Let’s Vote for the Purple Army: Back NWU in the ‘Cheerleaders That Rock’ 2026 Battle!
- Karen Scheepers
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
The stadium lights aren’t the only things shining bright during this year’s FNB Varsity Cup. While the hits on the field have been bone-crunching and the tries spectacular, a different kind of competition is heating up on the sidelines and across digital screens nationwide. The entries are officially locked in, the pom-poms have been fluffed, and now it is the turn of the fans to get involved because voting is officially OPEN for the 2026 Cheerleaders That Rock competition!
This isn’t just about coordinated dances and catchy chants; it’s a showcase of the incredible energy, athleticism, and university spirit that defines the Varsity Cup and Shield experience. For the North-West University (NWU), the stakes couldn’t be higher as they look to translate their rugby dominance into sideline glory. With the NWU Eagles already soaring into the FNB Varsity Cup final after a clinical 50–10 dismantling of Maties, the Purple Army now needs to bring that same winning momentum to the voting booths.
The Current Standings: A Two-Horse Race at the Top
As of the latest updates, the voting polls are absolutely buzzing, and it is a dead heat at the summit. Leading the pack with a commanding 17% of the public vote is none other than the NWU cheerleading squad. The Purple Army has turned out in droves to support their team, showcasing the same loyalty they bring to the stands at the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds.
However, the competition is fierce. SPU (Sol Plaatje University) is currently tied with NWU at 17%, making this a thrilling battle for digital supremacy. Closely following the leaders are WSU (15%) and UFH (10%), proving that the "Shield" universities are bringing massive energy to this year's competition. Other heavyweights like Maties (6%), Madibaz (5%), and Tuks (3%) have some serious ground to make up if they want to catch the flying Eagles from Potchefstroom.
More Than Just a Popularity Contest
While the public vote adds a layer of excitement and fuels the rivalry between campuses, the crown isn't won on clicks alone. In a move to ensure professional excellence, the winners will be determined by a combination of fan engagement and expert evaluation.
The South African Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (SAMCA) has partnered with the Varsity Cup to provide professional judging. Each squad has submitted a high-energy performance video that is currently being scrutinized by a SAMCA judge for technical difficulty, synchronization, and overall spirit. This hybrid scoring system ensures that while a team like NWU might have the biggest fan base, they must also deliver world-class choreography to take home the gold.
What’s on the Line for the Squads?
The incentive for these student-athletes is significant. Beyond the prestige of being named the best in South Africa, the top three squads will walk away with cash prizes to boost their programs and reward their hard work throughout the season:
1st Place: R10,000
2nd Place: R5,000
3rd Place: R2,000
With the competition remaining fully virtual, every team, from UCT in the Cape to Emeris and Wits in the north, has an equal platform to shine. The virtual format allows for a consistent judging standard as the competition continues to grow, ensuring that location doesn't limit a squad's ability to participate.
How to Back the Purple Army
If you want to see NWU lift the trophy, time is running out. Fans can watch the official entries from all universities, including the high-flying NWU video, and cast their votes via the official Varsity Cup website. Whether you're a student, an alumnus, or just a fan of the energy NWU brings to the sidelines, every vote counts toward that final score.
The clock is ticking, voting officially closes at 5:00 PM on Monday, 13 April.
Final Whistle
The energy is infectious, and the passion is undeniable. As we head into the final days of the competition, the spotlight remains firmly on the NWU cheerleaders as they fight to keep their nose ahead of SPU and the rest of the chasing pack.
The ultimate winners will be announced under the grandest spotlight of all: during the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Final on Monday, 13 April, where NWU will also be battling Tuks for the rugby title. Will the NWU community carry their squad to the top of the podium, or will another university steal the show at the last second?
Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know who is bringing the loudest spirit this year. Get behind your colors, show your spirit, and let’s find out who truly rocks!
📣💜🦅🏆
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