Meanwhile, FNB Varsity College enter the big league after lifting the FNB Varsity Shield trophy and earning promotion. The team will compete in the FNB Varsity Cup in 2026 under the new Emeris brand name. Emeris is a team stepping up with belief and hunger that will be looking to make an immediate impact.
FNB Emeris Club Manager, Malcolm Kennedy, is embracing the opportunity.
“Winning the Varsity Shield in only our second season was an incredibly proud moment for Emeris. It validated the work that has gone on behind the scenes from our players and coaching staff to the broader support structures and showed that our program is built on strong foundations. For the team and the institution, it was more than just a trophy; it was confirmation that we belong at the highest level of university rugby.”
Head Coach Jeremy McLaren echoed that sentiment:
“I’m really proud of what the players and management have achieved. Any university will always dream of being able to play in an FNB Varsity Cup campaign. It’s one of the top competitions in South Africa, so we are really, really happy to be the newbies. It means a lot to put our university on the map. We’re history makers and very excited to be part of it.”