Maties Rugby enters its 150th year in 2025, marking a significant milestone in South African rugby history. Founded in 1875 with a match played on Die Braak - and with a round ball - our club has grown into one of the most formidable institutions in the game.
Today, Maties Rugby is the second-oldest club in South Africa and the largest competitive rugby club in the southern hemisphere.
With over 900 registered players across 36 teams, Maties Rugby remains central to student rugby in South Africa, with players competing year-round in leagues that continue to draw a strong and loyal following. Our Campus Rugby programme remains a cornerstone of our success, with 740 players participating in 2024, supported by committed fans who show up in all conditions.
Maties Rugby has long been a proving ground for elite talent, producing 182 Springboks, along with national players, coaches, and administrators who have left a lasting impact on the sport. More than just a rugby club, Maties Rugby has built a legacy of excellence, leadership, and commitment - on and off the field.
150-Year Celebrations
To mark this milestone, and to include as many of our Maties Rugby family as possible, a series of events will take place throughout the year, including:
- Commemorative matches
- Golf days
- Symposiums
- A fundraising initiative to strengthen the Maties Rugby Bursary Fund, to ensure that we can continue to attract and develop the country’s best young talent (see details below).
Varsity Cup 2025 – Opening Game at Danie Craven Stadium
The official kick off to the 150-year celebrations is set for February 17, 2025, with the Varsity Cup season opener at Danie Craven Stadium. The match will be televised, but nothing replaces the experience of watching it live. Supporter packages are available (see below).
Preparing for the Season
The new year started with intensive pre-season training camps for our Men’s Seniors, Young Guns, and Women’s teams as they prepare for a demanding season. The teams will be led by:
- Ezekiel Ngobeni (Men’s Seniors)
- Tjaart Joubert (Young Guns)
- Liza Slabbert (Women’s Team)
Acknowledging Our Supporters and Partners
Maties Rugby’s continued success is made possible by the loyalty and support of our donors, sponsors, and funders. Their contributions enable us to remain competitive in the modern rugby landscape while upholding the standards of a high-performance program.
A special thank you to our major partners:
- Mitchum – Club sponsor
- Adam Piper – Campus Rugby sponsor
- Snapp – Kit bags partner
- Hi-Tec – Off-field apparel partner
- SAB & PenBev – Pouring rights partners
- FNB – Varsity Cup sponsor
Their continued support helps sustain and grow Maties Rugby, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of student rugby.
A Legacy to Inspire
Our 150-year celebrations are not just about the past - they reaffirm our commitment to the future. Maties Rugby’s ambition remains clear: to set the standard for student rugby, develop outstanding players and leaders, and uphold the traditions that have made this club what it is today.
We look forward to seeing you at Coetzenburg.
DRIKUS HANCKE
Head of Maties Rugby