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

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

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

The NWU Eagles enter Varsity Netball 2026 with a target firmly on their backs after producing a memorable comeback to defeat UFS Kovsies 57-49 in last year's final. The victory delivered NWU their third Varsity Netball title and their first championship since 2016. For head coach Elsunet du Plessis, lifting the trophy was the culmination of months of work from everyone involved with the team. "Winning the Varsity Netball title was an incredibly special moment for our players, staff and the entire NWU community. It was the reward for months of hard work, resilience and belief in one another." While NWU return as champions, the Eagles have approached their preparations with the emphasis firmly on improvement rather than simply trying to defend what they achieved in 2025. "Every season presents a new challenge, and we know that last year's success doesn't guarantee anything," Du Plessis says. "We've prepared with intensity and purpose, focusing on continuous improvement rather than defending a title." That mindset will be particularly important as NWU attempt to navigate another demanding Varsity Netball campaign. For the players, representing the university comes with a strong sense of pride and responsibility. "Our players are proud to represent NWU and understand the responsibility that comes with wearing this dress," says Du Plessis. The team's expectations are equally clear: compete with courage, consistency and humility while giving themselves the best possible opportunity to challenge for the championship once again. "Fans can expect a team that competes with passion, energy and determination," says Du Plessis. "We want to embrace every challenge and showcase the resilience and fighting spirit that have become part of the NWU identity." While the champions retain the experience of players who know what it takes to perform on the Varsity Netball stage, there will also be plenty of new faces looking to make their mark. Du Plessis says around half of this year's squad is new to the Varsity Netball environment, creating a fresh dynamic within the team. "The blend of experienced players and exciting new talent has created a competitive group, and we're looking forward to seeing them showcase their talents throughout the tournament." For the NWU Eagles, 2026 is therefore about more than defending a trophy. It is an opportunity to build on the foundation laid by last year's championship team, introduce a new generation of players to the Varsity Netball stage and prove that the Eagles belong at the top of university netball. NWU Provisional Squad: Sunel Smit, Andrya Joubert, Njabulo Hlope, Jaime Matfield, Euane Theart, Amori Matthee, Rayvoné Leander, Christi-Marie Coetzee, Vivian Venancio, Makgoshi Magoshoa, Liane van Lochem, Amia Roux, Reze Coetzer, Lethabo Komane. Fixtures HERE. Tickets HERE.

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

Head coach Nthabeleng “Dunga” Modiko remains resolute yet grounded as UJ prepare to face UP-Tuks in the Varsity Football Women’s final on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, at UJ Soweto Stadium. Despite dethroning the UWC in the semifinals, Modiko insists past victories offer no guarantees on the grandest stage. “Once teams reach the final, we have to start planning again,” Modiko stated. “We have earned our place in the final and UP-Tuks have done the same - what happened in the semifinal is now history. We have to prepare for the final, respect the opponent, and perform at a level we know we are capable of.” Although the Orange Army claimed a decisive 3-0 victory over UP-Tuks in Round 2, Modiko expects a completely altered tactical contest. “That result gave us confidence, but it also means Tuks will enter the final eager to prove a point. They will have analyzed that match, adjusted their approach, and arrived highly motivated. Finals are entirely different beasts -we cannot rely on past encounters. We must impose our own strengths. It will be a grueling game, and we expect Tuks to bring serious intensity, but we are fully prepared.” UJ’s campaign has been defined by high-tempo pressing and dynamic attacking play. Since the start of the tournament, UJ dispatched TUT (1-0), UP-Tuks (3-0), and WSU (4-0), alongside a 1-1 draw against UL. That tactical dominance has been matched by individual brilliance, with UJ players securing four FNB Player of the Match awards across five fixtures. These included Lindelwa Mabuza against TUT, Kusaselihle Shibase against UP-Tuks, Mpho Dlamini against WSU and Sthembile Sandleni against UWC. “The Orange Army has a distinct identity; we always play with high energy,” Modiko emphasized. “I want a team that is aggressive off the ball, brave on it, and sharp in decision-making in the final third. We are not entering this final merely to participate – we are going to compete for the trophy.” “Playing at home gives us a sense of comfort, but ultimate execution lies on the field. We hope our supporters turn out in numbers to elevate the squad. The players know what is required – to be brave and decisive in critical moments. We trust them, we are proud of their journey, and they know the title is within their reach.” Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Collen Maepa

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 17 August. Winner will be announced after the final on Wednesday 19 August. The 2026 Varsity Football Women’s final is almost here, with the UJ Orange Army set to take on the Tuks Stripe Generation on 19 August at 7pm, but before this year’s champions are crowned fans have the opportunity to recognise the standout performers who have made their mark throughout the competition by voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2026. The coaches of the women’s competition were asked to nominate their top three players who impressed them most during the tournament. To ensure a fair process, coaches could not nominate a player from their own university. Each nomination was weighted, with three points awarded for first place, two points for second and one point for third. The points from all the coaches’ nominations were then combined to determine the three leading contenders for the award. Now, the decision moves to the fans. Voting is open to the public and your votes will determine who is crowned the FNB Player of the Tournament 2026 and recognised as one of the standout performers of this year’s Varsity Football Women’s competition. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 17 August. Winner will be announced after the final on Wednesday 19 August. Ibanathi Msindo: The Stripe Generation midfielder is one of the main reasons Tuks have made this year's final. She has been outstanding and scored the longest freekick goal of the tournament so far. Sibongile Ntoane: the TUT maestro is currently tied as the top goal scorer this season on 4 goals and she is in the running to win the Suzuki Golden Boot award. Tiffany Kortjie: the UWC captain lead the Cape side to their third consecutive title last year and was once again a key part of their 2026 campaign leading the Suzuki Golden Boot award chase with 4 goals. The public can cast their votes below up until 9am on Monday 17 August. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on 19 August.

TUT opened their 2026 Varsity Football campaign with a crucial 1-0 victory over defending champions UFS in Bloemfontein on Friday, securing their first three points of the season while the Kovsies suffer their second straight loss at home. UWC bounced back in style from last week’s draw, defeating UP-Tuks 1-0 away, while Wits also claimed their first three points after edging UL to hand the Limpopo side a second defeat of the campaign. UJ completed the round’s victories, walking away with all three points at Harry Gwala Stadium. TUT 1-0 UFS The Tshwane University of Technology are off the mark in the 2026 Varsity Football following a hard-fought 1-0 win over the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein on Friday. While it’s three points in the bag for the Red Army, they were made to work hard for them by the defending champions. The first half was always expected to be a tight affair between two teams that like to attack early. For the opening 30 minutes, both sides created opportunities, but it was only a corner by UFS that really threatened the TUT goal. However, it never developed into an attempt with any real venom. The best chance of the first half came with just over five minutes left on the clock, when the Red Army had a proper crack at goal following another nervous mistake by UFS. However, they were denied by a brilliant save from goalkeeper Lethokuhle Makhaya, while the resulting corner was tame. The players headed into the changerooms with the score deadlocked at 0-0. In the second half, it was TUT who started much more aggressively on the attack, and their pressure finally paid off when a mistake in the UFS box resulted in a penalty for the team from the capital city. It was none other than TUT’s inspirational captain and veteran, Lucky Raphala, who broke the deadlock, calmly converting from the spot. While UFS pushed hard in the closing stages of the game, they lacked the finishing touch needed to find an equaliser as they suffered back-to-back defeats. It’s back to the drawing board for the defending champions as they now prepare to face Wits next Friday in Bloemfontein. SCORERS TUT: (0) 1 Lucky Raphala UFS: (0) 0 Player of the Match: Tshiamo Rantho (TUT) TEAMS: TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Operatile Mapudi, Ntshuxeko Mkhabela, Tshiamo Rantho, Lehlomo Tolo, Thobani Ngwenya, Karabo Rangata, Lucky Raphala (captain), Kearabilwe Mphahlele, Akani Rathokoa, Likho James. UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Sandle Mhlanga, Philani Zondi, Itumeleng Louw, Luvuyo Kwasi, Ishepo Ndlovu, Jarome Jansen (captain), Kagisho Lekhoala, Kagiso Semenya, Adolph Radingoana. UP-Tuks 0-1 UWC Three-time Varsity Football champions UP-Tuks locked horns with former defending champions UWC on quest to secure back-to-back wins in the opening round robin games of Varsity Football campaign. The home side made a sluggish start, conceding a penalty inside the opening five minutes after Jason Cox was adjudged to have committed a foul inside the box. Relebohile Matima stepped up from the spot with a chance to put the visitors ahead, but his effort towards the far post was brilliantly kept out by Gennaro Johnson, who produced a fine save to deny him. The Stripe Generation looked to have found their mojo in the 20th minute posing their first threatening attack. Sinalo Nyawose found himself alone in the box but fired wide out. The closely contested stanza ended deadlocked at the break. Tuks returned from the tunnel rejuvenated unleashing Matome Rangata and Chuene Moabelo to reinforce their attack. The duo posed early threat with Rangata breaking UWC defence but failing to feed the attacking players in the box. UWC remained composed at the back and relied on counter attack and were immediately rewarded for their efforts. The Stripe Generation committed numbers forward as they searched for an early breakthrough, but it was UWC who struck first. Substitute Tyrese Davids broke the deadlock in the 68th minute, racing onto a counter attack before calmly lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to give UWC a 1-0 lead. UWC found themselves stranded and committed a foul making the first booking of the match when Luphulo Zini fouling Risen Albert. Tuks kept asking questions to the UWC, but their efforts never materialize as the visitors took a 1-0 victory. SCORERS: UP-Tuks: (0) 0 UWC: (0) 1 Tyrese Davids Player of the Match: Lebogang Mswane (UP-Tuks) TEAMS: UP-Tuks: Gennaro Johnson, Sibusiso Tolomane, Jason Cox, Paballo Mamabolo, Nkosana Shabalala, Lebogang Mswane, Joshua Wood, Matome Rangata, Samukelo Ngodela, Phiwayinkhosi Dube, Ntokozo Madela. UWC: Zubeir Mohamed, Wanda Ntsonkotha, Imaan January, Zamian Plaatjies, Iviwe Dyabuza, Malinga Mdodana, Mesuli Manzi, Sesethu Ntuku-Ntuku, Vuyani Ncontsa, Arnold Dube, Zukhanye Qaba. Wits 3-0 UL Wits delivered a commanding performance on home turf, cruising to a convincing 3-0 victory over UL after controlling the contest through key moments in both halves. Wits opened the scoring in the 16th minute after a dangerous tackle inside the area resulted in a penalty. Mxolisi Mthiya stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give the home side a 1-0 advantage. UL looked to respond as the half progressed, while Wits continued to threaten on the attack. In the 38th minute, UL's Malwanda Makamu produced a crucial save to deny Wits from doubling their advantage, keeping the visitors within touching distance. The home side continued to create chances, although several efforts narrowly missed the target. UL’s defensive trio of Makamu, captain Reggy Masebe and Kagiso Shokane worked tirelessly to withstand the sustained pressure and keep Wits’ attackers at bay. At the other end, Wits goalkeeper Reddel Duh and his defenders remained composed, keeping the UL attack from finding a way through. In the second half, Wits wasted no time extending their advantage after the restart. Tebogo Masemola found himself in space on the right and finished from a cross to make it 2-0 just over a minute in. Tensions were high as UL continued to push forward in search of a way back into the contest, but Wits remained disciplined. In the 77th minute, Siphesihle Ntombela tested UL goalkeeper Mosa Mabitsela, who made an important save low to his left to keep the score at 2-0. In the 91st minute, UL were reduced to 10 men when Maano Paswana received a red card following a challenge on Wits captain Kgwadi Molepo. Wits took full advantage of their numerical advantage late on. In the 95th minute, Thato Putswane, who came off the bench, added a third goal thanks to a cross from from just outside the box as full time was called. SCORERS Wits: (1) 3 Mxolisi Mthiya, Tebogo Masemola, Thato Putswane. UL: (0) 0 Player of the Match: Kaihil Thierry Cloete (Wits) TEAMS:Wits: Kgwadi Molepo (captain), Mxolisi Mthiya, Tebogo Masemola, Obakeng Leping, Kaihil Thierry Cloete, Tshimologo Mokae, Thabo Mphaki, Keabetswe Segaetsho, Simangaliso Dlamini, Karabo Tsoane, Reddel Duh. UL: Mosa Mabitsela, Fesbon Ngobeni, Malwandla Makamu, Reggy Kabelo Masebo (Captain), Kagiso Shokane, Simon Katlego Malebe, Kholofelo Malevo Mamabolo, Mohlatego Sekole, Katlego Calvin Mathabathe, Theto Mohale, Maano Phashwana. DUT 0-1 UJ Following strong opening games from both sides, DUT and UJ entered the clash full of confidence and momentum, but only one team could walk away with all three points. DUT began the match nervously, making a couple of early errors that immediately put them under pressure. The build-up of mistakes eventually proved costly as UJ’s Tshepo Mosieleng capitalised with a crucial finish in the 12th minute to give the visitors the lead. For most of the first half, the match was played in DUT’s half as the home side struggled to settle after conceding. UJ remained composed and looked comfortable with their advantage, heading into the break with a 1-0 lead. The second half began on a much better note for DUT, who looked a more confident and organised side after the restart. However, a pivotal combination between Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza and Njabulo Jele at the centre of the pitch ensured UJ remained defensively solid and kept the Orange Army at bay. UJ almost surrendered their lead late in the match when they conceded a penalty, giving DUT a golden opportunity to level the scores. Nkululeko Nkosi stepped up from the spot in the 83rd minute, but unfortunately for the home side, he was unable to convert. The drama intensified in the closing stages as both teams were reduced to 10 men following red cards, one for each side in the last 10 minutes of the game. In the end, UJ held on for a hard-fought 1-0 victory in a match filled with pressure, missed opportunities and late drama. SCORERS DUT: (0) 0 UJ: (1) 1 Tshepo Mosieleng Player of the match: Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza (UJ) TEAMS: DUT: Sekwanele Mtolo, Alwande Mjilo, Nkululeko Nkosi, Luyanda Ntuli, Lusiba Dlamini, Fanelesibonge Ndwandwe, Bonga Mthembu, Nqubeko Magoso, Phiwayinkosi Mchunu, Awande Buthelezi. UJ: Moraka Mathidza, Tumelo Machete, Ofentse Motlhabi, Njabulо Jele, Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza, Sandile Nkosi, Keletso Sekhwela, Tshepo Mosieleng, Mnotho Mthethwa, Ndabezinhle Nkosi, Tokoloho Vilakazi. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE

It is no secret that KwaZulu-Natal-based DUT have found it difficult to make their mark in Varsity Football since making their debut two years ago. However, coach Andile Mavundla’s side made a strong statement in their opening match of this season, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over the University of Limpopo (UL) in Turfloop. After keeping a clean sheet away from home, DUT goalkeeper and captain Sekwande Mtolo identified their disciplined defensive display and clinical finishing as key factors behind the victory. “I think the biggest positives were our attitude, discipline and togetherness. We started the game with a lot of intensity, and everyone understood their role. We defended as a unit, kept a clean sheet and took our chances when they came,” said the 22-year-old Hammarsdale-born shot-stopper. Mtolo also revealed that DUT are determined to change perceptions about the team this season and prove that they are capable of competing with the best. “Our goal is to change the way people look at DUT. We don’t want teams to come into a game against us expecting an easy three points. We want to earn respect through our performances, consistency and results. “As a team this season, we want to compete in every match, fight for every point and make sure that when teams play against DUT, they know they are in for a difficult game,” he added. The DUT captain believes the team’s clear understanding of individual responsibilities has given them an early advantage, while their positive attitude and results are helping to build momentum. “In our game against UL, everyone understood their role. We started the game with a lot of intensity, believed in ourselves from the first whistle and played for each other. “As captain, my responsibility this season is to keep the team motivated, focused and accountable. We want to build on this start and create a season that we can all be proud of,” he concluded. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

Varsity Netball 2025 delivered a season packed with upsets, comebacks and closely fought encounters before the NWU Eagles were crowned champions for the third time. From Madibaz’s explosive start to UJ’s unbeaten run and NWU’s dramatic late charge, the tournament produced plenty of twists before the Eagles eventually lifted the trophy in Bloemfontein. Madibaz make an immediate impact in rounds 1 and 2: The tournament got off to a flying start at the Maties Coetzenburg Indoor Centre, with several teams making early statements. The biggest surprise of the opening round came from Madibaz, who stunned former champions UP-Tuks 62-47. Defending champions UFS Kovsies also began their title defence strongly, beating Wits 77-53 in the highest scoring match of the opening round. Round two produced even more drama. UJ overturned a four-goal halftime deficit to defeat defending champions UFS Kovsies 53-50 while Madibaz produced another comeback victory, this time overcoming NWU 52-48 after trailing by seven goals at the end of the first quarter.\ Round 2 HIGHLIGHTS: NWU vs Madibaz - 25 August UJ rise to the top in round 3: By round three, UJ had established themselves as one of the teams to beat. The Orange Army moved to the top of the log after defeating Varsity College 56-34 while NWU secured a 55-41 victory over Maties. Wits provided another upset by handing Madibaz their first defeat of the tournament, winning 63-50. Meanwhile, UFS Kovsies continued their title defence with a dominant 73-37 victory over UP-Tuks. As the tournament progressed, the battle for the top four intensified. UJ continued to build momentum while Kovsies remained firmly in contention and NWU stayed within striking distance. Round 3 HIGHLIGHTS: UFS vs Tuks - 1 Sept NWU stun UJ as semi-finalists decided: The final round of the regular season produced a major shake-up at the top of the standings. NWU stunned previously unbeaten UJ 50-42 after fighting back from behind and taking control during the second half. The result allowed UFS Kovsies to leapfrog UJ and finish top of the log. Elsewhere, UFS produced another impressive comeback against Maties. The Maroon Machine led 29-23 at halftime but the defending champions responded with a powerful third quarter before closing out a 55-47 victory. The results confirmed the four semi-finalists. UFS Kovsies finished top, followed by UJ, NWU and Maties. NWU's victory over UJ also set up a tantalising semi-final rematch between the two sides. Round 7 HIGHLIGHTS: UJ vs NWU - 15 Sept Eagles and Kovsies soar into the final: NWU carried their momentum into the knockout stages, producing a commanding 55-28 victory over UJ in the first semi-final. The Eagles established control early and never allowed the Orange Army to find a way back into the contest. In the second semi-final, defending champions UFS Kovsies overcame Maties in another hard-fought encounter to secure their place in the final. The result set up a showdown between two teams with plenty of history, with NWU looking for their first Varsity Netball title since 2016 while Kovsies were chasing a sixth championship. Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: UFS vs Maties - 22 Sept NWU complete comeback to be crowned champions: The final at the Callie Human Hall in Bloemfontein lived up to the occasion as NWU produced a remarkable comeback to defeat defending champions UFS Kovsies 57-49. Kovsies started strongly and held a narrow 13-12 lead after the first quarter. The defending champions maintained their advantage at halftime, leading 26-24, before extending their lead to five goals at 39-34 heading into the final quarter. With the title on the line, however, NWU found another gear. The Eagles levelled the scores during the first powerplay before taking control of the closing stages. They piled on the pressure and surged ahead to secure an eight-goal victory. The triumph delivered NWU their third Varsity Netball title and their first since 2016, ending a nine-year wait for the Eagles. Sunel Smit was named FNB Player of the Match for her contribution to the final while UFS Kovsies' Reratilwe Letsoalo was named FNB Player of the Tournament. UJ defender Cornelia Mupenda received the Suzuki Players' Player of the Tournament award. The 2026 edition of Varsity Netball starts on 23 August with a bumper weekend in Stellenbosch. All fixtures HERE. Tickets coming soon.

The stars have aligned for UP-Tuks as they fought till the end to reach the Varsity Football final for the third time. The Stripe Generation embarked on the tournament with fresh look and new leadership in a shape of Sibusiso Themba. The Pretoria outfit started sluggish failing to win the opening two games, however skipper S’bahle Ndlovu and her teammates went on to top their group with much needed two victories against CPUT and Wits before knocking out Tshwane rivals TUT in a feisty penalty shootout. “It’s a special feeling to be playing in the final, reaching the final is something to be proud of considering the journey we had as a team. there is excitement and a lot of focus because we know worked hard to be where we are and now there is only one game left to finish the job,” said Ndlovu. Playing against UJ will be a great challenge but we are not focused on what happened the last time we played them as anything can happen. The first week we were last on the log, and now we are competing in the final. We will go all out and together and fight for every ball.” The 23-year-old midfielder alluded the commitment her team shown in this campaign. “I will be playing in the first final since 2023, after missing out in the previous years and now being able to lead the team in the bigger stage I cannot take it for granted. It means a lot to us because it represents the hard work and effort we put in this tournament,” she said. “We have become more disciplined in how we approach our games and staying composed when things do not go our way. We are always united and play for each other and I think that has shown this year. I am proud of this group; we have a lot of talented young players that shown so much courage and willingness. We learn a lot from each other.” The final takes place on 19 August, 7pm at UJ Soweto Stadium. Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By:Lehlogonolo Ditshego

The Red Army now turns its attention to defending champions UFS in Round Two of the Varsity Football tournament after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to UJ in their opening match. Under head coach Bushy Moloi, the side remains determined to challenge for a record-breaking championship title, with a refreshed squad eager to make its mark on this season’s campaign. Both teams come into the clash wounded having lost in the opening games. TUT captain Lucky Raphala says they will not dwell on the past games. “It was a tough game but there are positives we can take from it, we showed character and created chances but now it’s about learning from our mistakes and make sure we respond strongly on the next game,” said Raphala. “It’s going to be another tough one because we will both be hungry after the first game. We respect UFS we all know what they did to us last year, but our focus is executing our game plan and bounce back.” With the Pretoria West based team gunning for a first win, the skipper highlighted improvements from his side in attack and the privilege of working with Moloi. “We worked a lot in being great going forward and creating chances and putting teams under pressure. We want to maintain that mentality in this campaign. We prepared with more experience and maturity as we all know coach Bushy is experienced and a great coach we learn from last season,” he said. “We focused on consistency. We know how to reach the final and win it. Last year’s disappointment will not discourage us, but we are not looking too far ahead.” The intensity in the Varsity Football increases each year with the tournament being won by three different institutions in the past three editions. The record championship holders were the last to clinch the coveted trophy back-to-back and have not tasted victory since 2023. “Our target is to go all the way; it will not be easy, but we believe in the squad to finish the job this season. We have a positive mood, new players have settled well and there’s good understanding between the old and new players.” Fixtures: HERE Tickets: HERE By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego