Joy as UCT’s Ikey Tigers bring Varsity Cup glory back to campus

It was a celebration nothing short of perfect – a championship team returning to where their journey began, sharing the joy and pride of victory with the communities that shaped and supported them.

This week, the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) senior rugby team, the Ikey Tigers, could not have asked for better sunny weather as they paraded their Varsity Cup trophy through neighbouring schools and across campus, greeted by cheers, songs, heartfelt applause and words of appreciation.

From neighbouring feeder schools like the South African College (SACS) and Wynberg Boys’, to Rondebosch, Bishops and on campus, the excitement was palpable. Some students and staff gave up their break times, while others adjusted their schedules, all eager to welcome back the champions who had led UCT to its first Varsity Cup victory in a decade.

Among the stars was Aden da Costa – Wynberg Boys’ High School’s head boy just six months ago – who, along with several former Wynberg boys, played a pivotal role in the Ikeys’ stunning success.

As da Costa and eight of his teammates stepped onto the field at Wynberg, the crowd erupted with chants, songs and dance in celebration of their champion. “It feels amazing to be back,” he said, visibly moved. “UCT feels like the Wynberg Old Boys’ team. This school made us who we are.  Your support carried us through the season, and today we just want to say thank you.”

Walking through the school gates brought a flood of memories to him, da Costa said. “It was quite emotional. I was only here six months ago, but it feels like yesterday. Seeing all the boys in uniform again, the energy here is incredible. I was here from Grade R until I completed matric. This place gave me motivation, role models, and a foundation I wouldn’t trade for anything. Without God and this school, I wouldn’t be where I am.”

He praised the current players, too, confident in their potential. “There are so many talented boys, especially in the first team. Many will go as far as I did, maybe even further. I can’t wait to see their journeys unfold.”

Ikeys captain Sipho Dyonase, also a Wynberg alumnus, reflected on his path. “I was here in 2020 – not so long ago – and the school gave us so much. Coming back now feels like a full-circle moment.”

“If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead.”

Dyonase singled out a powerful leadership lesson from his time at Wynberg: “I was taught that true leadership is service. If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead. It’s about helping others, showing up, not chasing titles. That mindset has shaped my university leadership roles. It all started here.”

Staying connected to his roots remains important. “We still play touch rugby every Saturday, support the boys, and keep in touch with teachers. At Old Boys’ dinners, I’ll be there reconnecting because this field is where it all began, even when I’m playing at big stadiums now.”

For current Wynberg players, seeing these champions return was inspiring. One young player said, “It’s a privilege to watch former head boy Aden da Costa and the Ikeys back at school after winning the finals. It’s a moment we’ll never forget. Their success shows us what’s possible.”

The local schools have long been talent pipelines for UCT rugby. Coaches connected to both institutions strengthen these bonds, helping students balance sports and academics. As Nic Groom, who coached the Ikeys and now heads rugby at Wynberg Boys, said, “Most boys aim for higher education, and with UCT so close, it’s a real motivator.”

Mark Bashe, UCT Sports Manager, highlighted the deeper significance of these visits: “We’re here to celebrate the schools that have directly shaped not just our rugby players but UCT students across many sports. Our 2024 Varsity Cup team had a strong contingent from Wynberg, Rondebosch, SACS, and Bishops, among others. These schools are our partners in sport and education.”

He added, “SACS, for example, shares history, heritage, and pride with UCT. Their support goes beyond rugby. They’ve produced talented students in hockey, swimming, and more. Events like this help strengthen those lifelong connections.”

Samuel Berman, a Grade 12 student at SACS, shared his own story. “I was injured in the first rugby practice so I couldn’t play this season. But being part of the Spirit Committee, hyping the team, and welcoming the Ikeys today means a lot. It’s special to have the Varsity Cup champions here – something we’ll remember forever.”

“Our boys admire these champions, not only for their rugby but for their discipline and achievements.”

Headmaster Brendan Grant at SACS echoed the sentiment: “Hosting the UCT Ikeys today was wonderful. There’s a proud, long-standing relationship between SACS and UCT. Our boys admire these champions, not only for their rugby but for their discipline and achievements. Many dream of following their path, balancing sport and academics, and seeing the Ikeys here only fuels those dreams.”

The excitement was electrifying on campus, too. Students and staff, led by UCT Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Mosa Moshabela, surrounded the team to share the joy of winning the Varsity Cup. Professor Moshabela congratulated the team while Dyonase thanked the university community for their unwavering support.

After taking a photograph with the trophy and two players, a visibly excited student who had attended all the home games said  “Holding the cup was amazing. The theme, the atmosphere, everything was incredible. I went to all the games, and it was such an astonishing experience.”

Mfundo Qwabe, who works for the Campus Protection Services, added that the achievement meant a great deal to  staff, students, and the broader university community. “Thank you guys for bringing this cup home. This means that UCT is not only focusing on teaching and learning. It also accommodates sport, culture and other things. To win a cup like this is phenomenal. This university is moving towards the right direction.”