Sport

Athletes nominated for North West Sports Awards

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:23:58 +0000

Athletes nominated for North West Sports Awards

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 11/21/2024 - 12:23

Several athletes and coaches from the North-West University (NWU) have been recognised for their outstanding achievements in sports, earning nominations for the North West Sports Awards. The event is set to take place on 23 November at the Rio Casino Hotel in Klerksdorp.

The nominees include Paralympian and 800 m world record holder Liezel Gouws, Paris Olympics silver medallist Jo-Anne van Dyk, coach of the Mahikeng Campus women’s football team Azania Moshushu, and long-distance runner Elroy Gelant.

Not only did these individuals excel in their respective fields, but they have also brought national and international recognition for the NWU and the North West province.

The annual awards, organised by the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) and the North West Sports Confederation (NWSC), aim to honour individuals and teams that have made significant contributions to sports in the province.

Liezel received nominations in three categories: Sportswoman of the Year, Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability, and Sports Star of the Year. The Sports Star of the Year category will be decided through a public vote conducted via WhatsApp. Liezel, a Paralympian who continues to break barriers, has been a key figure in promoting inclusivity in athletics.

Jo-Anne, who secured a silver medal in javelin at the Paris Olympics, is also nominated for Sportswoman of the Year. Her performances have positioned her as one of South Africa’s top athletes in her discipline.

Elroy has been nominated for Sportsman of the Year. A seasoned competitor, he reached the finals of the 5 000 meters at the 2016 Rio Olympics, competed in the marathon at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, and has represented South Africa in various international competitions.

Azania, who led the Mahikeng Campus women football team to victory in the North West Sasol Football League, is nominated for Coach of the Year. Her leadership has been instrumental in the team’s success, showcasing the NWU’s commitment to developing sports talent.

Liezel Gouws

Jo-Anne van Dyk

Azania Moshushu

Elroy Gelant

Olympic stars claim top sport awards

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 07:56:36 +0000

Olympic stars claim top sport awards

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 10/28/2024 - 09:56

The North-West University’s (NWU) two Olympic superstars, Bradley Nkoana and Jo-Ané van Dyk, were back on the podium when they were presented with top sporting awards at NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus.

These two remarkable athletes are both the pride of the nation and the NWU after both bagged silver at the Olympic Games in Paris, France earlier this year. Jo-Ané won silver in the javelin at the Olympics, gold at the All-African Games in Ghana, gold at the African Championships in Cameroon and set a personal best of 64,22 m in the Olympic qualifying rounds.

Bradley also won silver as part of the men’s 4 x 100 m relay team. He also won bronze in the 100 m at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, Peru.

The duo was named Sportswoman and Sportsman of the Year. Netball star Sanmarie Visser was named Junior Sportswoman of the Year, and the Team of the Year award went to the NWU Young Guns rugby team, who won the national Young Guns competition for the second year in a row – and they did so without losing a single game.

In addition to the many merit awards, residence awards, coaching awards and para-awards, excellence awards were given to Charl Greyling (hammer throw), Naledi Makgatha (1500 m and 4 x 400 m), Viwe Jingqi (100 m), Ethan Olivier (triple jump), Benjamin Richardson (100 m), Rogail Joseph (400 m hurdles), Elroy Gelant (marathon), Brian Raats (high jump), as well as Bradley and Jo-Ané.

These athletes and many more showed once again why the NWU is one of South Africa’s top sports universities.

Prof Daryl Balia and Bradley Nkoana

Prof Daryl Balia and Sanmarie Visser

NWU Soccer Institute produces first PhD graduate

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 10:44:03 +0000

NWU Soccer Institute produces first PhD graduate

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 10/03/2024 - 12:44

The North-West University's (NWU) Soccer Institute marked an important milestone on 3 October 2024 as it celebrated its first PhD graduate. The recipient, Mr Vuyolwethu Sambo, is both a former player and the current manager of the institute. His achievement highlights the institute’s dedication to developing not only soccer talent but also well-rounded individuals who contribute academically and professionally.

Sambo's PhD thesis focused on assessing the implementation of school sports policy in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. His research identified gaps in understanding and investigating the necessary components to implement the sports strategy in local schools, as well as the roles of key stakeholders. He recommended a more comprehensive approach, which includes the training of teachers to improve policy implementation.

Sambo's connection with the NWU began in 2007 when he enrolled for a Bachelor of Administration degree after matriculating from the South African Football Association’s Transnet School of Excellence. Joining the Soccer Institute’s programme allowed him to combine his academic and athletic pursuits. With the support of the institute, he earned an honours degree and went on to obtain a Master of Public Administration.

Preparing for life after soccer

The institute operates with the understanding that soccer careers can be short-lived. As a result, academic achievement and personal development are prioritised. Students follow a three-year university curriculum alongside their soccer training, which provides them with a strong foundation to build on after their soccer careers. This approach includes advanced training methods, sports science and mentorship to ensure well-rounded development.

Sambo’s journey reflects the success of this model. He was one of the first students to join the institute, which opened its doors in 2007, and went on to captain the team that won back-to-back University Sport South Africa (USSA) championships in 2009 and 2010. His teammates included notable players such as Thabo Rakhale, Luvolwethu Mpeta and Boalefa Pule.

Setting the tone from the top

Since taking on the role of manager, Sambo has led the institute to a series of achievements. The team won the Varsity Football title in 2019, reached the final in 2024, and made history by reaching the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup in 2020. The team also won the North West Province ABC Motsepe League in 2022.

Under his leadership, the institute has produced several professional players, including Lindani Nkabinde, Mandisi Gadla, and Tshepiso Mahlangu.

The institute has also seen academic success, with over 60 players graduating from various programmes. The women’s football team made its mark by winning the USSA Section B Championship in 2023 and securing the 2024 North West Sasol Football League title.

Commenting on Sambo’s latest achievement, NWU Soccer Institute Coach Nkululeko Khwezilomso Malgas commended him as a role model for others. “It's a good thing to see him getting his PhD, and it's an inspiration to us across technical members and players. Congratulations to him.”

Sambo’s achievement as the first PhD graduate reflects the institute’s broader commitment to fostering excellence both on and off the field.

Vuyo Sambo

Mini-Cricket festival showcases young talent

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 07:20:55 +0000

Mini-Cricket festival showcases young talent

by Zenoyise John

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 09/26/2024 - 09:20

The North-West University's (NWU’s) Sports Business Management Department recently hosted a Mini-Cricket festival as part of a community engagement initiative, aiming to promote youth participation in sports, particularly cricket, among primary school students in the Vaal Triangle region.

The event took place at the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus and was a resounding success, drawing in participants and spectators from all over the region. It provided a wonderful opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talents and engage in friendly competition.

The event was organised by Dr Anita Lennox, Jackie Bonnema and Fanie Roos, and focused on mini-cricket teams consisting of children aged six to nine. Notably, the NWU, Spur and RocoMamas proudly sponsored the event, contributing to its success and impact.

Dr Lennox says the purpose of the event was to promote youth engagement in sports, foster teamwork among children, and to provide an opportunity for schools to participate in an organised cricket event.

"The festival served as a platform to connect communities through sport. In addition to being a festival for kids, the NWU Mini-Cricket event integrated teaching and learning into its structure, with NWU students involved in the planning and execution of the festival. This hands-on experience helped students develop skills in event management, community outreach and teamwork, complementing their academic studies," she says.

Dr Lennox says she is satisfied with the event, and that it provided valuable hands-on experience for students in organising a large-scale sporting event. She adds that the strong participation from schools across the Vaal Triangle region highlighted the success of the event.

"The sense of community and camaraderie that permeated the festival was truly heartwarming. It was evident that the event had a positive impact on all those involved. We had a significant turnout, with a total of 590 kids, around 850 spectators, and 110 coaches in attendance," says Dr Lennox. She adds that the event also strengthened relationships between local schools and brought families together to support youth sports in the region.

“The success of this year's event sets a promising precedent for future engagements and reaffirms the commitment to promoting youth participation in sports within the Vaal Triangle region.”

The NWU Mini-Cricket event is an annual initiative, with the next festival scheduled for 6 September 2025.

NWU prepares for semi-final clash against UJ in Varsity Netball

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 07:16:13 +0000

NWU prepares for semi-final clash against UJ in Varsity Netball

by Phenyo Mokgothu

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 09/26/2024 - 09:16

The North-West University (NWU) netball team is gearing up for a highly anticipated semi-final showdown against the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in the Varsity Netball tournament.

The two teams previously faced off in round 5, where UJ secured a victory. Now, the NWU is determined to turn the tables and secure a spot in the final.

Reflecting on the upcoming match, head coach Elsunet du Plessis shares insights on the team’s preparations. After losing to UJ earlier in the season, Elsunet and her squad have analysed their round 5 performance closely.

"We have focused on refining key areas from that game. We have worked on countering UJ's strengths, especially in their attack, and making necessary adjustments. The team is ready and motivated for this rematch."

A key concern for the NWU is UJ’s height advantage in their shooting circle. Coach Elsunet emphasises that keeping the pressure on UJ's attack will be critical. "Their height in the shooting circle is something we need to be prepared for. Our defence will have to be sharp, and we will focus on continuous pressure to disrupt their play."

NWU captain Martine Jordaan expresses the team's excitement and determination heading into the semi-final. "Right now, we are taking it as just another game, focusing on ourselves rather than the opponent. We are motivated and ready to showcase what we can do."

Martine, who has been a steadying force for her teammates throughout the season, doesn’t plan on changing her approach for this critical match. "For me, nothing changes in terms of leadership. My aim is to keep my team calm and focused. We will look back at round 5 to see what worked and where we can improve, but overall, we will stick to what we know works for us."

Despite the earlier defeat to UJ, Martine is confident that the NWU’s recent form, especially after a strong performance against Maties, puts the team in a good position. "Going into the semis, the competition essentially starts over. We are in a great space, and the focus is on maintaining the momentum we have built."

With everything to play for, the NWU will be looking to execute its game plan and secure a place in the final.

NWU set for epic Varsity Football final showdown against UWC

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:40:47 +0000

NWU set for epic Varsity Football final showdown against UWC

by Phenyo Mokgothu

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 09/23/2024 - 15:40

The North-West University (NWU) is set to face the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in the Varsity Football final on 26 September at NWU Mahikeng Stadium. After an exciting season, the NWU will host its sixth and final game, marking the climax of their home campaign and setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

Coach Nkululeko Khwezilomso Malgas, who earlier in the season predicted the NWU would host six matches, reflects on the journey leading to this moment. “The crowd has been amazing, and I thought it would be unfair for us not to play the last two matches at home. Finals are tricky; you can’t read too much into previous results. They often go to the team that needs it the most, with a bit of luck,” he says, acknowledging the importance of the support his team has received throughout the campaign.

As the team prepares for the final, coach Malgas highlights their progress, but stresses the ongoing need for preparation. "We’ve done so much so far, but as you know, you’re never fully satisfied. There’s always more work to do,” he says, adding that both mental and physical readiness will be crucial in the upcoming match.

The pressure of playing a home final, with all eyes on both the coach and the team, is something he accepts as part of the game. “In football, pressure is just part of it. The fans have been incredibly supportive from the onset. It’s been a journey, and we’ve felt their presence every step of the way," coach Malgas adds, expressing his gratitude to their supporters who have been there since the start.

The UWC enters the final brimming with confidence, having outplayed the University of Pretoria (UP) in the semi-finals, and they have made it clear that they have their sights set on the trophy. Coach Malgas knows the challenge that awaits and respects the strength of their opponents.

"They are the only side that did a double over UP this season. You will underestimate them at your own peril. They have made some changes since we last played them during the group stages. They are a sleeping giant, hungry to repeat their 2015 success,” he remarks, emphasising the level of focus needed to overcome UWC.

Facing a team as strong as UWC, coach Malgas knows what it will take to secure victory. "They are a very awkward side to play against, and we need to keep our belief and work extra hard. We have to be focused throughout the match because they fight until the end,” he explains, underscoring the importance of resilience and determination in this decisive game.

With the final just days away, coach Malgas’ message to his team is clear: this is their chance to make history. "This is their opportunity to do something special in front of their home supporters. This is what we have been building towards, and now it’s time to deliver.”

As excitement builds among NWU supporters and football fans alike, the Varsity Football final promises to be an intense and thrilling battle. Both teams are determined to lift the trophy, and the stage is set for a memorable showdown at the Mahikeng Stadium.

The NWU Eagles’ fans are ready to back their purple army.

Eagles gear up for crucial final matches in push for Varsity Netball semi-finals

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 14:04:08 +0000

Eagles gear up for crucial final matches in push for Varsity Netball semi-finals

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 09/17/2024 - 16:04

With only two games remaining in the Varsity Netball round-robin stage, the North-West University (NWU) faces a crucial period in their campaign as they fight to secure a place in the semi-finals. Despite a challenging weekend, where NWU suffered a 64-39 loss against the University of Johannesburg (UJ), the team remains focused on their goal.

Coach Elsunet du Plessis emphasises that their semi-final hopes are still alive and that they are working hard to improve and perform under pressure.

“The team has been working very hard over the past few weeks. Although we did not perform as we would have liked to over the weekend, it's not over yet. We will stick to our plan and make minor adjustments.”

The NWU’s next game is against Wits University, a team known for its resilience. Wits have put up tough battles throughout the tournament, and the NWU understands the importance of securing a win in this match to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

“We need to focus on our own game and make sure we stick to what works best for us,” explains coach Elsunet. “Applying a lot of pressure on defence and playing with composure when we are on attack will be key to countering Wits’ strengths.”

The final game of the round-robin stage will be against the Stellenbosch University, who are currently positioned just one spot above the NWU. This match could be decisive in determining the NWU’s fate, making it a must-win for the team. To prepare for such a crucial game, the coaching staff is prioritising mental preparation alongside tactical refinement.

“The team will be doing video analysis on our own game as well as the teams we are facing in the last bumper weekend. We have clear goals, and we just need to execute them to the best of our ability,” adds coach Elsunet.

With determination and a clear plan, the NWU is looking to make the necessary adjustments and push for a strong finish in the final two games, keeping their hopes of a semi-final spot alive.

The NWU team, who is currently in fifth position on the Varsity Netball log, will lock horns with Wits University on 22 September, and on 23 September they will take on Stellenbosch University.

Intercampus Staff Wellness Tournament: A day of fun, fitness and team spirit

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:35:55 +0000

Intercampus Staff Wellness Tournament: A day of fun, fitness and team spirit

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 09/17/2024 - 08:35

The energetic atmosphere of the fourth annual North-West University (NWU) Intercampus Staff Wellness Tournament was unmistakable as staff members from the university’s three campuses gathered on 30 August 2024.

Hosted by the Potchefstroom Campus, the tournament was a much-anticipated event on the NWU calendar, bringing together colleagues from across the university for a day filled with sport and laughter.

Although it was a cold and windy morning, participants geared up to compete in netball and soccer, but the true winners of the day were the friendships and bonds formed through teamwork. Excitement was in the air as everyone cheered each other on, setting the perfect tone for a day that highlighted both the joy of competition and the spirit of unity.

The Mahikeng Campus emerged victorious, taking first place in both netball and soccer. Their stellar performance on the court and field earned them a well-deserved first place, with the Potchefstroom Campus finishing in second and the Vanderbijlpark Campus in third.

One of the main objectives of the Staff Wellness Tournament is to foster relationships among colleagues through healthy competition and physical activity. In doing so, it serves as a reminder of the power of teamwork.

Beyond the competition, the day was filled with hearty laughter, and the distinctive sound of teams supporting one another. Whether it was on the soccer pitch or the netball court, the message was clear: teamwork doesn’t just win matches; it creates memories, promotes well-being, and unites colleagues across campuses.

As the event came to an end, participants left the Potchefstroom Campus feeling re-energised and grateful for the opportunity to engage with one another outside of their usual work environments. The tournament was a beautiful reminder that wellness goes beyond physical health – it's also about connection and unity.

The NWU Intercampus Staff Wellness Tournament continues to be a highlight for staff across the university, and if the success of this year’s event is anything to go by, next year’s tournament promises to be just as exciting.

The NWU Potch staff soccer team

The NWU Vanderbijlpark staff soccer team

The NWU Mahikeng staff soccer team

The NWU Potch staff netball team

The NWU Mahikeng staff netball team

Beyond the competition, the day was filled with hearty laughter

NWU thrashes UFS 4-0 to secure home Varsity Football final

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 10:01:40 +0000

NWU thrashes UFS 4-0 to secure home Varsity Football final

by Phenyo Mokgothu

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 09/13/2024 - 12:01

The North-West University (NWU) delivered a commanding performance in the semi-final clash against the University of the Free State (UFS), defeating them 4-0 at the NWU Mahikeng Stadium to cement their place in the Varsity Football final.

The result was a reversal of fortune after UFS had beaten the NWU in the group stages. This time, the home side dominated from the onset, leaving UFS with little chance of repeating their previous success.

The match started with the NWU taking control of possession and setting the tempo early on. Although the opening 10 minutes did not produce any goals, the NWU was clearly on top, dictating play and putting pressure on the UFS defence. The breakthrough finally came in the 26th minute when the NWU’s Reatlegile Kgosithebe rose high to meet a cross from the right flank, heading the ball into the back of the net. Reatlegile's well-timed header gave the home team a deserved lead after a sustained period of dominance.

Despite UFS's efforts to respond, the NWU continued to press, and the first half ended with the score still 1-0 in favour of the hosts. Both teams showed plenty of energy, but it was the NWU’s ability to capitalise on counterattacks that gave them the upper hand.

The second half saw the NWU continue to impose their will on the game. In the 52nd minute, Lucky Letwaba doubled the NWU’s lead with a stunning free kick. The set piece was awarded after a tough challenge by a UFS defender on an NWU player, and Lucky made no mistake, curling the ball past the goalkeeper to make the score 2-0.

UFS tried to find a way back into the game, but the NWU’s defence remained resolute, with the goalkeeper making several crucial saves to keep the clean sheet intact. As the game progressed, the NWU piled on more pressure, and in the 84th minute, Xolani Masethi added a third goal with a powerful volley from the left flank, leaving the UFS goalkeeper with no chance.

To cap off an excellent team performance, Molemo Kukama scored the NWU's fourth goal in the 90th minute, finishing off a swift counterattack. The final whistle confirmed the NWU's 4-0 victory and their place in the Varsity Football final.

The NWU will take on the University of the Western Cape in the Varsity Football final on 26 September on their home turf.

NWU scorers:
26th minute: Retlegile Kgosithebe
52nd minute: Lucky Letwaba
84th minute: Xolani Masethi
90th minute: Molemo Kukama

FNB Player of the Match: Reatlegile Kgosithebe

Experienced NWU player Lesego Motsepe only have eyes for the ball.

NWU triumphs 3-0 over DUT to qualify for home semi-final

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 10:29:19 +0000

NWU triumphs 3-0 over DUT to qualify for home semi-final

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 09/06/2024 - 12:29

The North-West University (NWU) football team claimed a convincing 3-0 victory against Durban University of Technology (DUT), securing their spot in a home semi-final of the Varsity Football tournament.

From the outset, the NWU dominated the match, applying relentless pressure on DUT with a series of aggressive attacks. Their disciplined defence and fluid teamwork stifled DUT's attempts to gain momentum, while the NWU's precise passes and strategic plays led to a commanding lead.

The first breakthrough came in the 17th minute when Pascual Tivane, wearing jersey number 5, found the back of the net. Tivane capitalised on a well-delivered pass from the flank, tapping the ball in from inside the box. His goal put the NWU ahead 1-0 early in the game, giving them momentum and setting the tone for the rest of the half.

Despite numerous chances created by the NWU, including several dangerous attempts on goal, DUT's defence managed to hold firm, limiting the damage. The NWU dominated possession throughout the first half, but only Tivane's goal separated the two sides at halftime, with the score NWU 1-0 DUT.

The second half saw the NWU continue their aggressive approach, and their efforts paid off once again. In the 54th minute, Reatlegile Kgosithebe rose above the DUT defence to head in a cross from the right flank. The perfectly timed cross was met with precision as Reatlegile’s header doubled the NWU’s lead, making it 2-0. The goal reflected the NWU’s persistence and ability to convert their dominance into tangible results on the scoreboard.

As the game progressed, the NWU kept up the pressure, and in the 72nd minute, Reatlegile Kgosithebe struck again. This time, a well-executed set piece led to the goal. A short corner was played to the left flank, and the ensuing cross found Reatlegile unmarked in the box. He expertly headed the ball into the net for his second goal of the game, extending the NWU’s lead to 3-0.

Despite DUT's attempts to claw back into the game, the NWU maintained control until the final whistle. The 3-0 scoreline reflected the NWU’s dominance in every aspect, as they walked away with a well-deserved victory. The NWU's attacking flair and solid defence ensured their triumph over DUT, leaving them in a strong position going forward.

This win not only showcased the NWU’s superiority on the field, but also solidified their position as strong contenders for the championship. The NWU now prepares to host the semi-final on home turf. The NWU Eagles will play against University of the Free State in the Varsity Football semi-final on 12 September 2024 at 19:15 at the NWU Mahikeng Stadium.

The NWU’s Reatlegile Kgosithebe rises high above the DUT defender to head the third goal into the net.