Three players from the North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute played for the South African teams that won gold at the regional Confederation of University and Colleges Sports Associations (CUCSA) games at the Tshwane University of Technology's Pretoria Campus.

Lesego Motsepe and Lucky Letwaba were selected for the men’s team, and Lethabo Moemi for the women's team. Both teams won gold during the games.

CUCSA, established in 1990 in Lusaka, brings together national university and college sports associations from Africa's Zone VI countries. Athletes from Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and South Africa participated in the 21st CUCSA Zone VI Games.

Lethabo, who plays attacking midfielder for the NWU women's soccer team, expressed her delight at being selected for the South African team.

"It was indeed a great experience and a lifetime opportunity. I would like to thank our head coach Azania Moshushu and the management for believing in and supporting me. Most importantly I thank my teammates – I wouldn't be this far if it wasn't for them."

Lucky also shares his thoughts on the experience. "Representing the NWU and contributing to the country's victory at the CUCSA games was a significant milestone. It fuelled my ambition to reach greater heights in varsity football."

Lesego says it is a big honour and a privilege to have been selected. “I've always worked towards representing my country, and I'm honoured and proud to put on the colours of this great nation of ours.

"It started off tough, but as the team grew into the tournament, we became stronger and stronger, leading us to winning the trophy that we had to defend. All in all, it was a great tournament and success for the nation."

Lesego Motsepe.

Lethabo Moemi.

Lucky Letwaba.