Reflecting on last season’s approach, the FNB WSU head coach Thembani Mkokeli made it clear that short-term gains were never the priority, underlining a long-term vision that now begins to take shape as WSU heads into the 2026 Varsity Shield campaign with greater clarity, purpose, and ambition.
Mkokeli says the bigger-picture approach has laid a stronger foundation, one built on development, cohesion, and a squad now ready to turn long-term vision into tangible results in 2026.
“Last year season we could have easily chased win percentage, but we decided not to because there was a bigger picture,” said WSU head coach Thembani Mkokeli.
“We were building squad depth, I mean, in certain positions we had to find or expose some players to find out if they are good enough to play in this tournament.”
With their focus firmly on the bigger picture this season, WSU are determined to take it game by game while steadily building towards a playoff push.
“The teams’ expectations this season are to be in the playoffs of the competition,” he said.
“Our strategy is to take it game by game and week by week cover all the areas that we need to cover in order for us to reach our standards. Preparations and training have been good. There is a good energy and good team spirit to the team, and there is a good connection.”
Lukhangele Tshayi will captain the side this season. Highly respected by his teammates and equally respectful in return, he brings strong leadership qualities, composure, and a steady presence that make him a natural choice to lead the team forward.
“Our squad at the moment have eight players who represented Border U/21, who are the champions in 2025. At this point, we have some players who earned provincial contracts for this season with Border Bulldogs,” concluded Mkokeli.
Walter Sisulu University will kick off their campaign on Friday, 13 February at 7pm against recently relegated FNB Wits.
FNB WSU provisional squad
Ahlule Zokoza, Amyoli Beja, Aryikwei Mvano Robert Quao, Asenam Mniki, Asisipho Jim, Axola Mtalana, Azasakhe Puwani, Bukho Hani, Bulelani Amyoli Nondlwana, Emihle Mbacwana, Inathinkosi Mhlakaza, Isiphe Mbini, Khanyiso Mncono, Khonaye Mbakaza, Liyabona Kasibe, Liyema Ndlazi, Lisakhanya Yawa, Lizole Hebe, Lukhangele Tshayi, Luvo Zindela, Luzuko Fumba, Lwandile Majozi, Mangaliso Zixesha, Mihlali Nohoyeka, Ntandazo Mboniswa, Owen Posholi, Papama Mda, Paseka Mokoena, Qhayiya Makalima, Sandisiwe Mkwayimba, Sinentlahla Kesa, Sinethemba Buhlungu, Siyamtemba Ncapayi, Sipho Hobosch, Sosulwe Mqonci, Thembela Folo, Yoyisa Mahobe.