FNB Maties Women’s new head coach, Aneesah Adams, will take the reins for the first time in the highly anticipated FNB Varsity Cup Women season opener against defending champions, FNB UFH Women, on Friday, 14 March, at Davidson Stadium in Alice, Eastern Cape.
This match will not only showcase the fierce competition between two of the top teams in the competition but will also mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Maroon Machine under Adams’ mentorship.
Adams, 28, from Somerset West, is excited to step up to the challenge. After FNB Maties fell short in the final to FNB UFH, losing 37-31 in the final, Adams is determined to help the team reclaim their dominant position.
“Losing the title last season was a setback, but it’s also a motivation,” said Adams.
“Our goal is to start with a strong statement and help the team reclaim our position at the top of the FNB Varsity Cup competition.”
With many experienced players graduating, the 2025 squad features 10 new faces, which presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
“It’s a fresh start, and while we would have liked more time to prepare, the players have adjusted well,” Adams explained.
“We’ve had warm-up games against a combined international team, Western Province Women’s Senior Team, and UWC [University of the Western Cape]. We will only know after the opening game against UFH where we are, but we’ve focused on positional skills during the off-season, and the team looks solid for the match.”
Despite the 2024 defeat, FNB Maties remained hungry for redemption after securing their first FNB Varsity Cup title in 2023 with a resounding 63-9 win over FNB UJ Women.
“This is a fresh start, and while the pressure is there, we’re focused on building a team that plays with pride and determination,” added Adams.
As both teams prepare for the season opener, fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with passion, strategy, and skill as FNB Maties look to make their mark in the 2025 season under the guidance of Adams.
Provisional squad (subject to change):
Layla Adams, Hannah Amy Bevis, Sisipho Mkeli, Zelmarie Pretorius, Sesethu Ntamnani, Erin Bond, Stefney-Rose De Vries, Michaella Evlambiou, Lekobane Maria Masebe, Kayleen Muggels, Liza Slabbert, Ziane Muller, Mijeane Fyer, Jihaan Benito, Taebron Jursa, Anoescka Andreas, Leah Cilliers, Jenna Daniel, Sjoukje Van Der Post, Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Nafeesah Adams, Kirsten Brits, Karabo Masilela, Juan-Mari Du Plessis, Sesethu Dumke, Taliyah Bussack, Sarah Krone, Ankia Viljoen, Jenna Meyer.
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
By: Adnaan Mohamed
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