Sport News

NWU’s Varsity Football semi-final quest continues against DUT BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 09/11/2025 - 10:06

By Phenyo Mokgothu and Mzwandile Ndlovu

Momentum is building, the stakes are high. After securing a commanding 1-0 victory over Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) at Mahikeng, the North-West University (NWU) football team are looking to clinch a place in the semi-final.

On Thursday, 11 September, the NWU will take on Durban University of Technology (DUT) in a crucial match at Harry Gwala stadium in Pietermaritzburg.

Their last win came at the right time, boosting the team’s confidence and momentum as they head into their last important games of the competition. With momentum on their side, coach Nkululenko Malgas will aim to keep confidence high and collect maximum points.

“It’s a win that came at the right time,” he says, referring to the victory against TUT on Thursday, 4 September. I credit it all to the character the boys showed on the day – now we need to build on it.”

With the semi-final spot up for grabs, coach Nkululenko faces intense scrutiny but is confident in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion.

“For us being runners-up last year, expectations have always been there. The last two fixtures are very important, as the results give ideas and shape the next round of knockouts. It’s currently very tight because we haven’t won two to three matches consecutively in Varsity Football 2025.”

The NWU’s goal drought has been a concern, with the team managing only three goals in five matches, while keeping three clean sheets and conceding two goals.

As they head into the final stretch, every goal difference counts, and coach Nkululenko acknowledges the team’s struggle to convert opportunity into points. “That’s the sad part about football; you will never be sure because the execution depends on the moment. If you were to ask me what I need more between goals and points, I would take the latter.”

Looking ahead to the clash against DUT, he is aware that DUT’s unpredictability could catch the NWU players off guard. Despite being rock bottom, DUT has shown signs of improvement and might pose a significant threat in their final home match.

“DUT will be the most difficult opponent because they have been building ever since match day one. I wish we could have played them earlier. If you have been following them, you will know they have been slowly improving as their last match against the University of Johannesburg showed.”

That said, the NWU team are well-prepared, fit and ready to fight fire with fire – and hopefully secure their third consecutive semi-finals

Khumoetsile Van Schalkwyk. Man of the match against TUT   Momelezi Mngati

Joubert Schoeman’s sevens dream becomes a reality by Steve Maphakathe BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 09/08/2025 - 17:09

Joubert Schoeman has achieved a lifelong dream by signing his official Springbok Sevens contract. He went from being a player for the North-West University (NWU) Eagles to becoming a national rugby star.

Schoeman, a BCom Honours student in Management Accounting, was a key player in the Springbok Sevens "A" side that won the prestigious Rugby Africa Sevens Cup in Mauritius, where he showcased his exceptional sporting prowess on the pitch.

Donning the green and gold jersey represents more than just a sporting accomplishment; it is a realisation of a lifelong dream, despite all the challenges encountered.

“This is a dream I have held on to and awaited for quite some time. It truly holds significant value for me and represents a crucial step forward towards a greater ambition,” Schoeman remarked, saying this accomplishment is laying the foundation for a more rewarding international career.

His performance in Mauritius showed not only his amazing talent but also his determination, which he developed through the NWU Eagles Rugby programme.

The groundwork of excellence

Schoeman’s success is closely linked to the development programmes at the NWU, where he refined his skills under the expert guidance of coach Dr Pieter van den Berg, senior lecturer and programme leader at PhASRec in the Human Movement Sciences department.

His switch from winger to hooker with the Eagles changed the course of his career and led to his selection for the national team.

“I have enjoyed sevens from the start and have been fortunate to work in both the 15s and 7s departments of the NWU Eagles,” Schoeman acknowledged. “The relationship with the coaching staff helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses to be able to know what type of player I wanted to become.”

This strategic shift, carefully crafted through discussions with Dr Van den Berg, showcases the innovative thinking that places the NWU as one of the country’s primary player factories. Schoeman's ability to adapt shows that he is flexible and willing to accept change for the good of the team.

Humble and dedicated to growth

His plan for dealing with the greater level of competition shows his maturity. “I would like to learn all that I can from senior players to improve myself and learn exactly the standard required to become a Springbok,” Schoeman stated, expressing hunger for continuous improvement.

His journey is an inspiration for young athletes across the country who want to follow in his footsteps. Schoeman’s advice for student-athletes echoes the principles that shaped his journey.

“Your body and your mind are two of the greatest gifts, so take care of them.”

By stating his hopes for the future with the words "God has a plan for me," Schoeman highlights the grounded perspective that has helped him succeed throughout his journey.

Joubert Schoeman says he wants to contribute to the team and work well with his teammates.

Goalkeeper coach instils mentality of success by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 09/03/2025 - 10:54

Consistency, hard work, teamwork and mental strength are the qualities that make a football team stand out, says Ludwe Mpakumpaku, goalkeeper coach of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Varsity Football team.

Ludwe knows what it means to achieve the extraordinary. As former captain of TS Galaxy, he led his side to the historic 2019 Nedbank Cup victory over Kaizer Chiefs, a result that stunned the South African football community.

Reflecting on that achievement, he believes it shaped the way he approaches coaching. “Playing in a sold-out World Cup stadium with 80% of supporters backing the opposing team requires an enormous amount of mental strength and focus. I try to instil in our goalkeepers the ability to focus on the prize no matter the odds against you.”

His professional background also shapes his philosophy about growth and resilience. “The lessons I instil from a professional football setup are clear: coachable players are forever growing their understanding of the game and what is required by the coach. You will never win all the games, but the ability to bounce back after a defeat starts on the training field with the attitude of a winner and the bravery of a warrior.”

Now on the training ground in Mahikeng, Ludwe’s focus is on equipping student-athletes with the mindset and skills to perform consistently. “Winning a major trophy was a career highlight, but what really matters is passing on the lessons. I try to instil a mindset of consistency, hard work and teamwork in our Varsity Football players because those qualities make the difference at any level.”

He sees Varsity Football as a stage that mirrors the pressures of the professional game. “The pressures are different, but the principles are the same. At professional level, you play in front of thousands and represent a brand. At Varsity Football, you carry the pride of your university. Both require preparation, focus and mental strength.”

Ludwe says he always reminds the players that he once stood where they are now, dreaming of making it big. “If they put in the effort, stay disciplined and believe in themselves, they can achieve great things.”

NWU goalkeeper coach Ludwe Mpakumpaku

Eagles soar past Maties in Varsity Netball thriller BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 09/03/2025 - 07:53

By Phenyo Mokgothu and Ntokozo Maseko

The North-West University (NWU) Eagles battled hard to secure a 55-41 victory over Maties in a tightly contested Varsity Netball clash.

The first quarter of the match set the tone for a physical encounter as both sides pushed to establish dominance. The NWU showed composure in front of goal and edged ahead 13-9 by the end of the quarter.

Momentum shifted in the second quarter as the Eagles’ intensity dropped, and their errors allowed the Stellenbosch University side to claw their way back. With the NWU crowd’s energy dipping, the Eagles struggled to convert opportunities, but they still carried a 22-16 lead into halftime.

The third quarter brought renewed energy, with both teams pressing for control. The NWU tightened their attacking play and made key defensive stops to maintain a healthy advantage. By the end of the quarter, the scoreboard read 41-29 in favour of the Eagles.

In the final quarter, the NWU rose to the occasion, shaking off earlier nerves and finishing the match with determination. Maties threatened a late comeback that kept the crowd on edge, but the Eagles’ discipline and resilience saw them over the line.

The 55-41 result secured an important win for the NWU, who showed both grit and composure in a match full of momentum swings.

NWU coach Elsunet du Plessis reflected on the victory: “I am pleased about the fact that every player contributed and did their job, they played as a team and celebrated one another.” On how her players managed to maintain momentum throughout the clash, she added: “The players maintained momentum by sticking to the game plan and lifting the defensive intensity whenever Maties attempted to close the gap.” Looking ahead, Elsunet said: “This result is a valuable step forward in the Varsity Netball campaign. It not only boosts confidence but also reinforces the team’s ability to execute under pressure.”

Quarter scores: 13-09|22-16|41-29|56-34

Player of the match: Vivian Venancio (NWU)

Kick-offs to final whistles: NWU Staff Wellness games deliver non-stop action by Belinda Bantham RONEL ROSCHER Tue, 08/26/2025 - 16:10

There is always something special about seeing colleagues outside the boardroom, offices and lecture halls while swapping shoes for sneakers with whistles blowing instead of the ping of an incoming email.

On 15 August 2025, staff members from across all three campuses of the North-West University (NWU) came together for the annual Staff Wellness Tournament.

The tournament kicked off with the Potchefstroom and Mahikeng soccer teams stepping onto the field, all eyes fixed on the opening game. Excitement rippled through the crowd, and colleagues cheered from the sidelines. It set the tone for a day filled with energy, sport and togetherness.

Some were fierce competitors, others were just there for the joy of being active and cheering on their teammates, but together they turned the day into something memorable. Goals were cheered like finals and celebrated in true World Cup style while netball passes flew with precision and shots kept the scoreboards ticking.

It did not matter whether you were a fitness fanatic or a casual player; every staff member played their part in proving that health and sport go hand in hand.

Wellness specialist Kehumile Katametsi emphasised that the games are not only about keeping fit, but also about strengthening the bond between staff from Mahikeng, Potchefstroom and Vanderbijlpark. “It’s important that we look after our health, but also that we celebrate the connection between campuses. These tournaments show that wellness is about more than exercise; it’s about coming together, fun, and being part of something bigger,” she said.

In soccer, Vanderbijlpark Campus claimed first place, followed by Mahikeng in second and Potchefstroom in third. Although all three teams finished with equal points, the standings were ultimately decided on goal difference. In netball, Mahikeng Campus secured the top spot, with Potchefstroom taking second place.

The day ended with prayer; an appropriate conclusion to a tournament that was as much about spirit as it was about sport. And in the end, the true winner of the day was sportsmanship.

Next year, the Wellness games will take place at the Vanderbijlpark Campus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eagles dominate Varsity College in Varsity Netball opener by Steve Maphakathe MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 08/25/2025 - 10:53

In their 2025 Varsity Netball campaign opener, the North-West University (NWU) Eagles displayed confidence and teamwork in their convincing 63-29 victory against Varsity College at the Maties Coetzenburg Indoor Centre in Stellenbosch on Sunday, 24 August.

The Eagles dominated from the outset, taking the lead in the first quarter and maintaining their momentum throughout the match. By the end of the second quarter, they were leading 32-14, showcasing a stellar team performance.

Coach Elsunet du Plessis commended her team’s performance. “I am pleased with the performance and that we had the opportunity to get all 12 players on the court.  There are still areas we can refine, but overall, I am proud of the collective effort and the unity the players showed on the court.”

Rookie Christi-Mari Coetzee delivered an impressive debut performance and was named the FNB player of the match.

“As a team, we will continue to perform to the best of our ability,” she said after receiving her award.

Coetzee was one of several debutants, including Jessica Matjiu, Jaime Matfield, Jeané Visser and Vivian Venancio, who made their first Varsity Netball appearances.

The Eagles are hoping to build on this win and enjoy a successful season.

The NWU Eagles Varsity Netball Squad for 2025 is as follows: Sunel Smit, Andrya Joubert, Jaime Matfield, Jade Egwatu, Mia van den Berg, Tlotlang Mokomela, Jessica Matjiu, Amori Matthee, Johanné Meyer, Jomari Lübbe, Casey Davids, Cellonika van den Berg, Rayvoné Leander, Karla du Preez, Christi-Mari Coetzee, Martiné Jordaan, Vivian Venancio, Liané van Lochem, Jeané Visser and Amia Roux.

FNB Player of the Match Christi-Mari Coetzee 

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 by Gofaone Motsamai BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 08/15/2025 - 06:31

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.