Tharquinn Manuel holds a unique varsity rugby record—every time he has played for Tuks, the team has won a title. The final-year BEd student was part of the Tuks squad that lifted the FNB Varsity Cup in 2021 and 2022, as well as the team that clinched the FNB Varsity Shield last year. Unfortunately, he missed the team's challenging 2023 Varsity Cup campaign due to injury.

Now, in his final season wearing the coveted Tuks jersey, Manuel is determined to finish on a high. He makes no secret of his desire to give everything on the field to help Tuks reclaim glory.

"Experience has taught me that there is no such thing as an easy game in varsity rugby. So, it will be important not to put the cart before the horse. Every game has its own unique challenge. What I can say is that the guys are motivated," he shared.

When asked what position he plays in the backline, it's easy to think he's starting to count.

"I've played nine in the warm-up games now, but in the past, I've played 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 for Tuks. I would like to play fullback. I bring something unique to the Tuks team as a 15. I also enjoy playing 13. But in the tournament, I will play wherever Tuks needs me."

Some believe that versatility can be a curse in rugby. A case of jack of all trades, master of none.

"There was a stage when I thought so too, but then I went and spoke to one of the Blue Bulls coaches. He encouraged me to learn as many skills as possible because, as a player, you are never sure how your rugby career will play out.

"As I said, fullback is my favourite position. As a fullback, I play for the team, not to make myself look good. I like to disrupt the ball, creating opportunities for others. I am also creative in keeping the ball alive in contact. I am also good at making split-end decisions to keep the game's momentum going.

"People think because I am short, I am not strong, but then I surprise them. I am quite a physical player. I am not scared to take on bigger players in a one-on-one.

For the record, Manuel is 1.72 metres tall and weighs between 78-83 kg. France's Antoine Dupont has influenced Manuel in the way he plays.

"Dupont is one of those players who can make something out of nothing at any time. He is also good at keeping the ball in play.

"The way Cheslin Kolbe plays is also special. He is certainly one of the most heroic players. He has also perfected the art of side-stepping. Willie le Roux is another player I look up to. From the fullback position, he has perfected the art of summarising the play and launching a counter-attack."

Tuks kicks off their 2025 FNB Varsity Cup campaign, clashing against Wits in Johannesburg on Monday, 17 February. The kicks off at 19:00.