As SPU prepares to face the University of KwaZulu Natal in their opening FNB Varsity Shield 2026 fixture, captain Jan Potgieter steps into the new campaign carrying both experience and history.
Last season marked SPU’s debut in the Varsity Shield competition. In their first appearance on the national university rugby stage, the young Kimberley based institution finished in the top five and secured qualification for the 2026 campaign. It was a significant achievement for a university just over a decade old competing against institutions with generations of rugby heritage.
Potgieter was part of that historic squad.
Having experienced the intensity and expectation of Varsity Shield firsthand, he understands what this level demands, both physically and mentally.
“We know what the competition demands. The focus this year has been on consistency and discipline.”
For Potgieter, last year was not about arrival. It was about foundation.
Competing against institutions with generations of rugby heritage sharpened the squad’s mindset and reinforced the standards required to perform consistently at national level.
Looking ahead to today’s opener, the SPU captain emphasised preparation as the foundation for confidence.
“We’ve worked hard in pre-season. The structures are in place. Now it’s about execution.”
The team travels knowing they represent more than just a rugby side. In a province where rugby is deeply embedded in cultural and community life, SPU’s presence in the Varsity Shield strengthens the Northern Cape’s voice on the national stage.
Following a strategic executive send off and a campus activation that united students and staff, Potgieter acknowledged the role of the university community.
“We feel the backing from campus. That matters.”
With SPU Central Campus fully activated before their departure and belief rooted in preparation, SPU enters the FNB Varsity Shield 2026 season not as newcomers, but as a team establishing its place among the competition’s strongest.
Kick off: Friday, 13 February at 19:00.
I have seen the technical team, coaches, traners, physio, the manager giving it their all in preparations fir the hungry Gemmie boys, who sped their time in pre-season in the gym and field, giving their all. Now it’s the time bring it all to the field, it is all in their hands, management at Sport hs done their all to get the team together. Boys bring the FIRE ON, make SPU Pride 🔥🔥🔥