2021 FNB Wits Varsity Cup Roundup
- Tshepiso Mametela
2021 FNB Wits Varsity Cup Roundup
A turbulent 2021 FNB Varsity Cup saw FNB Wits finish the season in eighth position on the combined log.
The team’s status as the kings of Jo’burg, however, remained intact following a 22-20 victory over cross-town rivals UJ in the seventh round, ensuring the much sought-after bragging rights for the next year.
The team's trio of Aidynn Cupido, Kevin du Randt and Setshaba Mokoena reflected on the campaign and shared their thoughts on the season and factors that may have affected their performance.
Aidynn Cupido, inside centre
The 2021 campaign was one with a lot of lessons and, in essence, disappointing considering that we had prepared to win, not only the games but the whole competition.
It was not at all what we had imagined, as we had set out a three-stage plan for success before the tournament but, unfortunately, we just weren't able to execute our plan for success.
It’s a tough one to deal with because we had everything we needed for success but that’s rugby; the ball does not always bounce your way. The team was prepared and focused and we put in the necessary hard yards.
It was, however, just one of those things where you can't always get what you want in life. Personally, I feel like we missed the Wits crowd during our games, it was one of our driving forces last year and helped us through some tough moments.
Aidynn Cupido of FNB Wits in action in the game against FNB Madibaz
Kevin du Randt, lock
The season presented many challenges in light of the current pandemic. We were privileged to be able to play sport and represent the University amid the then high coronavirus [alert] level.
I am not proud of the position in which we ended, as our intentions were to go all the way this year. So, it was not the sort of performance-based season we expected. However, I cannot doubt the commitment and effort shown from the players and coaching staff.
We really put in a lot of effort to equip ourselves with the best opportunity to do well, and that is why we are disappointed. In sport you get given opportunities and the people who utilise those best are usually the more successful.
We simply missed out on opportunities in the games we played. Personally, I gave my all for Wits, in playing and serving the team. I learned many lessons that I will take into the next phase of my life.
Kevin du Randt and Phillip Krause in action against FNB Maties
Setshaba Mokoena, fullback
Despite the season we had, having prepared well and with the players and processes in place to win the competition, it was impressive that the team didn’t give up.
We went to every bubble with a renewed and positive attitude and we were rewarded in the last bubble by winning the last two games of our campaign to end off with a bit of dignity to our name. I think the bubble environment was very tough, especially being student-athletes, we had to train, play, recover, and still study.
So, it was tough on the boys but, then again, all the Varsities were in the same position. There were a few hurdles along the road with the likes of Aidynn Cupido not being able to play in the first bubble along with Travis Gordon — both players who make a big difference to the side.
I don’t think we could have done anything differently; everything happens the way it’s supposed to and there is nothing we can do to change what has happened, except to learn and embrace our experiences.
Setshaba Mokoena of FNB Wits in action against FNB UWC