While the North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute celebrated their promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship in Mthatha this past week, one of its student-athletes returned home with an additional accolade that underscored the successful campaign of the team.

Khunganani Sigadi, a first-year student and key member of the NWU Soccer Institute, was named Player of the Tournament at the 2026 ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs held from 2 to 7 June in Mthatha. The award, which carried a prize of R100 000, recognised his outstanding performances throughout the tournament as the NWU secured promotion to the second-tier professional football league in South Africa.

The honour capped a remarkable week for Sigadi, who played a pivotal role in helping the university side navigate a demanding competition featuring provincial champions from across the country.

For the NWU Soccer Institute head coach Nkululeko Malgas, the recognition was a proud moment, not only for the player but also for the programme that brought him to the university.

“When we approached him to come and study, he did not think twice,” said coach Malgas. “He decided to leave the DDC side of Chippa United for us because he believed in the opportunity that was presented to him.”

Coach Malgas explained that Sigadi's move to the NWU was supported by one of his long-time coaching colleagues who had played a significant role in the player's development.

“I also influenced his coach who groomed him, as he is a long-time friend of mine. He wanted Khunga to be an example for his team and inspire the up-and-coming players that he has. I believe that he has surpassed those expectations with this achievement,” he said.

The award highlights the growing success of the model of combining academic development with high-performance sport followed by the NWU Soccer Institute. While making his mark on the football field, Sigadi is simultaneously pursuing a diploma in sports coaching at the NWU.

His achievement comes at a historic time for the NWU Soccer Institute, which secured promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after an impressive run through the national playoffs. The team's success means it will compete in the professional football structures in South Africa next season, marking a significant milestone in the history of the institute.

Coach Malgas believes Sigadi's achievement sends an important message to young footballers considering their futures beyond the game.

“This achievement shows that players do not have to choose between education and football. Khunga has demonstrated that it is possible to pursue your studies while competing at the highest level. He has become an example of what can happen when talent, discipline and education come together,” he said.

As the celebrations continue following the team's promotion, Sigadi's Player of the Tournament award serves as further evidence of the quality within the NWU Soccer Institute setup. For the young student-athlete, the recognition marks another step in what promises to be a bright football career, while for the NWU, it is a reminder of the impact of investing in both academic and sporting excellence.

Khunganani Sigadi, a first-year diploma in sports coaching student at the NWU, was named Player of the Tournament at the 2026 ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs in Mthatha after helping the NWU Soccer Institute secure their promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.