Despite some challenges, Wits are ready to show what they are made of in Varsity Netball 2025. It is their third campaign, after making their debut in the 2023 tournament.   The Joburg outfit is building up to the competition with a concern of losing three instrumental players to national duties, including captain Gianda Prinsloo. Prinsloo, Luane Smith, and Ametisse Bandu will depart after the opening two games to represent South Africa at the Netball World Youth Cup 2025. Vice-captain Philasande Ntuli will take over and lead the team in Prinsloo's absence.   Wits head coach Elsje Jordaan acknowledged that playing without their experienced players will be a challenge. They still see the tournament as a great learning experience.   "The Wits netball program is a young program, so for us to take on these big gun teams is a great learning experience and a wonderful opportunity for us to see where our program is and the growth that has happened over the last years."   Wits will start the tournament facing tough opponents. First up is defending champions Kovsies in the first bumper weekend, followed by Maties a day later.   Jordaan expressed the realistic chances of her team.     "UJ field Proteas players, Kovsies field Proteas players. They got the luxury of those types of players so you must be realistic when you compare players with players. It is nonetheless an opportunity for players to do well and see where they at, measuring themselves against top class players. It's very tough to lose three players out of a team of seven. I think we can still maintain our position and if we can improve on that, it will be an absolute bonus."   Wits squad (subject to change):  Alix Horn, Amy Horn, Amber Marshall, Ametisse Bandu, Anshe Roos, Giada Prinsloo, Luane Smith, Mikhe van der Watt, Nomhle Hope Sibiya, Oratile Mokone, Philasande Ntuli, Shani Mokken, Sabrina Harron, Zanele Soviya, Phozisa Ramncwana, Giuliana Vieira.   by Andisiwe Sigoxo   Full fixture list HERE .      More information on tickets HERE .

NWU Men’s Football will put itself to the test against one of Varsity Football’s leading top four contenders when they host UP-Tuks in a highly anticipated Round 3 clash of this year’s campaign. Fresh from a 1–0 home victory over the CUT, NWU head into the clash with confidence but also with the awareness that the level of competition is about to rise. Coach Nkululeko Malgas says his team’s identity will remain unchanged despite the challenge ahead. “We don’t normally change our ways. We listen to what the match is saying and respond during the match. We know how we play, they know how we play, but it’s up to them how they are going to plan,” said Malgas. “We work more as a group, and goals should come from across the squad.” For the captain, scoring the decisive winner in the previous match was an unforgettable and deeply special moment.  “Scoring the winning goal against CUT was an incredible moment for me and my teammates. As the captain, I must set the tone with my performance,” he said. Looking ahead to Tuks, he acknowledged the weight of the contest. “We know they are a very strong team with a great reputation, so the pressure is there. But the guys are in a positive mood, we understand the challenges ahead of this fixture, and we are motivated and prepared to give our best on the field to get great results for our fans,” he added.  “With our own NWU fans, it’s like having an extra player on the field cheering us on. Sometimes, top performance is what pleases the supporters besides the goals scored. I am happy as long as the last column on the log moves.” As NWU gears up for what is expected to be one of their toughest assignments of the season, the highly anticipated contest against Tuks presents a golden opportunity for the side to showcase their quality, resilience, and determination, while also proving that they have what it takes to compete among the elite teams in this year’s competition.   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.   By: Phenyo Mokgothu

Maties Netball head coach Sasha-Lee Petersen believes her side has invested tremendous effort and hard work in their preparation for the Varsity Netball 2025 campaign. The Cape Winelands outfit will be tested as the tournament’s bumper-to-bumper fixtures get underway this weekend at the Maties Coetzenburg Indoor Centre in Stellenbosch.   Petersen expressed confidence in her youthful squad, emphasizing that despite their age and relative inexperience, they possess the talent, energy, and determination to establish themselves as a formidable force to be reckoned with throughout the season.   “The team is looking really good and well prepared, and we've got quite a young and strong team with some new faces who are bringing fresh energy to the court,” said Petersen.   “The group has had an incredible work ethic over the last few weeks, and the chemistry among the players is building with every practice. Everyone is excited, motivated and ready to bring it in this campaign.”   Petersen highlighted that the team’s preparation has been nothing short of excellent, describing it as both intense and highly focused.   She explained that the players have been putting in consistent hard work, not only sharpening their technical and tactical skills but also placing strong emphasis on building cohesion and strengthening their overall unity as a team.   “My coaching staff has done a brilliant job working on our strengths and areas we can improve on,” she said.   “We've had really good matches and training over the last few weeks. As a first-time coach, going into this competition with a whole new team, if I compare it to USSA a month and a half ago we definitely went back to the drawing board.   “We hope to improve on our synergy in the team and more disciplined play to minimise unforced errors and maximise our scoring opportunities.”   With Maties determined to push for the top spot in this year’s campaign, Petersen reflected on the team’s goals for the season, emphasizing that their ultimate aim is to achieve success they can proudly give back to Stellenbosch University.   “You're going to see a more cohesive and confident Maties team. Expect to see a team that fights for every single ball and never gives up,” she adds.   “That's the ultimate goal and it's what we have been working toward every single day. We know the competition will be tough, but we believe in our abilities and in each other. We're committed to giving our absolute best and playing the kind of netball that will make our university and all our supporters and loved ones proud.”   Maties squad (subject to change): Hannah Kriel, Michelle van der Merwe, Lara Steenkamp, Catelyne Nelson, Hannah Olivier, Shanidiné Bezuidenhout, Lara Ehlers, Anke Stofberg, Jana Martin, Lize Rossouw, Syntiche Kabuya, Juane Maass, Kristen Mc Gregor, Thabisa Yekani, Bianca Odendaal, Surie Kotze, and Chloe Parsadh. Full fixture list HERE .   More information on tickets HERE .   by Ayanda Frances Felem

After spending their debut season last year on the road without any home games, DUT Men’s Football made their first home appearance at a packed Harry Gwala Stadium against TUT where they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat down in Pietermaritzburg, KZN. One of the outstanding performers in that match, left-winger Iviwe Sodidi, said the feeling of playing at home in KZN at the Harry Gwala Stadium was amazing and praised the outstanding support from fans. “Playing at Harry Gwala for DUT's first game in KZN in the Varsity Football competition felt amazing. There was a lot of energy, the fans were excited, it was a great start to the competition” said Sodidi. The young star winger displayed fantastic dribbling skills and step-overs, taking on players from the left flank a couple of times in DUT’s season opener, proving his ability as a skillful player which he has disclosed that it is inspired by his local idol young Orlando Pirates sensation, Relobogile Mofokeng. “My dribbling and my step overs and taking on players is inspired by Relebogile Mofokeng. He uses his skills amazingly on the pitch,” he said. “I personally improve these skills by practicing a lot, focusing on ball control and confidence on the field. When I take on a player, I think about how I'll beat them, I look for spaces and make quick decisions to play confidently.” The 20-year-old also praised their new coach Zipho Dlangalala, adding that the tactician’s addition to the team has boosted the squad and as well as his individual performance. “Coach Zipho's arrival has helped me and the team a lot,” he added. “He has brought in new tactics and encourages us to improve as players. He really works hard with us to improve our skills and teamwork on the field.” DUT are back at the Harry Gwala stadium this week Thursday when they take on wounded UFS squad.   Fixtures:   HERE   Tickets:   HERE.   By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

As the country’s top student-athletes prepare to take the court for Varsity Netball 2025, excitement is building for what promises to be another thrilling season. From seasoned international stars to rising young prospects, this year’s competition is stacked with talent. With the action tipping off on 24 August, here are some of the standout players to keep your eye on throughout the campaign. Rolene Streutker – UFS Kovsies Arguably the most feared shooter in the competition, Rolene Streutker returns after a dominant 2024 campaign. The Proteas star was voted FNB Player of the Tournament and recently the Netball Super League Player of the Year for 2025. Streutker’s ability to rack up points and control the circle will once again make the Kovsies serious title contenders. Cornelia Mupenda – UJ UJ’s last line of defence is in the safe hands of Cornelia Mupenda, a Namibian international who continues to thrive on the domestic and international stage. After joining the Singapore Super League earlier this year and winning the TNL 2025 with the Golden Fireballs, Mupenda brings elite-level experience to an already competitive UJ squad. Sunel Smit - NWU NWU goal shooter Sunel Smit was voted as the Suzuki Players' Player of the Tournament last season. There is no better stamp approval than from your peers so expect Sunel to once again be a force for Eagles. She represented the Baby Proteas (u21) in 2024 and was instrumental in leading Team South Africa to gold at the AUSC Region 5 Games in 2022.   Phophi Nematangari - Tuks The Baby Proteas captain led the South African under-21 team to a 3-0 win over Jamaica's youth team in the recent test series and they also won the Netball World Youth Cup Qualification Tournament in Tshwane where Phophi was named the tournament's best mid-court player. Under her leadership the national u21 side have now won nine consecutive matches. Look out for her to be as impactful when the Stripe Generation take to the court in Varsity Netball 2025. Hanniska van Vuuren – Madibaz   Madibaz captain Hanniska van Vuuren brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to her side. A gold medalist with the South African U19 team at the Region V Games, she also featured in last year’s victorious CUCSA Games campaign. As a key figure in Madibaz's structure, expect Van Vuuren’s leadership and versatility to play a major role in their 2025 run.   Syntiche Kabuya – Maties The veteran goalkeeper and Maties captain Syntiche Kabuya has already made waves at national level. She was selected for the SPAR Proteas squad at the 2024 FAST5 Netball World Series and also featured in the Vitality Netball Nations Cup earlier this year. With elite experience and commanding presence in the circle, Kabuya will be central to Maties' title ambitions.   Alix Horn – Wits A stalwart in the Wits defence, Alix Horn impressed last year and continues to develop her game after competing for the Boababs in the Telkom Netball League (TNL). Horn’s athleticism and game reading ability make her one of the toughest defenders to face this season. Wits also boasts a powerful group of U21 national players in Giada Prinsloo, Luane Smith, Ametisse Bandu, and Philasande Ntuli who have all represented South Africa at junior level. Their presence gives Wits impressive depth and showcases the team’s focus on developing next-generation talent.   As the 2025 Varsity Netball season prepares to showcase some of South Africa’s brightest talents, these players will no doubt be instrumental in shaping the outcome of this year’s campaign, but  you can be sure that several new players will emerge as the stars of tomorrow.   Watch all the games live on SuperSport.   FIXTURES HERE .

Varsity College will make their much anticipated debut in the 2025 edition of Varsity Netball and it will be a baptism of fire when the whistle is blown on the first bumper weekend of Varsity Netball 2025 at the Maties Coetzenburg Indoor Centre in Stellenbosch. The newcomers will begin their campaign facing powerhouse NWU (Sunday 24 August, 15:00), before meeting former champions UP-Tuks in another challenging encounter (Monday 25 August, 15:00).   Pic via @vcsportlife   Head coach Janine du Toit says they worked hard to get into the top tier of Varsity Netball for the first time, and they are excited for the 2025 competition.   “The team must give their best at all time. We have the skills, determination and heart to take on every match to the best of our abilities. The players are very excited and nervous for the unknown. The Varsity Netball platform is huge compared to other competition and matches we have played.”   She added the team followed a training schedule and worked in training matches to prepare.   “The team is really a very good mixture of various levels of players. I have experienced players in the squad that is familiar with high level participation. We are a fairly new team that is being built for future participation. The first years gel together nicely with the older players to form a team dynamic.   “The younger players are still developing, and they are really players to look out for come 2026. Amara Agbai, Adri Kannemeyer and Sikanyiso Mtshwepe can be regarded as star players.”   Du Toit says Varsity Netball is incredibly important for the development of players that feed into the national team.   “There is a huge shortage of high-level participation for younger players. One or two tournaments and year at a championship does not give the exposure needed for players to develop and perform, and the level of competition differs from match to match.   “By playing Varsity Netball, you get the high-level exposure for players to development, for players to start thinking on court, for players to start working towards a higher personal goal. Personal growth of players also happen as they need to step up where and when it is needed.”   Varsity College provisional squad (subject to change):  Adri Kannemeyer, Robyn Hathaway, Andrea Van der Merwe, Casey Weber, Sara Feintuch, Olukemi Amarachi Akuma Agbai, Elzaan Smith, Allison Nola Beck, Victoria Jo-Anne Diamond, Sikanyiso Mtshwepe, Stacey-Lee Feris, Caitlin Rose Cunningham, Lumanye Makhobotloane, Isabella de Vincenzo, Liane Hanekom,Kaitlin Barnard.   Full fixture list HERE.   More information on tickets HERE.

Former Bafana Bafana defender, Morgan Gould, has praised Varsity Football for effectively balancing education and football, providing young players with a platform that supports both their academic and athletic development. Gould, who earned over 30 caps for South Africa, has praised the exceptional talent that Varsity Football continues to produce, highlighting its vital role in developing players for the national and professional levels of South African football. "It's very important to have Varsity Football in our country, I think, football has taken a nice turn where they emphasise education and football," said Gould. "If you look at the other sporting codes, the rugby and the cricket, they have that - that's their mantra." “If you want to be anything of a great sportsman in that specific field, education is key and Varsity Football is also one where you find a lot of players branching over into the varsity football and then back into professional football because you know, football can only take you to a certain level and education will give you that life after football." Gould, made over 100 appearances for SuperSport United, believes that balancing a football career with education is crucial. The 42-year-old emphasizes that this aspect should be strengthened from the development level onward. “I like what's going on and it's just well to see where our football is going,” he adds. “The football players are getting younger and younger, they're getting smarter and smarter, they're getting more exposed and there's more pressure, so they need to balance out a lot." Gould added. “I also think we're lacking in the human element, you know sometimes you know that a kid is young and he needs to live his life as in, not live his life in a wrong way but in a greater way where, let the kid be introduced slowly but surely,” Gould concluded.   Upcoming Varsity Football Fixtures:   HERE   Tickets:   HERE   By: Ayanda Frances Felem

Round 2 of the Varsity Football 2025 campaign produced exciting results, with Wits securing their second consecutive victory of the tournament by defeating DUT 2-0 at Wits Stadium. In Bloemfontein, UJ edged UFS in a tense encounter, clinching a narrow 1-0 win. NWU continued their strong form at home with a 1-0 triumph over CUT, while the Tshwane derby between UP-Tuks and TUT ended in a goalless stalemate. Here are the players who made the biggest impact in their respective matches.   Prince Manku - (Wits Men’s Football) The standout performer of the match is Prince Manku, who earned the Man of the Match award with a stellar display. His impressive passing range, ability to play in tight spaces, and physical presence that unsettled the defense of DUT were key factors in his team's success. Manku's influence on the game is evident, as he scored a goal and provided an assist, showcasing his skills as a dynamic and clinical finisher. His award as goal rush and Man of the Match is well-deserved, given his significant impact on the game. "I put a lot of work behind the scenes. I must give myself credit here and there. It's a long tournament and we know you don't have to be the best everyday but it's important to grind out results especially at this level of Varsity Football I think I've gained enough experience since 2023, to know that it's not just about performance.”   Edward Rankwe (UP-Tuks Men’s Football) Though still in search of first victory, UP-Tuks maintain a clean sheet in the Tshwane derby. At the helm was the skipper Edward Rankwe who orchestrated the defence as a unit. “I am not really satisfied, I think I lost few duels, but I am quite happy this is something I can carry on going forward. I was talking to one of my teammates, I feel like we can win the next two games away and get the six. When our backs are against the wall we perform. We dropped points again, us not taking our chances it is not the results we wanted. We are running out of time, we need to get the goals." "It is frustrating because we have one of the best attacks. I know our attack with get it right and once we start hitting the net we will go up and no more going down.”   Iviwe Dyabuza – (UFS Men’s Football) Viwe Dyabuza   led from the front with a tireless work-rate that eclipsed anyone else on the park. While marshalling his troops at the back, he was not shy to push forward and put in the hard yards, often playing more like a defensive midfielder than a left-back.   Momelezi Mngati – (NWU Men’s Football) The NWU jersey number 9 was named Player of the Match following his outstanding display in the 1-0 victory over the CUT. Mngati impressed with his sharp ball control and confident play, dictating the pace of the game from midfield. Under pressure, he retained possession with ease, showcasing composure and accuracy. Every pass he made reached its intended target, with no turnovers recorded, reflecting his precision and focus. His vision allowed him to link up seamlessly with teammates, creating attacking opportunities and keeping the CUT defence on alert throughout the match. Mngati’s performance was instrumental in maintaining NWU’s momentum and territorial dominance, setting the stage for the winning goal in the second half.   Fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.

The second round of the Varsity Football 2025 campaign produced thrilling results, with Wits claiming their second win of the tournament, a 2-0 triumph over DUT at Wits Stadium. UJ secured a late 1-0 victory in Bloemfontein against UFS, while NWU captain Aphelele Sibisi’s decisive header ensured a win over CUT. Meanwhile, the Tshwane derby ended in a draw, with both teams sharing the spoils.    Wits 2-0 DUT     In front of a packed stadium, the Wits Men’s Football team capitalized on their home advantage to control the full 90 minutes, making just one change to their starting lineup as Kamohelo Mofokeng stepped in for Thabo Mphaki.  The hosts secured their second win, announcing their strong comeback in the competition picking where they left off following their impressive 4-1 thrashing of CUT last week. Wits played with high intensity, forcing their opponents to make mistakes. Prince Manku scored a stunning goal in the dying minutes of added time in the first half, striking a beautiful shot from outside the 18-yard area with an assist from Tebogo Masemola. Wits went into halftime leading 1-0.  In the second half, DUT took control of the midfield, demonstrating their strength and skill. They pressed relentlessly for a goal, sustaining high intensity and keeping constant pressure on Wits.  However, they failed to break the solid defense of the hosts, despite Phiwayinkosi Mchunu's shot on target. DUT's desperation for a goal was in vain, even after making tactical changes with Lungelo Pillay coming in for Mchunu in the 80th minute. Although Pillay made an impact, helping his team shake Wits' defense and earn set pieces, they couldn't convert them into goals.  The momentum shifted in Wits’ favour when Masemola doubled their lead with a well-built finish, courtesy of a precise cross from the goalkeeper, sealing the win for the Cleverboys. With this victory, Wits solidified their position, showcasing their strength and determination on the field. They also kept a clean sheet with their goalkeeper Lwando Mvinjana making some crucial saves.    SCORERS:         Wits: Prince Maku, Tebogo Masemola .     Player of the Match: Kgwadi Molepo   (Wits)    TEAMS:    Wits: Lwando Mvinjana, Obakeng Leping, Kgwadi Molepo, Tebogo Masemola, Simphiwe Mabena, Karabo Tsoane, Prince Manku, Tshepo Mothiba, Mxolisi Mthiya, Kaihil Cloete, Kamohelo Mofokeng.   DUT:  Sekwanele Mtolo, Luyanda Ntuli, Xolani Mkhonza, Sifundo Ngema, Nkululeko.Nkosi, Sbonelo Ngidi, Kwanele Vilakazi, Phiwayinkosi Mchunu, Bonga Mthembu, Iviwe Sodidi, Ayanda Kunene.     NWU 1-0 CUT     NWU Men’s Football secured a hard-fought 1-0 win against CUT thanks to a decisive second-half header from captain Aphelele Sibisi. The match kicked off with both sides showing intent, but it was NWU who looked more threatening in the opening stages.    Despite creating several clear chances, the home side was unable to find the back of the net in the first half, with their best efforts denied by CUT’s disciplined defending.  After 26th minute NWU maintained the upper hand, dominating possession and pressing high, but the halftime whistle came with the scoreline locked at 0-0.  The breakthrough finally came in the 57th minute after a well delivered cross from the right flank found Sibisi in the box, and the NWU captain made no mistake, as he finds the back of the net. The home side managed the game well in the final stages, controlling possession and slowing the tempo when needed.  NWU secured all three points, continuing their strong momentum in the competition.    SCORERS     NWU : Aphelele Sibisi.    Player of the match : Momelezi Mngati (NWU)    TEAMS:   NWU:  Ethan Mokwena, Knowledge Muleya, Lucky Letwaba, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Lucas Seromo, Pascual Tivane, Thapelo Letsholonyane, Momelezi Mngati, Xalani Masethi, Ranonyane Mmutlane, and Reatlegile Kgosithebe.  CUT: Siseko Faku, Thabang Mokoena, Siyabonga Mzelem, Khotso Mphene, Alwande Sibiya, Polokelo Letlema, Tiisetso Mpholoane, Tshepo Lekoro, Boeletsang Restoration Rar,Mzwakhe Shabalala.     UFS 0-1 UJ   UJ Men’s Football snatched a late winner in Bloemfontein on Thursday to edge the UFS Men’s football 1-0 at Shimla Park in round two of Varsity Football.  It was striker Keletso Sekhwela who sealed the victory deep into stoppage time, rising to the occasion and finding the back of the net from a corner right at the death to bag all three points for the visitors.  The first half saw both teams probing each other’s defences, but it was UJ who showed their intent from the very first whistle. Within seconds of kick-off, they had already carved out the first scoring chance of the match. Most of UJ’s entries into the box came from set-pieces, while UFS looked more dangerous from open play especially down the right flank, where Samkelo Nakedi kept asking questions of the UJ backline.   That pattern continued right up until the break, with the sides heading into half-time deadlocked at 0-0.  In the second stanza, UJ’s Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza unleashed a cracking effort on goal, but UFS goalkeeper Lethokuhle Makhaya produced a brilliant fingertip save to push the ball over the crossbar. It wasn’t the last time Makhaya was called into action, as UJ began creating more chances. Eventually, the pressure told in the 93rd minute when Sekhwela delivered the decisive blow.    SCORERS     UJ: Keletso Sekhwela.    Player of the Match:   Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza   (UJ)    TEAMS:    UFS:  Lethokuhle Makhaya, Tshepo Ndlovu, Iviwe Dyabuza (captain), Adolph Radingoana, Jarome Jansen, Ben Kraai, Philani Zondi, Samkelo Nakedi, Jose Mondi, Kagiso Semenya, Kwethhemba Ndlovu.   UJ :   Bayanda Mkhonza, Thabo Moshikere, Kyle Van Rensburg, Siyabonga Nhlapo, Keletso Sekhwela, Ndabezinhle Nkosi (captain), Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Yasidu Lifa, Tumelo Machete, Karabo Modisane, Tokolho Vilakazi, Teboho Makhalanyane.       UP-Tuks 0-0 TUT     Rivals UP-Tuks and TUT played out a goalless draw in front of a packed Tuks Stadium. The two Varsity Football heavyweights clashed in the Tshwane derby, with Tuks aiming for their first win of the season and arch-rivals TUT looking to extend their perfect start.  The Stripe Generation started like a house on fire throwing the first stone with fast counterattack play causing TUT defence to go deep. Matome Rangata and Risen Albert commanded the flanks interchanging and sending in crosses targeting the tall Quintin Stokes-Waller. Samukelo Ngodela was presented the first golden opportunity of the night, however the Tuks’ Varsity Football 2024 top scorer booted it over the posts.   Tuks’ defense was caught napping, failing to clear their lines, while Menzukuthula Ntshangase missed a chance to give his side the lead, sending the ball wide. Both teams headed into the break frustrated, with the score remaining 0-0 at halftime.  In the second half, TUT began to assert themselves, pressing Tuks’ defense in search of a breakthrough. Varsity Football 2024 winner with UWC, Leathan Croats, was consistently in the thick of the action, making crucial saves to keep Tuks in the game.  TUT looked dangerous on set pieces winning free kicks in pleasing areas however their efforts were dealt with by Tuks shot stopper. The story of could haves and should haves continue for Nicholas Stothard’s charges as they kept knocking with no answers, as they started creating chances in the dying moments of the game.   Substitute Mathuane Selotola’s late strike was disallowed for an offside. Tuks kept knocking with Rangata’s long throws, the last one resulting in corner kick which saw TUT failing to clear the ball. Selotola was alone in the box, slotted it in however the flag went up. The Tshwane derby ending in a goalless draw.    Player of the Match: Edward Rankwe (UP-Tuks)    TEAMS:   UP-Tuks: Leathan Croats, Khotatso Balepile, Edward Rankwe, Damian Overmeyer, Nkosana Shabalala, Paballo Mamabolo, Camagu Mdevulana, Matome Rangata, Samukelo Ngodela, Risen Albert, Quintin Stokes-Waller.  TUT:  Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Mekdiwe Ncenya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja, Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Sphamandla, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Lucky Raphala, Glen Mashimbye, Precious Radithomo Mohale.      Upcoming fixtures:  HERE     Tickets:  HERE.

The 2024 Varsity Netball season delivered an unforgettable mix of thrilling encounters, shock upsets, and standout performances as the country’s top university stars battled for supremacy. From the opening weekend to the extra-time drama of the final, fans were treated to one of the most competitive tournaments in recent memory with UFS-Kovsies winning their 5th title. Fast Starts and Early Shocks: The season tipped off in Johannesburg with a statement from the defending champions UP Tuks, who cruised past TUT. UJ, last year’s runners-up, held their nerve to edge Maties, while UFS Kovsies and NWU both opened with convincing wins over Wits and Madibaz respectively. The second round saw underdogs Wits push Tuks all the way before the champs prevailed, while Kovsies narrowly beat NWU in a battle of heavyweights, UJ dispatched Madibaz with ease, and Maties got their first win after beating TUT. Round 2 HIGHLIGHTS: UJ vs Madibaz - 2 September 2024 Round 3 produced a highlight clash as UJ edged Kovsies in the final quarter to stay perfect. Tuks, Maties, and NWU all collected comfortable wins, keeping the log tight at the top. Mid-Season Drama Round 4 brought the first real upset of the tournament when NWU toppled Tuks by a single goal in Gqeberha. UJ kept their unbeaten run alive with a hard-fought derby win over Wits, Kovsies overcame Maties, and Madibaz overpowered TUT. The following week, Maties staged an epic comeback to hand Tuks a second straight loss, while UJ thumped NWU, Kovsies beat Madibaz, and Wits grabbed their first win of the season over TUT. Round 4 HIGHLIGHTS: NWU vs Tuks - 9 Sept 2024 By Round 6, UJ remained unbeaten, and Tuks were suddenly in danger of missing the semi-finals after falling to Kovsies in Bloemfontein. Wins for NWU and Maties pushed them into the top four, setting up a tense final round. The Road to the Semi-Finals: Round 7 saw Tuks fight back to keep their title defence alive with a crucial victory over UJ. The result set up two semi-finals in Bloemfontein: UJ vs NWU and Kovsies vs Tuks. Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: UJ vs NWU - 30 Sept 2024 In the first semi-final, UJ edged NWU in a tense battle, while Kovsies ended the defending champions’ run with a composed win, booking a final showdown between the top two teams on the log. An Extra-Time Classic Varsity Netball Final: The 2024 final between Kovsies and UJ at the Callie Human Hall was a showcase of determination and skill. Kovsies held narrow leads at every break, but UJ’s resilience and tactical power plays pushed the game into extra time at 47-47. Varsity Netball 2024 final: UFS vs UJ - 7 October The first seven minutes of extra time ended level again, but in the final stretch Kovsies, spurred on by their home crowd, surged ahead to seal a 58-55 victory and claim their fifth Varsity Netball title. Refiloe Nketsa was named FNB Player of the Match in the final. Rolene Streutker took home the FNB Player of the Tournament award. Sunel Smit earned the Suzuki Player’s Player of the Tournament  award. We can't wait for the 2025 season to start on 24 August to find out who will be crowned champions this year and which players will emerge as the stars of tomorrow. FIXTURES HERE.

The CUT Men’s Football are determined to bounce back in round two of Varsity Football after a tough opening round in Johannesburg last week. CUT’s campaign got off to a rocky start, suffering a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Wits. The result has put early pressure on the Bloemfontein side, but with it being just the opening round, there's still everything to play for and the team is counting on hard work, guts, and determination to turn things around. This week, CUT face another challenge as they travel to Mahikeng to take on NWU Men’s Football. It’s a long journey and playing in front of a passionate home crowd will be no easy task. Despite the heavy defeat, there’s no sense of panic in the CUT camp. Team captain Thabang ‘Lefty’ Mokoena remains confident in his squad and believes they have what it takes to bounce back but knows they’ll have to dig deep to secure that first win. “They’re ready to go out there and compete against North-West University on Thursday,” said Mokoena. “We’re currently in camp, preparing and analysing last week’s match. We're also studying NWU's game against UJ. The boys are focused and want to redeem themselves this week." “It’s a tough trip for us we’ve spent a lot of time on the road and that does take a toll physically. But we’re committed to the fight and determined to come back with a win. “We’re sitting on minus three goal difference and eighth on the log, but we’re not far behind NWU after their 1-1 draw. If we beat them, we’ll actually move two points ahead of them — and that’s motivation enough for us. We’re ready to go and fight for those three points.” Thursday’s match between NWU-Mahikeng and CUT kicks off at 18:30 at the NWU-Mahikeng Stadium.   Fixtures:   HERE   Tickets:   HERE.

Former Ajax Cape Town and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, Brent Carelse, has praised the significant role Varsity Football is playing in developing the next generation of football stars. Carelse highlighted how the competition not only provides a platform for young talent to showcase their skills but also helps them gain valuable experience, discipline, and exposure to a higher level of competition. According to the 44-year-old, the tournament pathway is crucial in bridging the gap between grassroots football and the professional game, ensuring that promising players have the opportunity to grow, be noticed, and eventually make their mark on the bigger stage. “I've actually been very, very impressed with Varsity Football since it's come on board. It also gives us another option or another pathway to get to the professional ranks and I'm very happy with the teams that have actually signed players from the Varsity Football,” said Carelse. “The good thing about players in Varsity Football is that they are being educated, they're intelligent players, women and men, who also want to pursue a sport at a professional level, which is a lovely thing.” Carelse added that Varsity Football should be utilized more as a platform for identifying and scouting emerging young talent. He believes the Premier Soccer League (PSL) could be even stronger if it tapped more into the talent emerging from the Varsity Football tournament. “So, to combine the two is just awesome, but I think it's possibly another pathway for professional clubs to go into scouting, talent ID, and it's a good thing,” he adds. “They don't only need to look at the academies or the ABC or the NFD, but they can actually go to the Varsity Football as well. “A wealth of talent that is produced by the tournament year in year out and it’s good to see that youngsters are grabbing the opportunity to play in Varsity Football with both hands.”   Fixtures:   HERE   Tickets:   HERE.   By: Ayanda Frances Felem.