Seen are head coach for the Sol Plaatjie University rugby team Jonathan Francke, and captain Selle Maketlo. Picture: Danie van der Lith
A NEW era is dawning for Sol Plaatje University’s rugby team, the Gemmies, as they gear up for their Varsity Shield debut.
It’s a historic moment, and while the excitement is palpable, there’s also a deep sense of determination within the squad. This isn’t just about making an appearance – it’s about making a statement.
At the heart of this journey is head coach Jonathan Francke, a man who knows what it takes to compete at a high level, having played for Griquas against the country’s top teams and players. Now, Francke is channelling that experience and passion into a group of players who, up until a year ago, had never played together.
But what they’ve accomplished in that short time is nothing short of remarkable.
From Dream to Reality
When this project, to build a varsity rugby team, began the goal was clear: build a competitive group of players over three years. But the players had other ideas. Their hunger, commitment, and work ethic fast-tracked that timeline, proving they belonged on the big stage much sooner than expected.
“From the start, the guys bought into the vision,” Francke said. “They knew it wouldn’t be easy, but the sacrifices they’ve made, both on and off the field, have been incredible.”
The road to qualification for the Varsity Shield wasn’t a walk in the park. With a pool of just 30 players, injuries and back-to-back fixtures their resilience was tested. But despite the challenges – including facing TUT twice – the Gemmies never backed down, instead they stepped up and fought for their spot, and they earned it convincingly.
A Team with Character
Now, though a number of current Springbok players cut their teeth in this competition, this Gemmies squad isn’t built around flashy superstars – it’s built on teamwork, grit, and a style of play that demands effort from everyone.
“We want to play attacking rugby, but defence is where it all starts,” Francke explained. “We spent the off-season strengthening our basics – getting fitter, sharpening our skills, and building the right mentality for this competition.”
That mentality isn’t just about winning – it’s about standing together, backing each other up, and proving that they belong.
A City Behind Them
What makes this journey even more special is the support from the Kimberley rugby community. The city has embraced the Gemmies, eager to see their university go toe-to-toe with some of the country’s top teams.
“The support has been amazing,” Francke said. “The community wants us to succeed, and that belief gives us an extra edge.”
But, other teams be warned, the Gemmies aren’t just here to make up the numbers. They have their sights set on leaving a mark. Staying in the Varsity Shield beyond this season is priority number one, but they also want to show that they can compete with the best; and who knows, maybe even make the step up to the Varsity Cup one day.
“This is just the beginning for us,” Francke added. “We’re here to make an impact, and we’re here to stay.”
With a team built on passion and hard work and a city backing them all the way, the Gemmies are ready to announce themselves on the Varsity Shield stage. And if their journey so far is anything to go by, they won’t be going unnoticed.
Be there at the Suzuki Stadium when their match against the University of KwaZulu-Natal kicks off at 5pm on Friday. Admission to the game is free.
FOR THE RECORD:
After the Sol Plaatje University rugby team hammered the Durban University of Technology with an impressive 59-5 score in the final of the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament, they had to face Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in the promotion play-off match to earn a spot in the Varsity Shield.
That’s where things got a bit complicated.
SPU didn’t just beat TUT once to qualify for the Varsity Shield – they had to beat them twice.
After SPU’s initial triumph over TUT on August 12, which was supposed to have secured their place in the tournament, TUT lodged a formal complaint, claiming that SPU had fielded an ineligible player, giving them an unfair advantage, and the match was replayed in September.
SPU eventually claimed their place in the Varsity Shield with a hard fought 20-17 win over TUT, leaving no doubt about their place in the Varsity Shield competition.
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