Christoff Etzebeth is eager to carve out his own path in the 2026 Varsity Cup, while drawing inspiration from his famous uncle.
The 20-year-old loosehead prop will represent Emeris (formerly Varsity College) in their debut season in the Varsity Cup. The Durban-based outfit open their campaign against UJ on Monday night.
Christoff, the son of Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth’s cousin Chris, admits carrying the Etzebeth surname comes with lots of expectation.
“We all know Eben is one of the best rugby players in the world,” he told Netwerk24. “Sometimes it can put a bit of pressure on you, but I’m really proud of my last name. I don’t pay too much attention to the talk, though. I just want to go out and play my best rugby.”
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The young prop, a former Boland Landbou pupil, says the two-time World Cup-winning Bok has played an active role in his development.
“Eben and I talk before big matches and he gives me advice,” Christoff said. “When I was still at school, he watched some of my games and sent me clips afterwards with feedback. He’s always willing to help and has never made me feel like I’m bothering him.”
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Like his uncle – who won the Varsity Cup with Ikeys in 2011 – Christoff is also contracted to the Sharks and featured for their U21 side last season.
“Eben is my biggest rugby hero,” he added. “Seeing someone from your own family make it at that level gives you belief that you can do it too.”
Varsity Cup Round 1 fixtures
Monday, 16 February
UFS Shimlas vs Maties (4:45pm, SuperSport)
Tuks vs UCT Ikeys (7pm, SuperSport)
CUT Ixias vs NWU Eagles (7pm)
UJ vs Emeris (7pm)
Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images
The post Varsity Cup gets another Etzebeth appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Christoff Etzebeth is eager to carve out his own path in the 2026 Varsity Cup, while drawing inspiration from his famous uncle.
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