Varsity Men’s Hockey to commence this weekend

Varsity Hockey returns to the UJ Astro Turf in Johannesburg this weekend. The competition focusses on both women and men’s hockey with the two codes being played annually on a rotational basis. This year, it’s the men who will be taking part from 6 – 9 May 2016 for the first leg, with the second leg taking place in Stellenbosch at the Maties Astro Turf from 13 – 16 May 2016.

Teams from eight universities will take to the astro this year, including Madibaz, UCT, UJ, UP-Tuks, Maties, Wits, NWU-Puk, and UFS-Kovsies. During the 2014 season, it was the UJ men’s hockey team who reigned supreme, defeating Maties in a dramatic penalty shootout. The question is, who will come out on top this year?

“Varsity Hockey affords fantastic opportunities to our young players, allowing them to prepare for other tournaments ahead of them,” said Jana Arlow, Varsity Hockey Manager. “They have such passion and love for the sport, and will certainly do their universities proud during Varsity Hockey 2016.”

“The fact that there are multiple national players that are representing their respective universities at this year’s Varsity Hockey competition, ensures a top quality competition for all fans to enjoy,” said Flip van Zyl, CEO of USC. “And these hockey players will be showing off their skills for South Africa to see, in hopes to have their university take home the winner’s trophy at the end of the tournament.”

Hockey has always been an enjoyable sport for spectators of all ages. The game is easy to understand and the competitive spirit of the athletes, as they vie for top honours, shouldn’t be missed. Fans can catch all the action live at UJ, with free entry to all matches.

They will be treated to live music, on-field entertainment, sponsor giveaways thanks to Mugg & Bean, FNB, Jet and Samsung, and refreshments throughout the day.

All four fixtures on Monday night, 9 May, can be viewed live on SuperSport 7 and SuperSport Select.

Matches commence at 13h30 on Friday, 6 May, where Wits will take on NWU-Puk.

Fixtures: