third consecutive FNB Player of the Match award. The UJ youngster performed well, his ball distribution to the defense, winning second balls and stopping Wits’ supply into the box was enough to make him a standout player in the derby   Jarome Jansen – (UFS Men’s Football) The standout performer on the day was UFS’s number 10, Jerome Jansen, who displayed exceptional awareness and leadership, constantly pulling his team together and dictating play. While there were several strong performances across the pitch, Jansen’s influence made him a clear choice for man of the match.   Leathan Croats – (UP-Tuks Men’s Football) UP-Tuks goalkeeper Leathan Croats, wearing jersey number 13, stood tall as the last line of defense. He produced a commanding display, holding off some of the best shots from NWU with quick reflexes and sharp positioning. Time after time, Croats denied his opponents, frustrating their attackers and keeping his team in the contest. His calm presence in the box and ability to read the game made him one of the standout performers of the match.   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.

UFS Kovsies are gearing up for another thrilling season when Varsity Netball 2025 kick-off this weekend in Stellenbosch. With a record five titles since the tournament’s inception in 2013, the Bloemfontein-based side has built a reputation for disciplined, exciting netball. Assistant coach Karla Pretorius said preparation has been thorough, with depth across the squad a major focus. “From the start of the year we’ve worked hard to build depth within the group. We now have at least two players in every position, which is different to last season and gives us a lot of confidence." “At the end of the day it’s about precision when we have the ball, staying consistent, and making the most of every opportunity. We’re very happy with our preparation and the mentality is clear, everything we do is to lift that trophy.” For captain Reratilwe Lestoalo, the goal is about more than just winning. She points to the team’s new motto for 2025 -All minus one is equal to nothing.  “If we’re not all in this together, we won’t achieve what we want to achieve. Despite wanting to win and defend our title, our main goal this season is to be consistent, not just one player standing out, but consistent as a team from the first game through to the playoffs.” Lestoalo said there is a buzz within the squad as the first match approaches. “There’s a lot of excitement. Every new season comes with its own surprises, and we can’t wait to see what lies ahead.” With a blend of experienced stars and young players eager to step up, Kovsies are ready to take on all challengers. Guided by Pretorius and head coach Burta de Kock, and led by captains Lestoalo and Xandri Fourie, the Bloemfontein outfit is determined to make an impact from the very first whistle. UFS Kovsies (subject to change): Liame de Lange, Thina Speelman, Elri Groenewald, Reratilwe Letsoalo, Elene Vosloo, Xandri Fourie, Mienke Delport, Asanele Malgas, Rolene Streutker, Charne van Vuuren, Chanique Eyberg, Mari du Raan, Thando Mokoena, Siya Sambo, Leane Otto, McKyla van der Walt. Full fixture list HERE .    More information on tickets HERE .     By Jurgen Smith.

After pushing the 2024 final against UFS Kovsies into extra time, UJ is ready to finally put their hands on the trophy when the first whistle is blown for Varsity Netball 2025.   Head coach and former Protea captain Bongi Msomi said they are planning to use the grit and determination shown in the defeat to Kovsies to their advantage this year.   “We always want to give it our all, despite the results and the game against Kovsies proved that.   “The preparation has been good and the mood in the UJ camp is always the best. The group gets along really well, and it makes things easy for us as coaches. I am expecting good netball and, exciting up and coming talent taking up space.”   She added that the squad is a good mix of new players and those who have played in the competition before.   “I think they are all fantastic talent and it will be good to see how they take on Varsity netball individually and as a group. I am really glad they get a chance to showcase their talent in the competition as not every student-athlete get to do that.”   Msomi said the importance of Varsity netball as the breeding ground for the national team and the development of the sport in South Africa, cannot be underestimated.   “Universities offer bursaries to top netballers from high school and club systems. This means that they get to use their high performance systems to holistically take care of the amazing talent in the country. The setup allows student athletes to be looked after for three years and longer, continuously developing their skills on and off the court. By the time Varsity netball starts, it is to showcase the talent on the big stage.   “The most important part about this tournament, is that it doesn't only look after netball, but also academics. There are academic requirements to be met by all student-athletes to be eligible to play Varsity Netball. If requirements aren't met, the athlete can't be part of the tournament. This forces all athletes to balance both sport and academics, which prepares them better for their future.   “The national side then gets to work with well-equipped individuals who are keen to take on their duties on a national level, considering the challenges they overcame as student athletes.”   UJ provisional squad (subject to change):  Juanike Steinmann, Sesandile Ngubane, Kubura Abubakar, Makayla Edgecomb, Mariska O'Connor, Justene Henn, Amy Hollard, Tarle Mathe, Minette Erasmus, Luyanda Msomi, Noxolo Mdlalose, Makhosazana Nkambule, Keneilwe Seopa, Yanke Broodryk, Kamogelo Motsepe, Cornelia Mupenda, Sli Ngcobo, Amahle Mbatha, Tassnique Norman. FIXTURES and TICKETS HERE.

The Madibaz are heading into Varsity Netball 2025 with a squad that blends youthful energy with seasoned campaigners. Coach Jeanie Steyn believes her side has what it takes to challenge for a top-four finish. Steyn, who took over as head coach last season, says the transition from player to coach has been both challenging and rewarding.   “It’s very different being off the court and sitting in the hot seat. I have big shoes to fill, but with the support of former coach Lana Krige, I’ve been learning every day. One of the big lessons from last year was focusing on our own strengths and building strong systems that give players the tools to handle whatever comes their way.”   This philosophy has shaped Madibaz’s 2025 preparations. With many first timers in the squad, Steyn has emphasised processes and game systems that form the backbone of every match plan.   “There’s a lot of anticipation and excitement in the team. We want to make the semi-finals and finish in the top four.”   The Madibaz squad features nine newcomers, alongside seven players who know what Varsity Netball demands. Four of the fresh faces were part of the USSA team, so they bring experience of competing at a high level, said Steyn.   “It’s a good balance. We have players who understand the intensity, and new ones who bring eager energy.”   Among the standouts are defenders Hanniska van Vuuren and Juanita van Tonder, with both invited to the SA trials earlier this month. Van Tonder’s selection for the national squad touring Australia and New Zealand in September is a boost for the Madibaz.   “They are rising stars, and I’m excited to see their confidence grow throughout this competition,” Steyn said.   The squad also includes five players from TNL’s Aloes and one from the Comets, bringing valuable continuity and chemistry into the team.   With a mix of promising newcomers and experienced leaders, the Madibaz believe they are primed for a competitive campaign, said Steyn.   “We’re building something strong. This season is about combining our systems, energy, and talent to deliver results on court.”   Madibaz squad (subject to change): Kaylin Coetzer, Juanita van Tonder, Bronwyn Goosen, Anke Britz, Hanniska van Vuuren, Simone Louw, Keagile Magadla, Luyanda Tsotetsi, Sibongokuhle Mnqayi, Mbali Gunyazile, Edon Snyman, Kelly du Toit, Sbongile Gwaxu, Leila Nel, Samuelinah Ndizana, Inge van Eyk.     Full fixture list HERE .     More information on tickets HERE .

The Joburg derby lit up the UJ Soweto Stadium as hosts UJ edged out the high-flying Wits with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Round 3 of Varsity Football 2025. Meanwhile, TUT climbed to the summit of the log after securing a convincing 3-1 win over CUT in Bloem. UFS also claimed maximum points with a 2-1 triumph against DUT at the Harry Gwala Stadium, while the clash at NWU Mahikeng Stadium ended in a tense stalemate between NWU and UP-Tuks.   UJ 1-0 Wits UJ Men’s Football claimed city bragging rights in a fiercely contested Joburg derby, edging past Wits Men’s Football with a narrow 1-0 victory in Round 3 of the Varsity Football competition. A decisive 12th-minute penalty proved to be the difference on the night, as UJ held their ground to hand Wits their first defeat of the season in front of a packed and vibrant crowd at the UJ Soweto Stadium. Tumelo Machete was the hero for UJ, calmly converting a penalty after a handball by Wits' Duane Bennett inside the box. While it was the only goal of the game, both teams kept the pressure on, with their goalkeepers, UJ’s Kyle Van Rensburg and Wits’ Lwando Mvinjana, busy throughout the first half. Just as the first half drew to a close, a minor blackout added to the derby drama, as two of the floodlights at UJ Soweto Stadium went out. This caused a more than 30-minute delay before the second half could get underway. Once play resumed, the match was a relentless battle. Despite Wits' coach Thando Zulu making an immediate substitution to shake things up, UJ's defence remained solid. UJ goalkeeper Kyle Van Rensburg was particularly impressive, making several crucial saves to deny Wits a late equalizer. After 97 minutes of gripping end-to-end football, the final whistle was met with thunderous cheers from the UJ home crowd, celebrating a hard-fought victory. The result not only strengthened UJ’s push for a coveted top four spot in the Varsity Football standings but also brought an emphatic end to Wits’ impressive winning streak.   SCORERS UJ: Tumelo Machete   Man of the Match: Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ)   TEAMS: UJ : Kyle Van Rensburg, Sanele Mncube, Siyabonga Nhlapo, Yasidu Lifa, Karabo Modisane, Teboho Makhalanyane, Thabo Moshikere, Tumelo Machete, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Tshepo Mosieleng, Keletso Sekhwela. Wits : Lwando Mvinjana, Obakeng Leping, Duane Bennett, Tebogo Masemola, Simphiwe, Mabena, Karabo Tsoane, Prince Manku, Tshepho Mothiba, Kaihil Cloete, Mduduzi Ndaba, Paballo Dladla.   DUT 1-2 UFS It was a crucial bottom-of-the-table encounter at the Harry Gwala Stadium as DUT hosted UFS in a match where both sides were desperate for points. The game began at a cautious pace, with neither team able to take control early on, though it was the visiting UFS side that appeared more composed and looked the more threatening as they gradually settled into the contest. Just after the 20-minute mark, the deadlock was finally broken as UFS took the lead. A dangerous run ended with one of their players being brought down right on the edge of the box, leaving the referee with little choice but to award a free kick. Stepping up with confidence, Iviwe Dyabaza produced a moment of sheer brilliance, curling his effort into the top corner and leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. Just 2 minutes later, the visitors furthered their lead as they crowded the box of the opposition Jerome Jansen finding the back of the net with a tap in. The halftime whistle came as a lifesaver for DUT as their defence was in sixes and sevens, battling with the away team’s attack, 2-0 to UFS at the break. The second half started off on a high note as both teams were looking to control the game. The 70th minute saw another spectacular set piece, in the way of the home side, a beautiful goal from Nkululeko Nkosi, from a free kick which somehow found its way in the back of the net as the home team pulled one back, 2–1 to UFS.   SCORERS DUT : Nkululeko Nkosi UFS : Iviwe Dyabaza, 23’ Jerome Jansen.   Man of the Match:  Iviwe Dyabaza (UFS)   TEAMS: DUT:  Kwanele Mtolo, Luyanda Ntuli, Nkululeko Nkosi, Xolani Mkhonza, Sifundo Ngema, Kwanele Vilakazi, Sbonelo Ngidi, Phiwayinkosi Mchunu, Iviwe Sodidi, Fanelesibonge Ndwandwe, Ndumiso Khali. UFS:  Lethokuhle Makhaya, Philani Zondi, Tshepo Ndlovu, Samkelo Naledi, Jarome Jansen, Ben Kraai, Jose Mondi, Iviwe Dyabaza, Kwethemba Ndlovu, Kagiso Semenya, Adolf Radingoana.   CUT 1-3 TUT   TUT Men’s Football claimed their second win of the Varsity Football campaign on Thursday night with a 3-1 victory over the CUT Men’s Football at the CUT Stadium in Bloemfontein. Despite the scoreline, TUT had to work hard for the three points, but they showed why they are such a well-drilled unit and why they proudly wear four stars on their chests. The Red Army got off to a flying start, taking the lead as early as the 2nd minute when Glen Mashimbye scored with their very first attack. It wasn’t long before the advantage was doubled, thanks to a neat finish from Lucky Raphala. CUT pulled one back when Mzwakhe Shabalala converted from the penalty spot, giving the home side some much-needed momentum after conceding twice so early. That goal settled the nerves and CUT managed to see out the remainder of the half trailing by just one, despite relentless pressure from the four-time champions. After the break, TUT kept up the intensity, but CUT looked a lot more composed both in possession and in defence. However, the pressure eventually told when Lindokuhle Nyandeni restored TUT’s two-goal cushion from the spot, after a reckless challenge by CUT goalkeeper Siseko Faku. Although CUT fought bravely until the end, their shaky start ultimately proved to be the difference between the two sides.   SCORERS CUT : Mzwakhe Shabalala TUT: Glen Mashimbye, Lucky Raphala, Lindokuhle Nyandeni   Man of the Match:  Glen Mashimbye (TUT)   TEAMS: CUT:  Siseko Faku, Siyabonga Mzelem, Thabang Mokoena (c), Khotso Mphene, Alwande Sibiya, Polokeho Letlema, Tiisetso Mpholoana, Nkosingiphile Lubisi, Mpho Ntabi, Moeletsi Khumalo, Mzwakhe Shabalala. TUT:  Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Mekdiwe Ncensya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja (captain), Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Sphamandla Motlhale, Lindokuhle Nyandeni, Lucky Raphala, Glen Mashimbye, Precious Radithomo Mohale.   NWU 0-0 UP-Tuks  The tightly contested battle between NWU and UP-Tuks ended without a breakthrough, as both teams failed to convert their chances and were forced to share the spoils in a goalless 0-0 draw after 90 minutes of football. From the opening whistle, NWU controlled possession and dictated much of the play in the first half. Their midfield pressed forward with intent, keeping the Tuks defense under pressure. Despite their dominance, they were unable to convert chances into goals, largely due to the heroics of Tuks goalkeeper, Leathan Croats. Wearing jersey number 13, Croats produced a commanding display, using sharp reflexes and smart positioning to deny NWU on multiple occasions. At halftime, the teams went into the break deadlocked at 0-0, with NWU’s dominance in ball possession not reflected on the scoreboard. The second half saw more of the same as NWU searched for a breakthrough, but their efforts were consistently thwarted. As the match wore on, frustration grew for the home side. NWU threw numbers forward in the final minutes, but Croats stood tall in goal, frustrating their attackers and ensuring his side remained in contention until the final whistle. The game ended with honors even, but it was Croats’ performance that shone brightest, earning him the plaudits of the day. Man of the Match: Leathan Croats (UP-Tuks)   TEAMS:   NWU:  Ethan Mokwena, Knowledge Muleya, Lucky Letwaba, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Lucas Seromo, Pascual Tivane, Thabang Majoro, Momelezi Mngati, Smanga Twala, Oatlhotse Ditlhobolo, and Reatlegile Kgosithebe.  UP-Tuks: Leathan Croats, Khotatso Balepile, Edward Rankwe, Damian Overmeyer, Nkosana Shabalala, Paballo Mamabolo, Joshua Wood, Euan Jenneker, Samukelo Ngodela, Matome Rangata, Risen Albert.      Fixtures:  HERE    Tickets:  HERE.

CUT Men’s Football remain confident and upbeat ahead of their crucial Varsity Football third-round clash against the TUT at home in Bloemfontein on Thursday. After a 4-1 loss to Wits in round one, followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat to NWU-Mahikeng last week, things haven’t been easy. But there is still a sense of excitement in the camp, especially knowing their next game will be played in front of their passionate home supporters. CUT showed a much-improved performance in Mahikeng, and that display has kept belief high within the squad. Centre-back Alwande Sibiya, who put in a strong performance, said the team fought hard against the former champions and that everyone deserves a pat on the back. “I must give credit to the squad, including the technical team. We all performed well in that game, and it was a solid team effort, even though we didn’t manage to score,” Sibiya said. “Honestly, everyone contributed to our performance, and I’m really pleased with how we worked together. The losses were tough, especially given the high expectations at the start of the season, and both games were away, which made it even more challenging.” Sibiya added that playing in front of their home fans is something the team really cherish, and they are determined not to let their loyal supporters and classmates down. “We’re excited to finally have our first home game against TUT this week. Playing in front of our home crowd for the first time always gives us a boost, and you know they’ll be cheering us on. We’re feeling confident and clear that once we get our game plan clicking, we’ll start seeing the results we want.” Thursday night’s eagerly anticipated clash at CUT Stadium will kick off at 18:30.   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.

Veteran TUT shot stopper Luyanda Mandindi is looking to continue his impressive run in Varsity Football 2025. Though he acknowledges that they did not start well last season, the Red Army goalie has not conceded a goal this season and says that is what pushes him to do even better. “We really started very well compared to last year, we did not have depth in our squad, and we did not demand more from the lads. This year we have core players and depth so we will do well. My plan is to keep at least five clean sheets because it brings confidence in the team,” said Mandindi. “We are gunning for a fifth star, we need to always stay positive and push to win all games.” Varsity Football has paved the way to professional football over the years, for Mandindi the goal is still to make it professional. The Tembisa born keeper is inspired by Mzansi’s greatest Itumeleng Khune and just like his icon, Mandindi started playing football as a striker before being the trusted soldier in between the sticks. “It all started back home in Tembisa, I remember I was only 10-years old and playing for a team called Mighty Tigers, one day the keeper could not come for training. The coach asked who I can trust in goal and raised my hand,” he said. “From there everything went accordingly, all I know now is being a goalkeeper. Although it demands a lot I am enjoying it. The aim is to make it professional and play in the PSL. Varsity Football is important because it gives us an imperative platform to showcase our talent. It is an easy way to the PSL.” “My debut was nice even though I had mixed emotions because it was my first time and I had to fill the big boots of Skhumbuzo Mncube whom had done greatly in the previous seasons. Football changed my life a lot, it was the first playing on TV and that was dream come true for me. “The game against CUT we are looking forward to collecting all three points and score more goals so we can go on top of the log. This only thing that kept me going is last year’s performance, it was really bad, so I had to reflect and look back and see where I went wrong. I conceded a lot of goals, so this year is for me to redeem myself and remind people who am I.” concluded Mandindi.   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.     By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Wits are making a strong statement in the Varsity Football 2025 campaign with the new-look side proving exactly why they’re back in the competition, returning after a long absence. The Educated Footballers announced their comeback in style with a thumping 4-1 win over CUT in their first game, courtesy of a red card that turned the tide in their favour. They sealed their six-point haul with a convincing 2-0 victory over DUT, a team that had lost their opener but was expected to put up a strong fight. "It's important to start well. We haven't been in the tournament for two years, so we missed out on what the tournament is about, not just the fans but how the tournament should be played and certain situations we've experienced." said coach Thanduxolo Zulu "The boys are developing a feel for this tournament. First games can be tricky for them, and they were very anxious. Playing in front of a beautiful crowd can be overwhelming, but I love the character we've shown so far. We played well, not rushing going forward and choosing the right spaces to attack. We took the game away from the opposition, which is very good for us.” Zulu highlighted the importance of experience, noting that many of his players like Kgwadi Molepo and Tebogo Masemola who have played in the ABC Motsepe League, which is helping them adapt to the high-intensity nature of Varsity Football. "It's credit to the university for their support, and it's essential for us to have players who are used to playing intense games and high-consequence matches. Varsity Football is about in terms of mini actions so you're attacking and now you have to defend and that's ABC Motsepe League type of football,” he said. “The players are used to in terms of playing intense games, to play for the results, whatever you can get you play for it also used to suffering which we did in the last game where we had a lead and kept a good shape."   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE. By Andisiwe Sigoxo.

The much anticipated Joburg derby between UJ and Wits is back, and the city is buzzing with excitement. The Varsity Football 2025 weekday matches are far from a snooze-fest, as tickets for this epic clash disappeared faster than free pizza on campus, selling out a full four days before kick-off and leaving fans eagerly counting down to what promises to be a thrilling showdown. The Orange Army and the Wits men have reignited a rivalry so intense, the match got staff and students talking. Derbies are not just games, they are a cultural phenomenon, a beautiful blend of history, bragging rights, and pure, unadulterated passion. While other weekday matches in South Africa might struggle to fill a stadium, this one has got all the hallmarks of a global football spectacle. It has become the main topic of conversation in lecture halls, office kitchens, and even family dinner tables. Social media is on fire, and fans such as Mosa Kgotse and Neo Mantoro say they cannot wait for the electrifying atmosphere at the UJ Soweto Stadium. “I’m very excited yet nervous about this clash. I can’t predict a clear score, but I think Wits might surprise us, given their recent performances. Nevertheless, I am rooting for UJ ALL THE WAY!" says Kgotse, a UJ staff member. “We are winning this one – Wits’ two wins mean nothing in this game,” says Mantoro. The stakes? Higher than ever! Both UJ and Wits were missing from the 2024 campaign, making this clash a grand return. Wits, having been absent for two seasons, are starting their 2025 run like a house on fire, sitting pretty at the top of the table with two straight wins. Meanwhile, UJ's men's team is looking to climb the log, currently holding four points after two matches (1 win against UFS and 1 draw against NWU). The Orange Army will be playing their hearts out to close the gap, also given their home ground advantage. This match promises all the classic derby thrills, a unique, electric atmosphere, intense rivalry, and fanbases so passionately they could power the entire city. While some historical derbies were fueled by old rivalries and social tensions, the modern UJ-Wits derby is all about friendly banter and mutual respect.   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.   By: Collen N. Maepa

Varsity Netball 2025 is here with the top eight universities battling it out for the coveted trophy. UP-Tuks are entering a new chapter under the guidance of newly appointed head coach, Amanda Mynhardt. The Pretoria side reached the semi-finals in last year, but head into this campaign with a reshaped squad after losing several key players to national duty. Despite the changes, Mynhardt is confident in the group she has assembled. “I am very privilege to step into the new role as head coach of Tuks netball. It’s a dynamic and competitive environment, players are willing to work hard and for me that’s a reward as a coach to work with players that commit to the program. It is an honour to be part of the team.” The challenge has been significant, with six players from Tuks’ high performance group called up to the South African U21 side, including stars like Phophi Nematangari and Kyla Dames. To keep the team competitive, Mynhardt said she worked on building squad depth and settling new combinations, and she is eager to see how the new faces step up. “I am looking forward to see how these new players will go out and play, I am excited to what they do with the opportunity and if they step up and that will show me we built squad depth for the future.” Tuks open their 2025 campaign against Madibaz before facing newcomers Varsity College. “Every team goes into the competition to win it and we will take it week by week and game for game and work our way to the finish. Every game is a tough one in Varsity Netball. I am excited for the opening clash.” UP-Tuks squad (subject to change): Georgia de Jongh, Mila Dijkstra, Erin Girodo, Zionné Grobler, Megan Holland, Elri Jacobs, Ilani Klopper, Juané Kruger, Devonne Lansberg, Lebo Moremme, Thando Ngcobo, Caroline Paul, Nompha Raphalalani, Tinstwalo Sithole, Anja van den Heever, Venece van Vollenhoven, Marichelle Visagie, Skye Watson, Jamie Williamson. Tuks opening matches 24 August: Tuks vs Madibaz, 5pm, Coetzenburg Indoor Centre, live on SuperSport 25 August: Varsity College vs Tuks, 3pm, Coetzenburg Indoor Centre, live on SuperSport   Full fixture list HERE .    More information on tickets HERE .     by Lehlogonolo Ditshego

The countdown is almost over, and as the first whistle approaches for Varsity Netball 2025, the NWU team is stepping onto the court with more than just ambition. They are bringing months of grit, strategy, and unity into the competition.
   Head coach Elsunet du Plessis said the team is prepared to rise to the challenge after an intense build-up phase.   “Our team are ready and excited for Varsity Netball. The players have put in the hard work, and we are prepared to compete at a high level.”   Training sessions have sharpened both ends of the court, with a particular focus on defensive structures and attacking combinations. “We have worked a lot on our defensive systems, but also our attacking connections to make sure we can transition smoothly down court,” Du Plessis indicated.   The team has set its sights on surpassing last year’s performance, in which they were eliminated in the semi-finals. They believe they have the depth to push further this season. Du Plessis adds that consistency will be key.   “Every quarter matters. We have spoken a lot about keeping composure under pressure and making sure we finish strong.”   Players are also motivated by the opportunity to inspire future netballers. The squad has spoken openly about wanting their performance to reflect not just their hard work, but also their pride in representing NWU on a national stage.   While the tournament promises fierce competition, Du Plessis said the team’s goals are clear and grounded.   “We want to stay competitive in every match, keep raising the standard of netball within our team, and most importantly, never give up.”   NWU squad (subject to change): Sunel Smit, Jaime Matfield, Jade Egwatu, Andrya Joubert, Tlotlang Mokomela, Mia van den Berg, Jessica Matjiu, Jomari Lübbe, Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Casey Davids, Cellonika van den Berg, Rayvoné Leander, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Martiné Jordaan, Vivian Venancio, Liané van Lochem, Amia Roux, Karla du Preez, and Jeané Visser.   by Phenyo Mokgothu   Full fixture list HERE .

UFS are back on the road this week for round three of Varsity Football, taking on DUT in Pietermaritzburg. The Blues head into this crucial clash with two main objectives: to score their first goal of the competition and to secure their first win. UFS suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to the UJ Orange Army in Bloemfontein last week, in a match that looked set to end goalless until the final minute. The Bloemfontein side certainly created plenty of chances, especially at home, but were unable to find the back of the net. Samkelo Nakedi, who troubled the UJ defence throughout, believes the team has all the ingredients for goals but may need a slightly different approach. “Looking back at the past two games, I think the team has realised that we create plenty of opportunities, and it’s time we start capitalising on them if we want results,” said Nakedi. “Our next fixture is crucial away from home again which calls for a different kind of determination and mindset. I believe my teammates and everyone in the camp remain positive." “Even after the loss to the Orange Army, our performances were solid. We gave it our all, and despite lapses in concentration in the dying moments, the character, belief, and commitment from the team and technical staff are clear. “With five games left, we’re focused on putting in the work needed to secure points and, ultimately, aim for the championship. Going into Thursday’s game, our focus is on improving our finishing, staying consistent, and doing the right things on the field.”   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.