University of the Witwatersrand came alive on April 14 as its rugby team celebrated their FNB Varsity Shield 2026 triumph with a spirited parade at the Wits Great Hall.

The players, who completed an unbeaten run to secure the title on April 10, were welcomed by the university community in recognition of what has been described as an incredible season of resilience and determination. The celebration marked a full-circle moment for the team, who had faced relegation in 2025 before staging a remarkable comeback under the guidance of their coaching staff and university leadership.

Read more: Marks Park Valkyries address lack of girls rugby opportunities with structured training programme

Vice-chancellor and principal, Zeblon Vilakazi, addressed the gathering, reflecting on the team’s journey and the symbolic significance of the day.

Vilakazi praised the players for their commitment throughout the year, describing them as warriors who had put their bodies on the line for the team and the institution. He also acknowledged the role played by the coaching team, the dean of student affairs, Jerome September, and broader support structures in helping the side recover from last year’s setback.

Read more: UJ confers honorary doctorate on rugby legend and nation-builder Francois Pienaar

Emphasising the scale of the achievement, he told the players they now stood as undisputed champions and had earned their place in the next level of competition, closing off his remarks with a note of pride and congratulations.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!