Sport News

NWU netball gears up for Varsity showdown with eyes on glory by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 08/22/2025 - 14:10

The countdown is almost over, and the opening game of the 2025 Varsity Netball tournament is set for this Sunday, 24 August at the Maties Coetzenburg Indoor Centrein University of Stellenbosch against Varsity College at 15:00.

The North-West University (NWU) team will be stepping onto the court with more than just ambition; they are bringing months of strategising and training into the competition.

NWU head coach Elsunet du Plessis says the team is prepared to rise to the challenge after an intense build-up phase. “Our team is ready and excited for Varsity Netball. The players have put in the hard work, and we are prepared to compete at a high level.”

Training sessions have sharpened both ends of the court, with a particular focus on defensive structures and attacking combinations. “We have worked a lot on our defensive systems, but also our attacking connections to make sure we can transition smoothly down court,” Elsunet notes.

She adds that consistency will be key. “Every quarter matters. We have spoken a lot about keeping composure under pressure and making sure we finish strong.”

Supporters should also keep a close eye on rising talent Christi-Mari Coetzee, who is expected to make a significant impact in this year’s campaign.

The team has set their sights on surpassing last year’s performance, in which they were eliminated in the semi-finals, and believe they have the depth to push further this season.

Players are motivated by the opportunity to inspire future netballers. The squad has spoken enthusiastically about wanting their performance to reflect not just their hard work, but also their pride in representing the NWU on a national stage.

While the tournament promises fierce competition, Elsunet says the team’s goals are clear and grounded. “We want to stay competitive in every match, keep raising the standard of netball within our team, and most importantly, never give up.”

With determination as their foundation and the opening centre pass just days away, the NWU’s netballers are ready to test themselves against the country’s best, bringing their full game to every quarter.

NWU footballers will be counting on home crowd in Tuks clash by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 08/21/2025 - 09:39

Fresh from a 1-0 home victory over the Central University of Technology (CUT), the North-West University’s (NWU’s) footballers are heading into their next clash with confidence but not complacency.

On Thursday, 21 August, the NWU team comes up against one of Varsity Football’s top four sides, the University of Pretoria (Tuks). The NWU will be hosting the match at its Mahikeng stadium.

The NWU players are well aware that the level of competition is escalating, and they are ready for it. Coach Nkululeko Malgas says his team’s game will remain unchanged despite the challenge ahead. “We don’t normally change our ways. We listen to what the match is saying and respond during the match. We know how we play, they know how we play, but it’s up to them how they are going to plan.”

Strong teamwork in the CUT match on 14 August set the scene for the decisive goal by NWU captain Aphelele Sibisi. “Our team is a whole-round side,” coach Malgas notes. “We work more as a group, and goals should come from across the squad.”

Looking ahead to the Tuks, captain Sibisi acknowledges the weight of the match. “We know they are a very strong team with a great reputation, so the pressure is there. But the guys are in a positive mood. We understand the challenges ahead of this fixture, and we are motivated and prepared to give our best on the field to get great results for our fans.”.

The home crowd, he believes, will be crucial. “With our own NWU fans, it’s like having an extra player on the field cheering us on.”

Coach Malgas shares that sentiment but stresses that results will define their progress. “Sometimes, top performance is what pleases the supporters besides the goals scored. I am happy as long as the last column on the log moves.”

As the NWU prepares for one of the season’s toughest assignments, the contest against Tuks offers them a chance to prove they belong among the competition’s elite.

The NWU team will be counting on their home crowd in the upcoming Tuks clash.

Sibisi’s header seals NWU victory over CUT by Phenyo Mokgothu MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 08/15/2025 - 11:22

Thanks to a decisive second-half header from captain Aphelele Sibisi, the North-West University (NWU) secured a hard-fought 1-0 win against Central University of Technology (CUT) in their second round Varsity Football clash on 14 August at the NWU Mahikeng Stadium.

The match kicked off with both sides showing intent. Although it was the NWU who looked more threatening in the opening stages, creating several clear opportunities, the home side could not find the back of the net in the first half. Their closest attempts were thwarted by CUT’s disciplined defence and the safe hands of their goalkeeper.

Tensions ran high in the 26th minute when the NWU’s number 20 jersey, Knowledge Muleya, received a yellow card for a mistimed challenge. Still, the NWU maintained the upper hand, dominating possession and pressing high, but the halftime whistle came with the scoreline locked at 0-0.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 57th minute. A well-delivered cross from the right flank found Sibisi in the box, rising above his marker to nod the ball into the net. The goal sparked celebrations from the home fans and gave the NWU the lead they had been chasing.

CUT pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but the NWU’s defence held firm. The home side managed the game well in the final stages, controlling possession and slowing the tempo when needed. Four minutes of added time were played, but CUT could not break through.

When the referee blew for full time, NWU walked away with all three points, maintaining their momentum in the competition.

The result sees the NWU strengthen its position in the standings, now in position 2, while CUT will be left to reflect on missed opportunities in a tightly contested encounter

NWU goal scorer: Aphelele Sibisi

Player of the match: Momelezi Mngati, NWU

NWU: Ethan Mokwena, Knowledge Muleya, Lucky Letwaba, Aphelele Wandile Sibisi, Lucas Seromo, Pascual Tivane, Thapelo Letsholonyane, Momelezi Mngati, Xalani Masethi, Ranonyane Mmutlane, and Reatlegile Kgosithebe.

CUT: Siseko Faku, Thabang Mokoena, Siyabonga Mzelem, Khotso Mphene, Alwande Sibiya, Polokelo Letlema, Tiisetso Mpholoane, Tshepo Lekoro, Boeletsang Restoration Rar, Mzwakhe Shabalala

Momelezi Mngati was named Player of the Match.

Collective effort makes community sports tournament a win-win for everyone BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 08/15/2025 - 06:31

By Gofaone Motsamai

Soccer balls rolled, whistles blew and chess pieces moved quietly as learners from five schools gathered at Maano Secondary School in Mmasutlhe Village for a day of sports organised by the North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus Sports Department.

The community sports tournament on Friday, 25 July 2025, brought together Maano Secondary School, Sejankabo Secondary School, Mococoe Secondary School, Mailakgang Primary School and Mogakolodi School. The learners participated in soccer, netball, volleyball and chess.

At the end of the day, the winning teams in each sporting code received medals, trophies and kits.

“This event was not just about competition, it was about unity, development and empowering our youth through sport,” says Thabo Raborifi from the Sports Department.

He adds that sport is a tool for building values and forming partnerships with the broader community. “This tournament forms part of our broader mission at the Mahikeng Campus to engage meaningfully with the community and to use sport as a tool for education, inclusion and transformation.”

As part of the university’s outreach, Maano Secondary School, host of the event, received a donation of sports equipment.

“We are especially grateful to the school for hosting us so warmly and providing their facilities for this initiative,” says Thabo.

The event relied on student volunteers from the NWU and support from educators and school staff. Thabo acknowledged the collective effort that made the day possible. “A heartfelt thank you goes to our organising team, our student volunteers, educators and everyone who made this outreach possible.”

Learners and educators from participating schools gather for a group photo during the community sports tournament at Maano Secondary School.

NWU leaves it late to snatch vital point in Varsity Football opener by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/12/2025 - 09:11

The North-West University (NWU) left it until the 89th minute to earn a valuable away draw against the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in the opening round of the 2025 Varsity Football season.

Playing under chilly skies in front of a packed UJ Stadium on 7 August 2025, the home side struck early. UJ’s Thabo Moshikere tapped in from close range after a well-placed free kick was headed into his path by Yasidu Lifa. The early goal gave UJ the momentum as they went into halftime leading 1-0.

Despite the early setback, the NWU remained composed and began to create pressure of their own. Their closest chance of scoring in the first half was denied by UJ goalkeeper Lungelo Sithole, who reacted well to a close-range header. The only booking of the match went to the NWU’s Thapelo Letsholonyane following a tough challenge in midfield.

The second half saw end-to-end action as both teams sought to take control. The NWU coaching staff made tactical substitutions, which brought renewed energy and purpose to their attack.

That persistence paid off just before the final whistle when substitute Molemo Kukama slotted in the equaliser, capitalising on a defensive lapse, to bring the match level at 1-1.

“We knew it would be tough away from home, but I am proud of how the boys kept believing,” said NWU head coach Nkululeko Malgas after the match. “The goal came late, but the work to earn it started from the first minute. It is an important point and a strong foundation for the rest of the campaign.”

The draw means the NWU starts the season with a point on the road and valuable momentum heading into their next fixture.

The NWU’s Xolani Masethi in action.

Mandela Day Walk/Run initiative brings smiles, steps and support by Belinda Bantham BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/05/2025 - 08:43

In true Mandela Day spirit, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Potchefstroom Campus turned up the energy and heart rate (?) on 18 July with a vibrant and meaningful walk around the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds.

The event, which invited staff and students to complete either a 2,25 km lap or a double loop, was a collaborative effort between the Staff Sports Club, the Potchefstroom Students’ Campus Council (SCC) sport portfolio and the Centre for Health and Human Performance (CHHP). More than just a wellness initiative, the walk/run honoured Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy of service and giving back.

Participants arrived not only ready to move but also to make a difference. Many brought along donations of toiletries and non-perishable food items, which were collected and distributed to support NWU students in need — a gesture that perfectly captured the Mandela Day ethos of action and compassion.

Adding a festive flair to the morning was a lucky draw of spot prizes, generously sponsored by various organisations. From small tokens to standout giveaways, every participant walked away feeling like a winner. The prizes brought an extra sparkle to the day, turning a charitable act into a celebration of unity and wellness.

This initiative served as a heartening reminder that small steps, shared goals, and collective goodwill can create a lasting impact, not just in physical distance covered, but in the strength of community spirit fostered.

The organisers extend sincere gratitude to all who helped make the event a success. Special thanks go to:

• Cobbie Greef – Voorhuis Catering Hall
• Prof Thabo Makhalemele – school director, Faculty of Education
• Luisa Njamba – 4DHealth and BestMed

We also gratefully acknowledge the invaluable contributions of:

• Cor Leijenaar – CHHP
•  Nombulelo Mulunga – Career Centre
• Florrie Makaku – Faculty of Education: Sponsorship Coordination

And a heartfelt thank you to the volunteers from the CHHP, Staff Sports Club, and SCC: Sports, whose efforts and enthusiasm brought this initiative to life.

NWU set for Varsity Football challenge with a strong core squad and renewed focus by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/05/2025 - 08:10

With the 2025 Varsity Football tournament set to kick off on 7 August, the men’s team from North-West University (NWU) say they are mentally and physically prepared for another competitive campaign.

Head coach of the NWU Soccer Institute, Nkululeko Malgas, says the team is entering the season with a solid foundation and the benefit of experience. “They are in the right mental space, having retained almost 70% of the players from the 2024 season. They know exactly what is at stake,” he says.

As part of their preparations, the team competed in the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Football Club Championships, where they reached the quarter-finals.

“I think we did well playing in the championships and losing in the quarter-finals against UP Tuks on penalties,” says Nkululeko. “We came back to host the North West USSA Inter-Varsity Cup, and by winning it, that served as a good morale booster. But nothing comes close to Varsity Football because you can’t rehearse that crowd atmosphere and Varsity Football fever buzz.”

The NWU finished as runners-up in the 2024 tournament, and Nkululeko believes last years’ experience has shaped the team’s approach for the new season. “We treated each game as if it was a final. It will be more difficult this year with a complete Gauteng ‘big four’,” he says, referring to the return of the University of Johannesburg and Wits and the continued participation of UP Tuks and the Tshwane University of Technology.

Asked about standout players to watch this season, Nkululeko emphasises the team’s unity over individual brilliance. “It’s very difficult to single out any particular player, as we believe in collective effort.”

With the return of strong competition and the high expectations that follow last year’s campaign, the NWU will be looking to build on their consistency and cohesion as they aim to go one step further in 2025.

NWU head coach Nkululeko Malgas

Boxing official graduates with a master’s degree by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/05/2025 - 08:09

Lemogang Moote, secretary general of the South African National Boxing Organisation (SANABO) in the North West, has added another accomplishment to her growing list of achievements by graduating with an MSc degree in agricultural economics from the North-West University (NWU).

Lemogang, who is also a lecturer at Taung Agricultural College, joined the boxing fraternity at the NWU in 2016 after being recruited by the late Onalenna Tsae, renowned boxing coach and administrator. Since then, she has grown into one of the most recognised leaders in the sporting circles in the province.

“The sport has played a significant role in shaping my leadership abilities and teaching me discipline,” says Lemogang.

Her other academic qualifications are a BSc in agricultural economics (with distinction) and a postgraduate certificate in education in the further education and training and senior phase.

Lemogang has also held several leadership positions within the NWU and the boxing fraternity. She served as NWU Boxing Club chairperson in 2019 and NWU All Sports Council public relations officer from 2019 to 2020, and currently serves as SANABO North West secretary general. She has also been the secretary of the SANABO Athletes Commission since 2021.

“Balancing academics, sport and leadership was not easy, but I have always been passionate about both agriculture and boxing. Education gave me structure, and boxing gave me the strength to stay the course.”

Her accolades include being named the NWU Mahikeng Campus Best Performing First-Year Student in 2016, NWU Sportswoman of the Year in 2017, North West Provincial Sports Newcomer of the Year in 2017, and Sportswoman of the Year in 2019.

“I believe in using every platform I have to grow, and I hope my story shows that with commitment, it is possible to pursue excellence in more than one field,” she says.

 Lemogang Moote (in red) during her boxing days.

Mahikeng Campus dancers claim USSA title again by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 07/17/2025 - 09:57

They hardly put a foot wrong. With flair and dazzling dance performances, the Dance Sport team of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus has successfully defended their title as University Sports South Africa (USSA) Dance Sport champions.

The NWU team of 20 athletes competed against dancers from 13 South African universities in a tournament hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville Campus in Durban from 28 June to 3 July.

They danced across multiple categories including ballroom, Latin, team formation, American show dance and team match. Every athlete progressed to the finals in their respective sections, accumulating a total of 93 points, enough to secure the overall victory.

Head coach and participant Prince Motaung says tight schedules and limited resources marked the team’s preparation. “This year has been extremely challenging, with exams in between training sessions, back-to-back competitions and no proper venue to rehearse,” he said after the tournament. “However, the team still came out on top, and they defended the title with honour.”

The NWU competed in the beginner and adult championship categories, collecting podium points that reinforced their dominance in the national university dance circuit.

“Their performance in the final stages of the tournament demonstrated consistency and coordination, particularly in the team sections where group synchronisation is crucial,” says Prince, who is also the current vice-chairperson of USSA Dance Sport NUSA.

Having won the championships in 2024 and 2025, the Mahikeng team is already preparing for the next competition cycle – while at the same time ensuring they do justice to their academics.

Coaching dreams take shape by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/08/2025 - 08:15

On the fields where they once chased goals, a new group in Mahikeng is now learning how to shape them. The North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute hosted the South African Football Association (SAFA) D Licence coaching course from 30 June to 6 July 2025, training aspiring coaches in the principles that guide youth and amateur football development.

The SAFA D Licence is the foundational qualification in South African football coaching. It equips participants with tactical understanding, coaching methodology and player development techniques. The course included both theoretical and practical sessions designed to build coaching capacity at grassroots level.

Coach Nkululeko Malgas from the NWU Soccer Institute says hosting the course is a major step for the region. “It is huge for football development in our institution and the community at large. As you saw, SAFA has agreed to regulate coaching qualifications. For anyone to work as coach, they must acquire a certain coaching licence for that particular league. When we host the training here, we are assisting in fast-tracking that process,” he says.

He adds that this requirement will soon apply to all coaches involved in the university’s internal football structures. “In the future, for any coach to be involved in the NWU Football Residence League, they should have a SAFA D Licence.”

The course is led by experienced instructors Gideon Noge and Edwin Johannes. “We have some of the highest qualified coaching instructors in North West. SAFA made it a point that in each of their 52 regions across the country, there should be a minimum of five qualified coaching instructors,” says coach Malgas.

A total of 30 aspiring coaches are participating, including community coaches and students from the NWU's Human Movement Science programme. “It is of great importance to them, as it serves as the portfolio of evidence in their field. They are now able to align what they are currently studying together with what the course entails,” says coach Malgas.

The course covers a range of practical skills and knowledge areas. “Some of the skills they acquired here include how to work with children aged six to 11 years, organising fun games, as there are no tactics and fitness in those age groups, and how to improvise in terms of the facilities available. They will also learn about festival organisation,” he adds.

This initiative is part of the ongoing partnership of the NWU Soccer Institute with the SAFA to raise coaching standards and increase access to formal training in the region.

From left are David Molwantwa, president of SAFA Ngaka Modiri Molema and chairperson of SAFA North West, and Edwin Johannes and Gideon Noge, CAF coach instructors.

These coaches attended the SAFA D Licence coaching course hosted by the NWU Soccer Institute.

Vanderbijlpark bodybuilding and CrossFit teams triumph at USSA 2025 by Zenoyise John BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/07/2025 - 10:10

For years, the bodybuilding team of the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) has been a consistent force, never dropping out of the top three at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Bodybuilding Championships.

2025 was no different, as they once again showcased their class at the USSA Bodybuilding and CrossFit Championships hosted by the Durban University of Technology in Pietermaritzburg on 28 June.

Facing fierce competition from nine other universities, the NWU returned home with an impressive haul: five trophies in different categories, two overall trophies, and six medals from top six category placings.

“This is one of the strongest squads we have ever had,” says coach Raphael Ntumba. “From day one, they showed the hunger to push beyond their limits – and it paid off.”

The bodybuilding team was placed second overall, proving their disciplined commitment to intensive training and nutrition regimens ranging from four to eight weeks based on each athlete’s body composition. In total, they secured five first-place finishes plus two overall titles, cementing their place among the best on the day.

Notable results included:

· Mzamani Mabasa: 1st place Senior Men under 75 kg

· Thapelo Leputu: 1st place and overall winner Senior Men over 175 cm (Men’s Physique)

· Caley van der Bank: 1st place and overall winner Wellness under 166 cm

· Palesa Maselo: 1st place Ladies Body Fitness

· Cindy Dube: 1st place Ladies Wellness over 166 cm

· Rochelle de Klerk: 2nd place Ladies Bikini

· Busisiwe Maphumulo: 3rd place Ladies Bikini over 163 cm

· Shari Igwe: 3rd place Body Fitness

· Nkateko Ngobeni: 4th place Body Fitness

· Conrad Johan Esterhuyse: 4th place Senior Men Classic Physique One lineup

· Mpho Monyela: 6th place Ladies Beach Bikini under 163 cm

· Dumisani Kokozela: 6th place Senior Men under 80 kg

· Wethu Mboweni: 5th place Senior Men under 80 kg

· Mojalefa Moloi: 6th place Senior Men over 80 kg

· Francis Motsileng: 6th place Men’s Physique under 175 cm

“Bringing home five trophies plus two overall trophies is no small feat,” adds coach Ntumba. “Every single athlete who stepped on stage was a winner in my eyes. Whether you took gold or sixth place, you made us proud.”

Of the 20 athletes chosen to represent USSA at the upcoming National Championships in Durban this September, five hail from the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus:

1. Caley van der Bank

2. Rochelle de Klerk

3. Palesa Maselo

4. Thapelo Leputu

5. Mzamani Mabasa

“That is a huge honour,” says coach Ntumba. “It shows the depth of talent and the culture we have built here.”

Meanwhile, the Vanderbijlpark Campus CrossFit team, represented by Brian Kubuya, Lethloronoholo Motaung and Kabelo Earl Mahange, put on a remarkable show of teamwork and grit to claim an excellent third place finish.

“CrossFit is about resilience and unity. Our CrossFit team delivered on both fronts, and they left everything out there on the floor,” says coach Ntumba.

As the National Championships in September draw closer, the athletes remain laser-focused on maintaining their momentum.

“Now it is about keeping that momentum, polishing the details, and believing in ourselves,” coach Ntumba concludes.

Coach Raphael Ntumba says he is proud of the team.

NWU student helps Springboks claim The Rugby Africa Sevens title by Steve Maphakathe BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/04/2025 - 09:48

For Joubert Schoeman, a BCom Honours in Management Accounting student at the North-West University (NWU), representing South Africa on the global stage was not just a dream, but a goal he pursued with passion. His determination recently paid off when he helped the Springbok Sevens ‘A’ team win the Rugby Africa Sevens Cup in Mauritius.

Demonstrating remarkable resilience, the Springbok Sevens 'A' team triumphed over Madagascar in the thrilling 26-12 Rugby Africa Sevens tournament final, earning the title of continental champions. Held over two action-packed days at the Labourdonnais Sports Club in Mauritius on 21 and 22 June, the tournament brought together Africa’s finest. The South Africans cruised through the pool stages, securing victories over Nigeria, Zambia and Burkina Faso.

In the semi-finals, the Blitz Boks narrowly beat the Zimbabwe Cheetahs 19-12, while Madagascar comfortably beat Kenya, setting up a tense final between two strong teams.

Joubert Schoeman reflects on his experience:

What was the preparation like heading off to Mauritius?

“While we were training in Stellenbosch, our main focus was on two things: keeping things simple and making sure everyone was clear on their role. Once we had that nailed down, it was just about sticking to the plan and getting the basics right,” Schoeman explains.

How did the team manage the intensity and tight schedule over the weekend?

“After each game, we regrouped, reset and made sure we were mentally ready for the next one.”

How did the team adapt to the hot weather in Mauritius and the physicality of the competition?

“We had to stay hydrated due to the hot and humid climate. From the outset, we focused on sticking to our structure, which meant we didn’t have to work harder than necessary.”

What stood out the most for you?

“There were two moments that stood out for me. The first was during the signing session – just seeing children and thinking back to when I was younger and used to look up to players, dreaming of representing my country one day. The second was standing and singing our national anthem while representing South Africa, was a proud experience.”

What was going through your mind in the final?

“I was nervous, but once the whistle blew, I focused on my job and stayed in the moment.”

What does winning the Rugby Africa Sevens Cup mean to you?

“It means a huge deal for me. It is a feeling I shall never forget. Since we didn’t win the tournament last year, winning it this year made it even more special. Later, the team realised that it had been years since South Africa last won an Africa Cup. This made the victory even sweeter.”

How do you see your experience feeding into your future rugby aspirations?

“Playing for the Blitz Boks has always been a childhood dream of mine. I would love to be included in their training squad,” he says. “But I believe God has a plan for me, whether that’s playing rugby or doing something else.”

Do you have any messages you would like to share with your family, coaches, supporters, or peers?

“I would like to thank my family and friends for their support and for always being there for me. A big thank you to the coaching staff at NWU. Lastly, I would like to thank Dr Pieter van den Berg, who has played a significant role in my career. I have had the privilege of playing Sevens under him for the past two years.”

Joubert Schoeman says he was laser-focused throughout the tournament.