The North-West University (NWU) Young Guns (YGs) defended their 2023 title after defeating FNB UFS Shimlas 39-36 in Bloemfontein on Monday, 22 April. The camaraderie between the coaching staff and players was exemplified on the field of play, as the NWU Eagles won the tournament for the second year in a row - without losing a game.

The Eagles were able to claim bragging rights thanks to tries from Hanro Venter (4), Pieter Coetzee, and Angelo Daniels. Michael Mosert's amazing footwork, together with a penalty, gave the Eagles the deserved win.

Acknowledgement is due to coach Hannes Esterhuisen and his coaching staff for keeping the NWU champions and advancing its caliber. This win must have been the cherry on top for a coach who has devoted his entire life to the beautiful game.

“It is always nice to win, but to win such a tough final in the end, is a massive relief and huge joy. I am delighted to see the happiness on their faces. For them to sit down and reflect on the hard work and sacrifices they made, and to be crowned champions in the end is a valuable lesson for them,” says coach Esterhuisen.

What differentiated the NWU Eagles from their opponents throughout the tournament?

“I think it is their growth throughout the tournament. Starting 16 weeks ago, we noticed the immaturity of these players fresh from high school. The boys still had to learn a lot, and after discussed rugby maturity with them, they dug deep and showed their worth. They have shown great character, pulling it through and fighting back each and every time.” 

What were the strong points of the team?

“We like to see ourselves as an attacking team, so we scored great tries. Keeping the ball in hand, the forwards scored just as much tries as the backs, showcasing their unity. It was truly a collective effort where the forwards and backs were playing a wider and closer game.”

What are some of the obstacles you faced throughout the tournament?

“Mostly injuries. We lost two key players in the second game against Maties to long-term injuries that took them out of the rest of the tournament. Time management was also tricky. Academics remain a priority, and we could only start training sessions after 18:00. We had to make the most of our time and had video sessions and training on Saturdays too.

Back-to-back titles, how did you achieve that?

I believe continuity and consistency are the key factors. We have the same coaching staff as last year - Durren Filles (forward and defense coach), Funani Mbala (manager and assistant coach), Johan Sauer (strength and conditioning coach), Elaine Geldenhuys (physiotherapist) and Jene Gallon (biokineticist) made sure the boys stayed in top form. The consistency of the junior programme at the rugby institute and us knowing each other well played a vital role in us winning back-to-back titles.   

What motivated the players to go for the win?

“They were inspired by the previous year’s success, and most of the boys were on the stands when we won the Varsity Young Guns last year. That inspired them to build on and to be part of the triumph.”

The warmest congratulations to the NWU Eagles Young Guns.