Get to know the captains of Wits, UJ, UP-Tuks, UWC and NWU as the 2022 Varsity Cup season readies to launch on 14 February.

EBOT BUMA (WITS)

What does it mean to you to captain Wits this year?
It’s a huge honour to be in this position. I will heed the lessons from the previous captains of this university to ensure that I’m the best leader I can possibly be. I’m grateful for the chance to work with the next generation of players. We want to do the Wits badge justice, and leave the team in a better place than when we found it.

What kind of a captain are you?
I strive to be the hardest-working player on the field. I believe that you’ve got to leave absolutely everything out there. What’s more, I believe it’s important to build strong bonds with teammates off the field. In that way, you have greater chemistry when you’re in the heat of battle.

KELVIN KANENUNGO & JOHANNES TERBLANCHE (UJ)

What does it mean to you to lead UJ – as co-captains – this year?
Kanenungo: I’ve always dreamed of being captain. It’s an honour, and it comes with great responsibility. I’m excited to co-captain the team in this year’s Varsity Cup.
Terblanche: It’s a big moment for me in my career, to be one of the captains of this team, and I’m looking forward to it.

What kind of a captain are you?
Kanenungo: I try to cover all bases and stay involved at all times. I’m helping the boys off the field, and trying to lead by example on it. Communicating the reasons for an action, on or off the field, is important.
Terblanche: I’ve always respected captains who set the tone on the field through their own actions, so that is the kind of captain I strive to be.

LINCOLN DANIELS (UP-TUKS)

What does it mean to you to captain Tuks this year?
It’s a massive privilege and honour to be leading this team. I also see it as an opportunity to grow and develop as a rugby player. The recognition from my coaches makes me proud.

What kind of a captain are you?
I see myself as a calm leader. I’m not very vocal. I ensure that my actions speak louder than words. It’s important to lead by example.

LYLE HENDRICKS (UWC)

What does it mean to you to captain UWC this year?
It’s a big honour and a privilege. Everybody is looking to you to make the big calls. In one sense, that’s a big responsibility, but in another, it feels good to know that the coaches have that kind of trust in you to do the job.

What kind of a captain are you?
When you’re given the captaincy, you automatically try to level up in terms of your performance and leadership. It’s not enough to lead by example on the field – how you carry yourself off the field is important, too. You need to be a gentleman and a good person to be a good leader.

SAMPIE SWIEGERS (NWU EAGLES)

What does it mean to you to captain NWU this year?
When I came to university, I set myself a series of goals. I wanted to be the best player I could possibly be, but I didn’t see myself as a captain. I’ve always wanted to be part of this team since watching NWU win the Varsity Cup title in 2016. To play for the team now, and to lead it, is a huge honour.

What kind of a captain are you?
You aim to set the example on and off the field. It’s not only about setting high standards as a player, but as a person. I’m the kind of guy who enjoys chatting, so I don’t mind being vocal with boys either.