Its back to the rugby field as universities do battle after a rather exciting season of Varsity Cup and Varsity Shield, but this time it’s the more explosive version – Varsity 7s.
The men from the University of Fort Hare will be at it again hoping this time to have a better run at the Varsity 7s weekend. The team took part last year, but left unhappy after a series of losses and just one win, against Walter Sisulu University.
“The problem with sevens is that in our region, (eastern cape, border league) we don’t set fixtures for sevens rugby, so the exposure and the experience is limited,” said head coach Zinoko Dumaphi. “And no matter how much you prepare, game time is critical in increasing a player’s ability and skills in sevens rugby.
“It’s a more tactical and technical aspect of rugby. Our players take these games seriously, and they watch the game not only for the quick feet but also to work on mental skills. They see how the best in world do it, so before they perform the skills at practice they have a mental image of what needs to be done.”
The men from Alice will hope to make their university proud, as their institution celebrates 100 years this year, with the official celebration taking place on the 20th of May. Bringng home the Varsity 7s trophy would be the cherry on top of the cake during the celebrations.
“We have lots of speed in team this year, and a great mixture of old and new players, so we are ready for the games and man are we eager to get to Cape Town and get the happy on display,” said captain Athenkosi Makeleni.
It’s all done and dusted, fixtures are set, flights booked and players ready. It should be an exciting long weekend in Cape Town, as we all witness varsity rugby at its best.
UFH Varsity 7s team:
1. Lihle mavuso 2.Philisani Ncoko 3.Zanoxolo Qwele 4.Athenkosi Makeleni© 5.Batshise Luyolo 6.Athipila Mlotywa 7.Siphuxolo Zaula 8. Asiphe Fanele 9.Asiphe Fihla 10.Lukho Jongizulu 11.Qama Masiza 12.Sibongile Novuka 13.Sibusiso Sityebi 14Siphosethu Tsotsa 15.Lulamile Kama
By Kgoboko Kgoboko
