Tuks' spirited 2025 FNB Varsity Cup campaign came to an end on Monday, 7 April, after a hard-fought 35–48 loss to UCT Ikeys in the semi-final. Yet, the "Boys in the Stripes" can walk away with their heads held high.

At the beginning of the season, few would have predicted this. After competing in the FNB Varsity Shield last year, expectations were modest. But Tuks had a mission—to restore pride in the coveted striped jersey. To leave it in a better place than they found it. And that, they did.

The semi-final will be remembered as a game of missed chances. Tuks were their own toughest opponent at key moments—errors and lapses in discipline opened the door for Ikeys. The Cape side capitalised, and their clinical edge proved decisive.

A major talking point was Tuks' decision-making around penalties. On at least five occasions, the team opted not to kick for goal despite being within striking distance. In knockout rugby, every point counts. It's not about how you win—it's that you win.

UCT's early dominance set the tone. Two tries in the first 12 minutes gave them a commanding 14-point lead, forcing Tuks to play catch-up for the rest of the game.

But Tuks never gave up. Their fight was relentless. Every player gave everything until the final whistle.

One of the standout moments came from Andile Myeni, who scored a superb try after a blistering 50-metre break by Kamohelo Tlome. The number six flank cut clean through the defence, only to be brought down just a metre from the line. Myeni did the rest.

Another quiet hero was Cayno February. The industrious flank delivered consistently outstanding performances throughout the campaign—tireless on defence, fearless at the breakdown, and rock solid in the lineouts. Often overlooked, but never outworked.

No team plays to lose, least of all in the Varsity Cup. But 2025 will be remembered as a special year for TuksRugby. Head coach Dewey Swartbooi and his team have laid a powerful foundation for the future—one built on heart, hunger, and pride in the jersey.