The Varsity Football captains look ahead to this year’s tournament, which will be played in a bio-bubble at the University of Pretoria from 8 September to 4 October.
THABO LESIBE (UFS)
How have UFS prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
We have prepared well. Of course, there were many stops and starts because of the pandemic, but it is a frustration shared by all the teams. The boys look sharp and excited, so I think we prepared as well as we could have in the given climate.
How do UFS plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
We have been talking about it extensively, so nothing about it will be unexpected. There’s a break in between bubbles, and that will help a great deal. We see it as an exciting prospect and a challenge.
What are your expectations for UFS heading into the tournament?
I have very high expectations for the team. Nobody goes into a tournament without the desire and expectation to win, so that isn’t a secret. We’ve been working really hard and I hope we reap what we have sown in the past couple of weeks leading up to the tournament.
SIFUNDO NKOSI (UKZN)
How has UKZN prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
Despite having problems and challenges we managed to overcome them as a team. We are well prepared for this tournament.
How do UKZN plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
As it will be our first time playing in a bio-bubble, we plan to be well disciplined and follow all protocols that will be in place, on and off the field.
What are your expectations for UKZN heading into the tournament?
We always aim to win. In this tournament, we expect our team to compete, show character, and a hunger to win games.
TEBOGO LEKABA (TUT)
How have TUT prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
Covid-19 has made it difficult for us, but we’ve tried to squeeze everything in, so we’ll see what happens.
How do TUT plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
We’ll treat it as a new experience and not a challenge, and adapt quickly to how things are done.
What are your expectations for TUT heading into the tournament?
The bio-bubble is something new for everyone, so we have tried to prepare for every situation. We expect it to be tough but fun.
THAPELO BODIBA (VUT)
How have VUT prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
Our team preparations went well. We prepared under all climate conditions and everyone was focused. The mood and attitude within the squad is so positive. We worked hard and we are ready for the challenge ahead.
How do VUT plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
I will make sure that we mentally accept the situation of being in a bio-bubble. We are a team with a strong mentality. There will be less time to refresh and recover, so we will have to help each other as players to stay refreshed throughout the tournament.
What are your expectations for VUT heading into the tournament?
I expect my team to be competitive with good fighting spirit. Judging from our preparations, my team will bring their best game and take it one game at a time.
– Look out for Part 2 of our Captains’ Q&A on Monday!
2021 Varsity Football fixtures
