The countdown is on for South Africa’s most exciting and competitive student rugby tournaments!

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The country’s top universities are gearing up to deliver next-level rugby action as the best student players go head-to-head in front of passionate fans at packed stadiums nationwide.

The excitement kicks off with the Varsity Shield competition on Friday, 14 February, followed by the Varsity Cup on Monday, 17 February.

With the Springboks’ back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs still fresh in our minds, the spotlight now shifts to the next generation of potential stars.

More than 50 Varsity Cup and Shield players have gone on to wear the green and gold, proving this platform is a critical stepping stone in South African rugby.

Varsity Cup founder and CEO, Francois Pienaar, remains as enthusiastic as ever about the tournament’s impact.

“2025 Varsity Cup is going to the Next Level. We’re stepping up on all fronts, creating great moments and inspiring the future stars of South African rugby. This year, we celebrate the Varsity Cup and Shield as the perfect springboard for talent, bridging university and professional rugby, while shining a brighter spotlight on the rapid growth of women’s rugby.

“The tournaments have become synonymous with producing world-class talent, but it’s more than a rugby competition; it’s where student athletes grow, thrive, and dream big. I can’t wait to see what this season has in store!”

“Get ready for next-level rugby, next-level talent, and next-level sportainment where champions are made, and the future of South African rugby is forged!”

This year brings some exciting updates:

  • Friday Night Lights: Most Varsity Shield matches will now take place on Fridays, creating a weekend buzz that fans can look forward to.
  • Mascot Mania: Team mascots are back, bringing vibrant energy to every game. Expect dance-offs, crowd interactions, and plenty of team spirit!
  • Women’s Rugby Growth: Following the success of last year’s Varsity Cup Women’s competition, 2025 will see the top 6 women’s teams compete for glory with several matches being broadcast for the first time ever. 

For the defending Varsity Cup champions, the UFS Shimlas, the season starts with high expectations after their dramatic 2024 final win over the UCT Ikeys.

Shimlas head coach Andre Tredoux is keeping the team focused.

“Winning the trophy in 2024 was very rewarding for the hard work and effort the team put into the campaign. The students celebrated well, with a successful team many players got opportunities to play professional rugby, we also had a high number of graduates.

 2025 is a new challenge and we will stay true to our brand to play attractive running rugby.  The team has been preparing well and are excited to give everything in the upcoming campaign, we will play without fear and embrace the challenge.”

Meanwhile, UP-Tuks, who dominated the Varsity Shield competition, are ready to return and make their mark once more in the premiere competition after winning back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022.

When asked about the Stripe Generation’s approach to being promoted, head coach Dewey Swartbooi got straight to the point, making it clear that his team is ready to step up and compete with the best, focused on delivering a performance that speaks for itself.

“We are happy to be back in the Varsity Cup competition and rolling with the big boys, we just want to give a good account of ourselves.“

The Shield competition will also see the addition of Sol Plaatjes who replace TUT after winning the promotion relegation playoff.

The Kimberley-based unit is chomping at the bit to show why they should be taken seriously as a potential title contender and at the helm will be head coach Johnathan Francke who brings a wealth of experience to the table.

“To be part of the Varsity Shield is a great achievement for us, but more so a huge honor to put Kimberley on the map.  We’ve seen what it means for the town when the Griquas perform, and we draw energy from the team to perform as well.  The team is well prepared for the season, and we are very much looking forward to the start of the tournament,” says Francke.

With the best young talent on display, thrilling matches, and an electric atmosphere that only Varsity Rugby can offer, 2025 promises to be another unforgettable season of next level action.

For all the latest news and fixtures click HERE

Which team do YOU support in the Varsity Cup?

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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/varsity-cup/varsity-cup-and-varsity-shield-2025-to-take-rugby-that-rocks-to-the-next-level/