Ikey Tigers rally supporters with new jersey ahead of 2025 Varsity Cup

In the world of sports, supporters play a profound, multifaceted and integral role in their team’s success. That’s why the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Ikey Tigers went all out to unveil their new supporters’ jersey ahead of the 2025 Varsity Cup tournament.

Although the Ikeys have been a formidable force in the tournament – winning twice and finishing as runners-up four times – their last championship victory was 11 years ago. Now, they are counting on their ‘16th man’ to help push them one step further than last year and reclaim the trophy.

“Varsity Cup is very taxing on our players. It’s a long season from February to April, and they need as much backing and support as possible,” said student Khanya Ndlovu, one of UCT’s cheerleaders. “That’s where we, as the UCT community, come in. Supporters have a chance to show what they can do – both at the UCT field and at other venues where the team will be playing.”

But supporting the team isn’t just about winning; it’s about building champions and strengthening social cohesion, said UCT Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela.

“You know, sport and rugby bring people together. Let’s make sure we use it to unite us and to have a good time.”

“You know, sport and rugby bring people together. Let’s make sure we use it to unite us and to have a good time. And when we support rugby, we are also supporting UCT. Let’s show up for our team and make sure we’re at the games,” said Professor Moshabela.

He also reminded aspiring rugby players that the Varsity Cup has been a stepping stone for many professional and World Cup champions. Notable names include Eben Etzebeth, now the joint most-capped Springbok alongside Victor Matfield; Damian de Allende, Huw Jones, Imad Khan, Francois van Wyk, Nama Xaba, Gary Porter, JJ Gagiano, Nick Fenton-Wells, and Vince Jobo, among many others.

“We must remember that champions are born out of these experiences,” Moshabela added. “We need to ensure that we give them the support and encouragement they deserve.”

The newly launched supporters’ T-shirt, he said, represents more than just a piece of merchandise – it’s a symbol of commitment to UCT rugby and to the university itself. “Let’s make sure we get that T-shirt. See you all on Monday!”

New season, new look

Ikeys marketing manager, Zomusa Thango, said that the event was designed to give supporters a taste of what’s to come and encourage students and staff to sign up for supporters’ groups.

“Every year, we have a unique supporters’ jersey. You can’t wear last year’s one. We’ll look at you funny because we have a new design!” Thango joked.

Looking at the long queue of students eager to claim their T-shirts, Thango said it was incredible to see how people wanted to be part of something that truly belongs to them. “This is us sharing a part of UCT that many don’t always get to experience. It’s about showing that they can get merchandise that represents them and their institution.”

“I worked hard to be here at UCT, and I have to support my team. This T-shirt really symbolises being part of the UCT community, which is so vast. I feel incredibly privileged to be here, and wearing this T-shirt seals the deal for me,” she said.

Excited about the upcoming Varsity Cup match on Monday, 17 February at the Green Mile, Jokazi has already followed the Ikeys on social media, secured her tickets, and is ready to join the fun on match day and beyond. Ikeys will be playing against FNB NWS Eagles.

Read about the fixtures and logs.