Varsity Cup brings NFL posts to South Africa

FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International is about to add another world first to the competition. The Varsity Cup semi-finals and the final will see the traditional rugby posts replaced with the American National Football League (NFL) style posts.

FNB and Steinhoff International have introduced this new innovation to place the NFL style posts at the semi-final and final venues in order to help FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International cement its place as a leader in sportainment. The dimensions for these new posts are the same as the current rugby post above the crossbar, with the exception that it stands on one leg and has a catching net.

Monday night’s action will see FNB Shimlas host defending champions FNB Ikeys at Xerox Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. The kick-off is at 16:45, while FNB Tuks will host FNB Pukke at the Tuks Rugby stadium in Pretoria in the 19:00 kick-off.

Such innovations are not without their challenges, though. The new-look poles might be somewhat challenging for the kickers, as it will be a first for both teams, but both universities will have a captain’s run on Friday in order to have a remedy and any major concerns and have a trial at kicking towards them.

“This is an exciting opportunity for FNB to play a pivotal role in positioning the FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International as one of the most innovative sporting brands in the world. This stage of the competition is exhilarating on and off the field, and this innovation will add to the intrigue,” said Mari van Niekerk, FNB Senior Communication and Sponsorship Manager.

“Our partnership with the FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International goes back a long way, and we understand how important it is to constantly innovate in modern sport. The players will no doubt offer plenty of entertainment on the field and adding these poles will ensure that the rugby never stops rocking,” said AJ Valentine, Steinhoff International Sponsorship manager.