Playing for the "Stripes" took on new meaning when the TuksNetball team secured a crucial 56-48 victory against UJ in Round 7 of the 2024 Varsity Netball campaign. This win is hailed as one of the most memorable in TuksNetball history, as the defending champions had their backs against the wall following three consecutive defeats. It was a do-or-die moment—had they lost, their tournament journey would have come to an end.

From the start, the Tuks players showed they had a solid game plan and a fierce determination to execute it. The first half was tightly contested, with UJ holding a slim one-goal lead after the first quarter and the teams tied 24-24 at halftime. However, Tuks began to dominate in the third quarter, and by the final eight minutes, victory was all but assured.

A key highlight of the game was Tuks’ performance during the powerplay, a phase that had previously been a weak spot in earlier matches. Marichelle Visagie (goal attack) and Tinita van Dyk (goal shooter) were instrumental in the win, showcasing exceptional teamwork in the circle. Visagie’s outstanding playmaking and finishing earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match award.

Afterwards, she had this to say: "I am so grateful that we won as we had put in all the long hard hours. We showed what playing for the Tuks 'Stripes' is about. It is about not giving up."

The Tuks head coach, Erin Burger, echoed Visagie's sentiments, saying that she had all confidence in her team to step up when it mattered. 

"I am so proud of how every player showed guts and pride."

On Monday, in Bloemfontein, Tuks will face Kovsies, the log leaders. Tuks will again be the underdogs as the past Sunday Kovsies have beaten them 67-49. Burger will not allow her players to dwell too much on previous games. 

"As far as I am concerned, starting Monday, when we play in the semifinals, it will be a new tournament. We know what to expect as everyone has played everyone."