Prof De Beer, a former deputy-president of the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, paid the Tuks team a visit in the dressing room before and after the final.

He was over the moon when he addressed the team after the final: “The University of Pretoria is very, very proud of what you have achieved today.”

Prof De La Rey’s joy was just as evident as she jumped to her feet to applaud the team enthusiastically from the stands as the players did their lap of honour. Earlier in the season, when Prof De La Rey handed over the jerseys, she vowed her unconditional support for TuksRugby.

“Always think of me as your No 1 supporter,” she said.