It will be do or die on Friday for the TuksWomensRugby side when they take on the University of KwaZulu Natal in the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup Women.

The winner is guaranteed to contest the semi-finals. Tuks captain, Jess Maré, is confident she and her teammates can win. 

"It is a home game, so we owe it to the Tuks supporters to put our bodies on the line and not give up until the final whistle has blown. We are under no illusions as to what awaits us. UKZN has a good team. They are going to come for us, but we are prepared.

"It is essential as the captain to lead by example. I cannot expect my teammates to give it their all if I am not prepared to do so. As a team, our motto is 'RISE'. It is an acronym. R is for reflection, I is for intention, S is for strength, and E is for expectation. I favour intention. If a team shows up with intention, there is a real chance that they will rise."

Rugby is genuinely Maré's passion. Last week against Maties, she only played 10 minutes because she is recovering from an ankle injury. She did have an impact in those few minutes. The fact that she played prop is another example of loyalty to the team.

"I'm a loose forward, but I am prepared to play any position from prop to lock and even in the backline. I played prop because the coaches asked me to train as a substitute prop. I will do whatever needs to be done for the best of the team."

Why rugby?

"I love the physicality. That is why playing rugby is a no-brainer for me. In the past, when I used to play a bit of basketball, I was continuously reminded that basketball is not rugby. What I love about rugby is that I can make big hits. Steal the ball at crucial moments, and I love the kicking aspect of the game. I would often go practising kicking on my own. When I do, I have no distractions. It is only me and my thoughts.

"The Springbok Women international, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, is my role model. She is proof of what can be achieved through hard work. Despite everything she has achieved, she is the most approachable player I know. She has no airs about her. If you want to learn anything about rugby, talk to Libbie. She is always prepared to listen and help. If at some stage I can master the art of kicking as she has, I will be super chuffed."

Last week in Stellenbosch, Tuks lost 5-24 to Maties while UKZN lost 50-0 against Maties in their opener.

Kick-off between Tuks and UKZN is at 12:30 pm on Friday, April 12.