The TuksWomensRugby team’s place in the final of the 2025 Varsity Cup Women's edition is a testament to boldness, belief, and grit.

Few would have predicted Tuks would make it this far, especially after a tough group stage where they managed just one win from three matches. So when they faced defending champions, the University of Fort Hare, on their home turf in the semi-final, most doubted their chances. But as the saying goes, games aren't won on paper; they're won on the pitch.

Tuks proved that with an inspired 8–5 victory. Vice-captain Precious Tlaka scored a crucial try and slotted a penalty in extra time to seal the upset.

Captain Jess Mare said the team was fired up with motivation as they stepped onto the field—and it showed.

"We lost the previous two times in the semi-finals. Last year, when we played Fort Hare, we were not at our best. That feeling of defeat stayed. We did not want to go down the same road for the second time. Losing against Fort Hare. 

"We knew Fort Hare would come hard at us, so we had to set our standard of play super high. We went out to play with the mindset that it is war. The 'girls' played with so much heart. Everyone stepped up and took responsibility. That is why we managed to pull it off."

Mare was also impressed with the way the Tuks hooker Aphiwe Masuku played. 

"Her work rate was unbelievable. She made tackle after tackle. Things ran like clockwork in the lineouts because she did not miss our jumpers when throwing in”.

The game disappointed Mare, as she injured her left ankle quite early in the second half. She had to be helped off the field as she could not put any weight on her leg. On Sunday, Mare was still unsure whether she could play the final on Friday in Durban.

"It won't be the end of the world if I can't play. My teammates showed they could win without me being on the field. If I can't play, I hope to go with my teammates to Durban to support them."

Mare is confident that her teammates can trump Maties on Friday.

"It's not going to be easy. Maties has already won the Varsity Cup. They are going to give it their all. What's different this time is that we learned to back ourselves in the game against Fort Hare. In other words, we should believe in our abilities. If the players can do it again, anything is possible.

Tuks will now face Maties in the final on Friday, 11 April, in Stellenbosch. Kick-off is at 13:45.