Mondays are about to feel a lot more like Fridays. The “hottest rugby season” is back as the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup kicks off, bringing its signature high-octane energy back to the pitch. For the University of Johannesburg (UJ), this is not just a new season – it’s a fresh start and a chance to rewrite the narrative.

After navigating the choppy waters of a relegation battle last year, the Senior Men’s Rugby Team (FNB UJ) returns to the top flight with a point to prove. Their mission begins on home turf on Monday, 16 February, where they will welcome the “new kids on the block,” FNB Emeris. It is a classic welcoming committee: the newcomers looking to make a splash, and the veterans ready to show them just how unforgiving top-tier varsity rugby can be.

New Leadership, Fresh Ambition

The 2026 campaign sees a strategic shift on the sidelines. FNB UJ has bolstered its technical team with interim appointments, bringing in Therlow Pietersen as Backline Coach and Dietlov Coetzee to command the Forwards.

On the field, the charge is led by Captain Kamohelo Molefe. Tasked with steering a squad teeming with emerging talent, Molefe’s leadership will be crucial as the team navigates seven grueling round-robin matches. Fans at the UJ Rugby Stadium in Westdene can look forward to four massive home clashes this season.

FNB UJ Senior Men’s Fixtures

The Future is Bright: Young Guns & Women’s Excellence

The rugby fever extends beyond the Senior Men. The FNB UJ Young Guns will launch their own campaign on 23 February, facing off against their counterparts from Emeris. Meanwhile, the UJ Senior Women’s Team is set to bring the heat starting 6 March, opening their season against rivals UP-Tuks in what promises to be a physical showdown.

Key Women’s Fixtures

Key Young Guns Fixtures

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