Six-try FNB Wits hand FNB UWC chastening opening day defeat

4 February 2020 - Lyndon Julius

A rock-solid first half performance lead to FNB Wits outclassing FNB UWC side, 38-10, in Bellville on Monday in the opening round of the 2020 FNB Varsity Cup

Wits University showed a lot of character in trying conditions to beat the University of the Western Cape 38 -10 in their opening Varsity Cup fixture on Monday night. The charismatic flanker Constant Beckerling was named the Players that Rocks and scored one of Wits’ five tries scored by their pack.

Two quick tries in the opening 20 minutes lead to the visitors jumpiing to a 14-3 lead which included tries from Travis Gordon and captain Justin Brandon. Kurt Webster was in fine form off the tee, the flyhalf converted both opening tries.

Former UWC pivot Aidynn Cupido was also in top form for his new team, playing in a new-look inside centre position frome where made telling runs breaking the advantage line regularly. An error-ridden passage of play from UWC allowed the visitors to remain ahead even in times when the home side were devastating on attack. Last season's Wits captain, Constant Beckerling went over for the visiting team's third try and established a 21-10 halftime lead for the visitors from Johannesburg. 

Unsurprisingly, Cupido was at the centre (pun intended) of the Wits attacking plan, the midfielder lead the visiting side's attack and was influential in every single FNB Wits try. 

Despite not being able to break the last line of defence, Wits were relentless on attack and opted for the same attacking pattern to which UWC stepped up brilliantly. 

Brandon added his second try of the match when he was rewarded following a consistent passage of play which saw Wits seal the game with just over ten minutes left in the match. Webster, though, missed the conversion. 

Wits added insult to injury when they added two late tries via replacement front rower Reynardt Cronje and right winger Kwanele Ngema. Webster managing to convert the Ngema try. 

Awards
FNB Player That Rocks: Constant Beckerling
Steers Kinging Moment: Aidynn Cupido

Scorers
FNB UWC (10) 10
Try: Lundi Msenge
Conversion: Keagan Fortune
Penalty: Keagan Fortune

FNB Wits (21) 38
Tries: Travis Gordon, Justin Brandon 2, Constant Beckerling, Reynardt Cronje, Kwanele Ngema
Conversions: Kurt Webster 4

Teams
FNB UWC: 15 Gilroy Philander, 14 Peter Williams, 13 Darren Jaftha, 12 Lyle Hendricks, 11 Lundi Msenge, 10 Keagan Fortune, 9 Clayton Daniels, 8 Adrian Paarwater, 7 Jaen-Louis de Lange, 6 Tinotenda Mavesere, 5 Curtly Thomas, 4 Matthew le Roux, 3 Justin Theys, 2 Jacques van Zyl (captain), 1 Luvo Bazi
Replacements: 16 Jason Alexander, 17 Dandré Degenaar, 18 Pieter-Steyl Swanepoel, 19 Godfrey Muzanargwo, 20 Branden de Kock, 21 Tiaan Henecke, 22 Hendrik Carstens, 23 Keon Links
Coach: Lionel Langenhoven

FNB Wits: 15 Daniel Kasende, 14 Kwanele Ngema, 13 Sicelo Champion, 12 Aidynn Cupido, 11 Lwazi Monakali, 10 Kurt Webster, 9 Runaldo Pedro, 8 Travis Gordon, 7 Phillip Krause, 6 Constant Beckerling, 5 Franz Gerber, 4 Kevin du Randt, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Justin Brandon (captain), 1 Cornelius Greeff
Replacements: 16 Mulalo Sadiki, 17 Jason Cloete, 18 Reynard Cronjé, 19 Emmanuel Tshituka, 20 Cal Smid, 21 Hlumelo Ndudula, 22 Christian Humphries, 23 Matt MacDonald
Coach: Hugo van As

JM Busha 54 sailing team conquers more than 7000km to Rio

7 February 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits’ JM Busha 54 sailing team took to the open waters for the year’s Cape2Rio Yacht Race which began on 4 January from the Port of Cape Town.

Yachters embarked on a monstrous 4053.9 nautical miles trek – that is a  7 507.8km journey which ended at the seaside city of Rio in Brazil on 28 January, 23 days and 16 hours since the team completed the first kilometre. JM Busha 54 finished in third position behind the Love Water and Maserati Multi 70 yacht teams, winning the class one handicap and class one line honours.

The team also got the prize for the First Youth, with the German entry Haspa Hamburg, coming in fourth in the overall finishing. Describing the race, yacht co-skipper on the JM Busha-branded Ciao Bella, Ryan Robinson summed up the whole experience as “absolutely amazing” and as “the adventure of a lifetime”. Alongside him was his sister and co-skipper Michaela Robinson, while Wits Yacht Club members Tawanda Chikasha, Emma Clark, Jonathan Ham and Hearn Johnson completed the crew.

“There were some amazing experiences,” said Robinson. “From the hundreds of whales [along the way] to seeing land for the first time in days. But for me, the best one was the day after we managed to get out of Cyclone Kurumi (a tropical storm we had to race through on our race). There is nothing quite like the experience of conquering something that immense… The camaraderie, hard work and teamwork displayed by my team is something I will never forget.”

With so many lessons learnt and any of a number of things which stand as the highlight of the event, Robinson decidedly pointed to the teamwork as the glue that bound the team’s singular goal all throughout the gruelling race. “Individuals are much stronger when working as a team. It's a cliché from the Rugby World Cup last year. But ultimately, it's true – people are #strongertogether,” Robinson said.

“Other lessons I learnt was how far a person is actually able to push themselves. You learn what the human body is capable of, which ranged from never getting more than four hours of sleep at a time, to physically exerting yourself to the point of utter exhaustion.”

He added: “The last lesson would be that it's not over, until it is over. We had a real disadvantage at the start of the race and got caught in a weather system with absolutely no wind. We stayed there for a couple of days. This meant we were at a huge disadvantage on day two of a 24-day race. We never gave up though. And by the end of it – through sheer perseverance – we managed to claw our way back into a respectable position.”

When asked what some of the biggest lessons were for his crew, Robinson said the experience in its entirety will not only apply to new races, but be applied to both sailing and everyone else’s day-to-day lives. Encouragingly for new and prospective yachters, he said to “make it happen” for yourself. “Sometimes, you need to push your own envelope and not let society dictate what is achievable.

“We had people on the boat achieving amazing things. Michaela was the youngest skipper to ever complete this race. Tawanda was the first black Zimbabwean to ever sail across the Atlantic Ocean. Had they listened to the naysayers, they might never have achieved these amazing goals,” he said.

Bragging rights in the Jo'burg Derby to hosts FNB Wits

11 February 2020 - Sifiso Nyawo

Bragging rights in the Jo'burg Derby went to hosts FNB Wits for the first time in FNB Varsity Cup history, but only just after a 7-6 win over FNB UJ.

Smiling Assassins’ duo make junior SA World Cup Qualifiers side

17 February 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The Wits Ladies FC pair of Shakeerah Jacobs and Robyn Coetzee have once again been selected for the SA U/20 football team.

The Wits Ladies FC pair of Shakeerah Jacobs and Robyn Coetzee have it all to celebrate following their latest selection to the South Africa U-20 national side, to do battle against Botswana in the upcoming 2020 African U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers’ 1st and 2nd legs scheduled between 20 to 22 and 27 to 29 March.

Coetzee, who has been part of the U-20 team since the age of 17, admitted that the gushing feeling which she was met by as she strode out in the national junior colours the first time, remains punctuated. The 19-year-old looks forward to the next chapter in her burgeoning career with glee, as one of the now-senior players in the current side.

“I'm among the oldest in the team but I am always willing to learn, even from the young ones, as they sometimes have more experience,” said Coetzee. “We learn from one another and it warms my heart and the hearts of my family members and friends that [I have another opportunity] to be part of the team.”

A BA General student, Coetzee was part of the South Africa team which was beaten by Nigeria in the final round of qualifiers in 2018, subsequently suffering the heartbreak of the dashed hopes of a nation ailing to book a spot to the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup held in France that year. This time, she hopes her experience will go a long in aiding the junior national side’s cause for eventual World Cup qualification.

“I will work hard to remain in the starting 11. My coach (former Banyana Banyana player Nthabeleng Modiko) always reminds us that selection is never permanent and that hard work, effort and dedication all go a long way!” added a hopeful Coetzee.

Her teammate and the Smiling Assassins’ main weapon, Jacobs, beamed excitedly at the prospect of ploughing further to the success of Basetsana. “I want to contribute to the team with goals this next round – at least three. I also want to bring as much effort as possible into training and in each game,” said Jacobs, adding that the experience gained at this level is crucial to her future path in national team colours.

“My selection means that the work I have put into my football is recognized and rewarded. There are more opportunities that are available for me, i.e. international exposure. The national team is also a learning experience and offers the right time to grow my football,” she said.

The second-year BA General Studies student, who is one of six siblings and last year’s Junior Sportswoman of the Year at the Wits Sport Council Awards, will look to fully exploit this current opportunity to good effect, and in the process, make those in her family even more proud. “To represent my country is a big honour at this level. I have had my fair share of ups and downs with soccer, and that is what the game can be sometimes. So, I’m grateful for all the opportunities that come my way,” ended Jacobs.

Last-gasp penalty proves the difference between FNB Wits and FNB NWU

25 February 2020 - Suparugby.com

The Doc Christian Humphries wrote the final script when Wits fell ill in the second half to beat the NWU-Puk 27-24.

The Doc Christian Humphries wrote the final script when Wits fell ill in the second half to beat the NWU-Puk 27-24. Humphries, who came on late in the game, slotted a beautiful penalty to give his team a victory in a game of two halves.

The Johannesburg students had a brilliant first half, playing with pace and with width to score three tries in the first 20.Winger Matthew MacDonald scored the first after a overlap on the left touchline and Philip Krause scored a maultry in quick succession.

The third try was also score on the left flank with Daniel Kasende dotting down.A disallowed try by Aidynn Cupido would have given the Witsies a perfect cushion going into the second 40.Pukke changed their tactics and had a more direct approach, trusting their forwards. Chuiner van Rooyen scored after the break to give Puk a fighting chance.

Man of the Match, Travis Gordon, who turned back the clock with a superb performance, scored next, also down that left touchline. Replacement three-quarter Lincoln Daniel made an immediate impact with a beautifull try and before long Edmund Rheeder scored his second to tie the score at 24-all.

Then Humphries stepped up to the kicking tee and turned away arm in the air as soon as he striked the ball.

FNB UCT and FNB Wits share spoils to remain unbeaten

4 March 2020 - Andile Majola

The Ikey Tigers survived a late onslaught by FNB Wits to share the spoils as both sides remain undefeated in the competition.

In Round 5 of the FNB Varsity Cup, FNB UCT returned to the Green Mile to host their northern rivals FNB Wits. With both sides coming into the match undefeated thus far in the competition, the match started off as a cagey affair.

Wits, playing against the wind, did incredibly well to hold on to possession as they forced  the Ikey Tigers onto the defensive. Eventually the home side conceded a penalty in a kickable area and Kurt Webster made no mistake slotting the kick, putting Wits on the scoreboard.

The home side responded through a fantastic try by fullback Athi Gazi, as he beat two defenders on his way over the whitewash to score the Ikey Tigers first points of the match. James Tedder added the extras and UCT went into the break in the lead with the score at 7-3.

In the second half it was the home side who dominated both territory and possession in the early stages. James Tedder kicked over a penalty in the 53^rd minute to extend the Ikey Tigers’ lead to 10-3.

Wits continued to push for a try of their own but were met by a defiant UCT defence. Lock Emmanuel Tshituka eventually broke through, late in the game, to set up a thrilling finale courtesy of Webster's conversion.

Capetonian Aidynn Cupido broke the line late on in what looked to be a game changing moment for Wits with just seconds left on the clock, but the home side were able to shut down the attack as they earned their second draw in succession to hold onto their playoff place.

Awards
FNB Player That Rocks: David Meihuizen (FNB UCT)
Steers Kinging Moment: Athi Gazi (FNB UCT)

Scorers
FNB UCT: 10 (7)
Tries: Athi Gazi
Conversion: James Tedder 1
Penalty: James Tedder 1

FNB Wits: 10 (3)
Tries: Emmanuel Tshituka
Conversion: Kurt Webster
Penalty: Kurt Webster

Teams
FNB UCT: 15 Athi Gazi, 14 Gerard Pieterse, 13 Liam Furniss, 12 Michael Brink, 11 Rayno Mapoe, 10 James Tedder, 9 Kyle Bowman, 8 Liam Greenhalgh (captain), 7 Busanda Mabena, 6 Nama Xaba, 5 David Meihuizen, 4 Gary Porter, 3 Luthando Woji, 2 Cuan Hablutzel, 1 Ashwyn Adams.
Replacements: 16 Josh van Vuuren, 17 Devon Arendse, 18 Gugu Nelani, 19 Byron Bowes, 20 Byron Cranswick, 21 Liam Kloosman, 22 Godfrey Ramaboea, 23 Sebastian Roodt.
Coach: Tom Dawson-Squibb

FNB Wits: 15 Daniel Kasende, 14 Kwanele Ngema, 13 Yanga Hlalu, 12 Aidynn Cupido, 11 Lwazi Monakali, 10 Kurt Webster, 9 Runaldo Pedro, 8 Travis Gordon, 7 Cal Smid, 6 Constant Beckerling, 5 Emmanuel Tshituka, 4 Kevin du Randt, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Justin Brandon (captain), 1 Jason Cloete.
Replacements: 16 Mulalo Sadiki, 17 Ebot Buma, 18 Cornel Greeff, 19 William Thomson, 20 Ziyanda Msipha, 21 Hlumelo Ndudula, 22 Christian Humphries, 23 Sicelo Champion
Coach: Hugo van As

2020 Varsity Hockey Fixtures

5 March 2020 -

Wits Hockey Club will host the first round of the 2020 Varsity Hockey competition

The complete fixtures include:

Wits Triathlon athlete aims to make it count this time around

5 March 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Witsie Dylan Kruger won the National Sprint Triathlon title in February and are aiming even higher for the rest of 2020.

Beaming with the elation of a proud Witsie and eager to put the institution at the forefront of University triathlon prowess, a boffin of the sport at Wits, Dylan Kruger has undertaken to hoist the country’s flag high at the upcoming FISU World University Triathlon Championships.

The honours year biokinetics student has enjoyed many successes in the sport, notably qualifying for the world championships in Rotterdam in his first year of competing in the Olympic distance race in 2017, where he finished in 14th place overall.

Coupled with this, he qualified for the world championships in 2018 and 2019 but did not make it to represent South Africa due to academic commitments. This time he hopes to make it to contention, after bagging the ITU World Cup in Cape Town last year, with the added goal of finishing in the top three as an elite athlete at the March-scheduled Olympic distance race event.

“I feel it is achievable with a good race, which will allow me to go on to World University Championships in Hungary, where I will be happy with a finish inside the top five. I would also like to compete as an elite [athlete] at the 2020 SA and Continental Cup Duathlon Championships (to be held at the Killarney International Raceway) in June,” said Kruger.

With a catalogue boasting competing at the South African championships for the last ten years, and winning in his age group for the last two years in the Olympic distance race, Kruger is quite prepared to mount a boisterous challenge here.

“I have only been to world champs for triathlon once but have never been to the World University Championships,” said the overall winner of the sprint distance races for the past two editions (2019 and 2020). “It will be a new experience which is really exciting. It will also be nice to compare myself to other athletes that balance studying and training.”

Triathlon is an endurance sport consisting of swimming, cycling and running events, raced over an Olympic distance of 1 500m as part of an open water swim, together with a 40km cycle and a 10km run. The sport comprises a sprint distance covering 750m in open water, a 20km cycle and a 5km run. For Kruger, the sport has taught him discipline and dedication in wide-ranging aspects of life.

“I couldn’t be where I am today in triathlon, without the continuous backing of my family, who provide endless emotional and financial support,” He said. “My determination to always improve has enabled me to achieve what I have in the sport. I have recently been nominated as the athlete representative for North West Triathlon and have recently completed a technical officials’ course. With this, I think my triathlon journey has only just started.”

Dynamite comes in small packages as Wits gymnast looks to shine in Egypt

6 March 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The notation of dynamite coming in small packages could not be any truer of the exploits of one Karishma Naicker

The notation of dynamite coming in small packages could not be any truer if the exploits of one Karishma Naicker, a first year Physiotherapy student at Wits, is anything to go by.

The 18-year-old gymnastics extraordinaire is braced to bring her A-game when she takes to the mat at the 15^th African Championships in Sharm EL Sheikh, Egypt from 10 to 15 March. “This is the highest accolade that I have ever achieved in my rhythmic gymnastics career,” Naicker told Wits Sport.

“One goal that I set for myself was to get my Proteas colours and my selection for this competition has made me eligible to get them. Achieving my goal means so much to me. Since 2018, the team (a group of five girls) has worked incredibly hard to make it to where we are now.”

It has not all been fun and games, according Naicker. She has had to make a great deal of sacrifices en route to realising her dreams, notwithstanding, contending with a myriad of injuries, the constraints of time, and the added pressure of sorting through academics. “None of those setbacks can compare to what we have achieved,” said an adamant Naicker. “I made many sacrifices to make my dream work. I trained for 16 hours a week through grade 11 until matric, and even through the final exams.

“This year we extended our training hours to 20 hours and combined with University, the commitment is intense. It is not easy but every hour that I spend in the gym contributes to my greater goal, and of course, it is something that I absolutely love doing!”

Her participation as part of the country’s only Senior Olympic Group is in itself a mean feat. Naicker, along with the other four girls have had to work together, support and motivate each other while remaining selfless and patient.

“Sport is not just a physical exercise – it involves a lot of mental training. You have to push yourself and believe in yourself always. For me, this achievement is a combination of good and bad days, hard work, dedication, passion and never giving up. To be selected to represent my country, doing the sport that I love, means everything to me,” Naicker added.

Importantly, the young gymnast has had to find inspiration to support her love and growing aspirations in the sport. After doing rhythmic gymnastics for 12 years, starting out at the tender age of just six-years-old, today Naicker has developed into a robust and well-rounded aficionado.

“To be in the only Senior Olympic Group in South Africa, I had to draw my inspiration from rhythmic gymnastics groups overseas. I watch the major international competitions looking at the way teams perform as a unit,” said Naicker. “The team that I am inspired by is the Bulgarian Senior Olympic Group. They look after each other so well and when they compete they push through no matter what. Their dedication and passion inspires me to be better every day.”

FNB Wits celebrate another famous night at home with victory over FNB UP-Tuks

10 March 2020 - Sifiso Nyawo

FNB Wits kept up their winning ways, at the expense of erstwhile table-toppers FNB UP-Tuks who they edged 16-10 at home on Monday night.

In front of a vibrant crowd at Wits Rugby Stadium, the game got underway in a very cagey manner. As it happened, the visitors registered the first points on the board thanks to the boot of flyhalf Theo Boshoff, who sent an early penalty attempt through the sticks, to make 3-0.

Wits hit back almost immediately, thanks to a well worked team effort, that saw flanker Lindo Ncusane barge over from close range with the conversion attempt going astray to see FNB Wits lead 5-3.

A late penalty awarded to FNB Wits would be the last of the first half scoring from both sides, with the buzzer sounding and seeing the hosts enjoy a slender 8-3 lead at the break.

When play resumed, it took Wits eight minutes to add to their lead, with substitute kicker Chris Humphries adding a further three points with a penalty attempt.

UP-Tuks then took it to the Witsies, upping the physicality, but resolute defending kept the status quo as it was. It was actually the hosts who extended their lead even further, when outside centre Yanga Hlalu found some space to dash over and dot down in the corner to make 16-3, after the conversion attempt once again flew by on wrong side of the uprights.

UP-Tuks weren't giving up, though. Nico Luus' men continued to test the Wits defence until they managed to find a way through, with scrumhalf Raegan Oranje picking you from the base of a ruck to dive over for a seven-point try - having initiated in the Stripe Generation's half.

This saw the deficit cut to just six points, which could’ve easily been just four but for Boshoff missing his conversion attempt. A nervy finale was in the offiing, but the men in blue were able to hold on to secure a famous win – even if there will be concern for loose forward Constant Beckerling and winger Kwanele Ngema who succumbed to injury.

AWARDS
FNB Player That Rocks: Emmanuel Tshituka (FNB Wits)
Steers Kinging Moment: Lindo Ncusane (FNB Wits)

SCORERS
FNB Wits: 16 (8)
Tries: Lindo Ncusane, Yanga Hlalu
Penalties: Kurt Webster 1, Chris Humphries 1

FNB UP-Tuks: 10 (3)
Try: Raegan Oranje (point-of-origin)
Penalty: Theo Boshoff

TEAMS
FNB Wits: 15 Daniel Kasende, 14 Kwanele Ngema, 13 Yanga Hlalu, 12 Aidynn Cupido, 11 Matt McDonald, 10 Kurt Webster, 9 Luke Bramhall, 8 Cal Smid, 7 Lindokuhle Ncusane, 6 Constant Beckerling (captain), 5 Emmanuel Tshituka, 4 William Thomson, 3 Keagan Glade, 2 Mulalo Sadiki, 1 Jason Cloete.
Replacements: 16 Justin Brandon, 17 Ebot Buma, 18 CJ Greeff, 19 Kevin du Randt, 20 Ziyanda Msipha, 21 Christian Humphries 22 Lwazi Monakali, 23 Sicelo Champion
Coach: Hugo van As

FNB UP-Tuks: 15 Lionel April, 14 Stefan Coetzee, 13 Sango Xamlashe, 12 Wian van Niekerk (captain), 11 Kabelo Mokoena, 10 Theo Boshoff, 9 Raegan Oranje, 8 Jaco Bezuidenhout, 7 Hanru Sirgel, 6 Stephan Smit, 5 Marcell Barnard, 4 Ewart Potgieter, 3 JP Smith, 2 Llewellyn Claasen, 1 André van der Merwe.
Replacements: 16 Keano Hendricks, 17 Ethan Burger, 18 Mogau Mabokela, 19 Lukas Meiring, 20 Keenan Opperman, 21 Leshley October, 22 Elden Schoeman, 23 Alex-Zander du Plessis.
Coach: Nico Luus

Statement by FNB Varsity Cup

19 March 2020 - Varsity Cup

Smiling Assassin trades national team colours in friendly with Banyana

20 March 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits Ladies FC star player Patricia Nkotso traded national team colours as she strode out for her home country, Lesotho, with Banyana Banyana welcoming the Crocodiles for an international friendly hosted at the Tsakane Stadium in Brakpan on March 8.

The South Africa women’s team ran out 3-0 winners with an important encounter, as the build-up to the 2020 Africa Women's Cup of Nations tournament, which kick started for the two countries.

The win ensured Desiree Ellis’ team staked an early claim for prospective honours, first, with a brace from Rhoda Mulaudzi and then a sublime Sibulele Holweni strike, all helping to make early intentions clear. After the game, Wits Sport caught up with Nkotso, who is also a second-year Bachelor of Education student at Wits:

What did feel like to don the Lesotho women’s team colours against South Africa?

I was super happy because I was not only representing Lesotho but the Smiling Assassins (Wits Ladies FC) as well.

How would you describe your involvement in the game and the impact that you had?

I was confident on the ball, even though things did not go well on my side. I think this was because my teammates were scared of our opponents, which made it easy for [Banyana] to penetrate.

Were you pleased with your overall performance and the team dynamics on the day?

I was not happy with my performance because I didn’t get enough time to train with the national team. There was no combination between the person I was playing with and I. Overall, we lacked effective communication.

 What do you look forward to in the future with regards to any involvement at national level?

I see myself playing in overseas [leagues] in the future.

Patricia Nkotso during the 2019 USSA Football Tournament

Wits fencers put on a grand showing at Ghana championships

23 March 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The star quality of the Wits Fencing Club’s Ayanda Tuku and Harry Saner was put on full display as the pair took to the mat to represent South Africa at the 2020 Junior African Fencing Championships held on the shores of Ghana from 22 to 29 February.

The world number 93-ranked for the junior men's foil, Saner, and Tuku, who is formerly ranked 2nd in South Africa, eclipsed Nigeria 45-31 to seal their best result at the tournament. Since then, Saner has been selected to represent South Africa at the Junior World Championships in Salt Lake City, USA from the 4 to 11 April.

“I've also been selected in the foil for the Olympics zonal qualifiers to be held on 15 April in Cairo, Egypt,” said an elated Saner, describing his Ghanaian experience as difficult. “I was in a bad headspace going into the tournament and I felt that I had not recovered fully from my national competition the week before.”

Saner went on to draw in both the men’s foil and epee events before being edged by the epee champion in a tight match.  “Overall, I am disappointed with my 7^th place result but this is only fuel in my engine to push me forward to keep me working towards my goals. For the team events, we enjoyed more success; taking bronze in both foil and epee.

“Ayanda and I, along with the rest of our team, helped secure a convincing win against Nigeria in the bronze medal match. This was the first time two Wits fencers have won medals at the Junior African Championships,” said Saner.

For Tuku, who in January worked hard to raise funds en route to realising his dream of participating in his first Junior African Championships, the competition was filled with more lessons than expected. “For the first time in my life, I was introduced to an environment that takes fencing seriously,” said the junior fencer. “It was exciting to see that in other countries, the government actually puts in 100 per cent support in their fencers.

“I felt like this support actually allowed their fencers to perform to the best of their ability and not have to worry about the costs of the competition and stuff. For this reason, one could see a big difference between countries that are backed up at home and those that aren't,” added Tuku, thankful to have cracked the nod in his first international outing for South Africa.

“It was [however] an amazing experience to find a lot of competition. In terms of my performance: I can't really say if it was good or bad, seeing as though I don't have any other competition to compare it to. In this competition, I got an overall rank of 13 which is also my first international rank.”

2020 Junior African Fencing Champs

2020 Junior African Fencing Champs (Left: Ayanda Tuku and Harry Saner (just next to Ayanda)

Wits University Cricket Club and LPL Partnership

3 April 2020 - Sharmin Naidoo

The Wits University Cricket Club has embarked on a new journey over the last 18 months reaching the final of the USSA 2019 B Section and gaining promotion into the Gauteng Premier A League for the first time since 2006.

The Club has recently gone into partnership with the LPL and the National Premier League and has launched a new franchise team called the Wits Kudus that will participate in the LPL Tournament in Gauteng that runs over the winter just before the start of the new Gauteng Cricket League season. The Tournament has recently been endorsed by the Dolphins in KZN, the Cape Cobras in Cape Town now recently by the Lions Cricket in Gauteng. Coloured clothing and white cricket balls are the order of the day which is going to make for an exciting format. The partnership will ensure Wits University has a team represented in each of the age groups from u9 to Senior Level with the senior teams consisting of players from Club to National level players. The addition of the university franchise brings a new dynamic to the tournament from a professional recruitment and facility point of view which is going to make for an exciting period of cricket for all.

“Both the LPL and Wits University share a unique vision. We are committed to creating a showcase of opportunities for young aspiring cricketers while providing them with high performance coaching in a world class sporting environment. Woven into our core values is the establishment of an international standard pipeline of all backgrounds with a clear pathway to reach the very highest levels of this beautiful game. We are proud to introduce the Wits Kudus, the pride of an institution.” Ziyaad Desai, CEO LPL.

“The Wits University Cricket Club has grown in strength over the last 18 months. Our goal is to become the best University Club in SA and the world at large. We have calculated the steps needed to get the there and the LPL is definitely a platform that is going to support this ambition. We look forward to a fruitful relationship with the LPL and are very excited to get going in our first season this year.” Sharmin Naidoo, Head of Wits Cricket.

"I would like to captain an international side" – FNB Wits' Travis Gordon

7 April 2020 - Sifiso Nyawo

The Coronavirus-enforced suspension of the 2020 FNB Varsity Cup season has hundreds of players sitting idle, something FNB Wits’ Travis Gordon is not good at.

Gordon has a few reasons to lament being put on ice. At the time of the suspension of the season, the Wits backrower was injured, but fast-tracking his return. More than that, the Witsies’ form had them semifinals-bound and the 21-year-old's two tournament tries and FNB Player That Rocks award against FNB NWU in Round 4 has been key to that.

A week later, at FNB UCT, Gordon picked up the injury which forced him to lay low… before the whole of South Africa was then forced to too.

“I had a small grade 1 tear in my hamstring when I picked the ball up from the back of the scrum,” Gordon revealed to varsitycup.co.za.

Following oxygen chamber treatment and other rehab, the Gordon was due to return for the crunch Round 8 fixture against top-of-the-table FNB Maties. Instead, he’s now left to reflect on his journey at Wits. Gordon is a Jo’burger through-and-through, having been born there and matriculating from the prestigious King Edward VII School (better known as KES) in 2017 – alongside four other current teammates. He was named SA Schools captain that same year (with Keagan Glade and Yanga Hlalu also in that squad), so could have had his pick of universities but has not regretted his decision to stay local.

Wits’ Karishma Naicker beams proud at African Championships success

8 April 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Taking to the mat in another display of brilliance, Wits star gymnast Karishma Naicker added three silver medals to her burgeoning closet of achievements at the back of a successful assignment for South Africa at the 15^th African Championship held in Egypt in March.

The 18-year-old Physiotherapy student participated as part of the country’s only senior Olympic group in her first continental championships event. The diminutive rhythmic starlet described the experience as “everything I hoped it to be”.

Naicker said her team made a nervous start on the first day of competition but grew into it as it progressed. “On the day of competition, we warmed up well although practice space was limited. Our first routine (five balls) went well although we had two mistakes that cost us some points,” said Naicker.

“Our second routine (three hoops + two pairs of clubs) was better although we also had two mistakes in the routine. Overall, I would say that we expected our routines to be flawless but the [reality] is that it doesn't always happen on the day of competition.”

Significantly, according to Naicker, gymnasts are judged on their artistry, execution of skills and difficulty of skills – all of which they gain points for. They perform leaps, balances, pivots and flexibility movements, along with tossing, catching, rolling and otherwise manipulating the apparatus. To this end, team rapport is the ultimate recipe for success.

Naicker said her team had rapport in large doses en route to making the podium three times. “As a teammate, it is your responsibility to stay focused in both training and competition. If your teammate is distracted you need to motivate her and get her back on track. That's not all. You have to know and understand your teammates. You need to understand what they're going through at home, school and in the gym,” said Naicker.

Asked what her most memorable moment throughout the championships was, the senior Olympic group gymnast said it was standing on the podium with her teammates, with whom she has worked closely for the past two years. “We made so many sacrifices. We were so committed that everything else in our lives became secondary priorities.

“We got through the good and bad days and when we stood on the podium, united as South Africans, I was so proud. I was proud of myself but I was also proud of my teammates. We looked after each other and together we achieved our goal. Thanks to each other and, of course, our coaches today we are Proteas gymnasts,” added Naicker.

Wits and Springbok legend Paul Bayvel passed away

17 April 2020 - Suparugby

The former Springbok and Wits scrumhalf Paul Bayvel passed away on Tuesday evening. He was 71 years old.

Bayvel was diagnosed with stomach cancer which spread to his spine earlier this year.

Netball ace provides silver lining with national team selection

20 April 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The chaos of the coronavirus across the country has not tarnished the sporting exploits of Wits Netball as its 1^st team goal keeper and defence player, Simone van Reenen, prepares to once again don the national team kit.

The 2^nd year part-time BA General student was selected to the South Africa (SA) Under-23 indoor team to play against Australia and New Zealand, with the dates and venues for the tests yet to be announced while the country currently sits in the midst of a lockdown.

As the youngest member of the SA squad, van Reenen, who makes the junior national side for the second time since her first appearance at the age of 17, said she could not have dreamed to have come this far in the sport. “But I knew if I worked hard to get to where I want to be, that I would definitely get there someday,” said van Reenen.

She said her journey through the sport was not easy, as through her entire primary school career, she did not ever make the first team. Her resilience, however, did not take a knock. “I was always chosen to play in the [third or fourth] team,” she admitted. “I had to give up on many things but chose instead to pursue my love and passion for netball over going out with friends.”

She added: “It’s always an honour to play for the national team. It means a lot for me to represent my country and to know that the hard work pays off. I’m hoping that I can one day be part of the Proteas (senior South Africa) netball team. My other goal is to travel around the world and maybe settle in a club in Australia, who knows?”

A proud 1^st team netball head coach, Marguerite Rootman, said van Reenen’s selection comes deservedly and that her star player has what it takes to make a solid impression at this level. “She is a very hard worker and always gives her best. Even though she is the youngest player, I think she will be an asset to the team,” the coach said.

“On the outdoor court, I think she is an underestimated player because her demeanour is not what is usually expected from a defence player. Her selection for the SA Under-23 indoor team will be a big boost for her confidence and it is only a matter of time before we see her perform on these levels on the outdoor courts as well.”

USSA Football recruits Wits gem to be part of its Exco Legal Committee

5 May 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits University’s postgraduate law student and a shining midfielder within the ranks at Wits FC, Clinton Mphahlele, has been selected to form part of the USSA Football Exco Legal Committee as the student sports body looks to make monumental strides in the months ahead.

Mphahlele was nominated at a Special General Meeting of the USSA Football National Executive Committee, which triennially elects its executive members, on 11 April. The Lebowakgomo-born footballer is currently practising as a candidate attorney and formed as part of the 2017 Varsity Football tournament-winning UP-Tuks side, where he also obtained his Bachelor of Commerce law degree.

Now in his latest chapter, the 23-year-old student-athlete turned USSA Exco member will look to impress en route to reflecting on the key values adopted at Wits. “Wits University values excellence and that’s what l will continue to strive to achieve. That requires hard work and that’s a trait every student-athlete is expected to have to excel both academically and in sport. I will continue to work hard to serve the needs of the institution and the greater University football community,” said Mphahlele buoyantly.

On the key deliverables he has been mandated to carry out, Mphahlele will lend legal support to the Exco while working to protect the USSA Football brand in all legal engagements with stakeholders. Dealing with all disciplinary matters from members and developing a code of conduct for the organization, will also not be too far from the priorities of the burgeoning legal mind.

“Clinton’s is a well-deserved appointment,” added Sanele Nene, Football Manager at Wits FC. “He has a very deep understanding of the USSA Football set up, having previously been at the University of Pretoria for three years before joining Wits, and he is one of the best young minds in University football.

“The selection was appropriate and he has the relevant qualifications that are suited for the role. The attributes that the USSA Exco will benefit from this appointment are his work ethic, thirst for knowledge and desire to always go the extra mile both on and off the field.”

Mphahlele said he looks forward to making an innovative contribution while possessing the right dose of enthusiasm to tackle this new challenge. “As and when invited to make contributions, I will make innovative submissions and try to add [as much value as possible] to the committee,” he said.

Lungstar – From Mamelodi to the world, the Lungile Mtsweni story

7 May 2020 - Nandi Buthelezi

Born and bred in Mamelodi, Pretoria – Lungile Mtsweni’s passion for basketball started from the age of 14 at Clapham High School. Her journey has since then been remarkable. She is currently a PhD candidate for Exercise Science and Sport at the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) and is also part of the Wits Basketball team.  “Basketball is not a just a sport for me, it is my life. “

She is a true legend of her time having had the opportunity to sign a professional contract with professional basketball team BC Villamuriel where she played in the third division.  Mtsweni went on to make a name for herself in the Women’s Adriatic Basketball Association (WABA) League with ZKK Trensjevka, a Croatian based women’s basketball team. She admits that even though her career looked glamourous on the outside, there were some distasteful times in her journey. Born from a deeply rooted Christian home and her father a Pastor – her faith continues to play a pivotal role in the strong and courageous women she is today.

Feeling very optimistic to jet off to Spain and build her career, Mtsweni was not aware of what was on the other side – She reflects on some of these events:

“I had my most testing times in Spain, living in another country where Spanish is the language of communication – a language that was foreign to me. I found it difficult to communicate and adapt to this new environment but what made it even harder was my teammates who spoke in Spanish most of the time when I was around. There were days when I would go to training only to find that I was the only one there.

When she made her move to Croatia, she played in the first division. The first month and the weeks that followed were grueling for Mtsweni; she was not used to the high intensity of the training programme and she injured her knee within the second month of playing for the team. – It took four weeks to recover before she could to get back on court.

People would say she was weak; she was a typical girl from Africa with a big dream, they said she had no talent or skill. She would constantly remind herself why she wanted to play in Europe: the journey was never about her; it was always about inspiring and empowering every African that has ever dreamt of making it big one day.

 “Sometimes we would not get paid and I would run out of money to buy food - I would even eat expired food. Even though this was not the ideal meal at least I had something in my stomach.”

Her perseverance and resilience has proven to be rewarding in her quest to not only live her dream but to pave the way for many athletes who aspire to play abroad. Mtsweni speaks on a starting point to revive basketball in South Africa and to ensure that more people play the sport

“We have to establish a good foundation in the grassroots level and ensure inclusivity at all levels, there is a lot of talent in our communities and in our schools. We need to work with talented university athletes that know the game – empower them to ensure that they know how to deliver and impart knowledge on the fundamental skills of basketball. We need to open up opportunities for playing abroad so that South African players are exposed to the intensity and level of play internationally – these individuals can then come back and share their skills with more players in SA.”

Mtsweni’s vision is to see the growth of Basketball in South Africa and for it to reach a point where athletes do not have to leave the country to seek better playing opportunities. “I would like for us to have a sustainable career in sport, play professionally at the highest level, and make a living out of playing sport in our country. “ 

 “I would like to thank God almighty for making all things possible for me. My parents for their unfailing love and trust in my abilities. My sisters Tumisang who is my role mode, Noki and Itumeleng who are always supportive. My brothers who laugh at me sometimes, even when things are serious. I want to thank them for teaching me to be strong. I also want to thank my friends, teammates; coaches especially coach Mandla Ngema from the University of Johannesburg (UJ).  I want to thank the Wits Sport staff: Willie Matlakala, Manyani Maseko and Thato Meka. Wits administration, Ntshembo Vukeya, Kerry Yates and Michael Dick. I would also like to thank Anna Murunga from the Wits Faculty of Health Sciences and Dr Rodney Genga from the Wits Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment.

Photo credit: ZKK Trešnjevka 2009 2017/2018 team (Lungile Mtsweni #12 second row)

FNB Wits star player Dan Kasende signs to Griquas Rugby

25 May 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

WITS 1^st team XV rugby player Daniel Kasende, who burgeons with potential and possesses the sizzling pace of a track athlete, has recently been awarded a contract by the Griquas Rugby Union, which participates in the annual Currie Cup tournament.

Kasende joined the FNB Wits rugby ranks in 2015 en route to making a significant contribution to the institution’s on-field successes over a number of seasons. The star player will now embark on the next chapter of his career as a provincial player, where the grandiosity of earning your stripes, is the ultimate badge of honour.

Wits Sport caught up with Kasende and Wits 1^st team rugby coach, Hugo van As, to discuss the now-departing Wits player’s signing, what it means to Wits Rugby from a continuity standpoint, and how the player will embark on tackling this newest challenge in a developing career.

WHAT THEY SAID

The Player

What was your initial reaction to the news of your signing? How were you notified?

I was very happy with the news and I was glad that [a provincial contract] came through. I got the news from my agent.

Has it always been what you’d hoped for having come so much into your own at Wits Rugby over the last while?

Yes. I always knew that there would come a time for me to part ways with Wits Rugby, and I had always hoped that when that time came, it would come with the opportunity of playing at an even higher level.

Does this count as the biggest milestone of your career thus far?

Without a doubt – it’s a very pivotal step in my journey and I think the opportunities ahead are quite grand.

What are you looking forward to the most on the journey at the Griquas?

As it is a new adventure and a new environment, I look forward to the challenges that come with it i.e. having to relocate and starting out afresh somewhere different. I look forward to proving myself and earning the trust of my new teammates and coaches, both on and off the field.

The coach

Can enough ever be said about the enormous talent that is Daniel Kasende?

Obviously, when he joined us a young man, Daniel had ample talent and I think his biggest asset was his pace and his acceleration. But he had a long way to go and worked hard on his game. I truly believe he’s got amazing talent and has what it takes to cut it as a Currie Cup or provincial player.

What does it mean for the institution whenever a player, especially of such a calibre, is contracted by a South African rugby union?

For us, it’s great being that our primary job is to get players in, develop them and add value to their lives by working with them for two or three years. They day that a player gets a provincial agreement then we know we have done something right.

Does this development go down as a loss or a gain for Wits Rugby?

Losing a player of Daniel’s potential is a loss but we understand that we get players in we have a [short to medium-term] bite at them. So, we will feel his departure in our club but he’s added value to our environment and we’re very excited about this new page or season of his life.

What words of encouragement can you offer to a seemingly already-motivated player like Daniel, ahead of his journey as a rugby union player?

Becoming a [Varsity Rugby] player is one thing but becoming a good Test or provincial player is the challenge. I would encourage him to keep on working hard; he has to understand that it will be a little bit quicker and he will have a little less time to make decisions at that level … We want to encourage him to keep his feet on the ground and to stay the humble man that he has been.

Player information

Age: 24

Height: 188cm

Weight: 91kg

Position: Utility back

Place of birth: DR Congo

Institution: Wits University

Programme: Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Year of Study: Final year

Lockdown health and fitness.

26 May 2020 - Jacques Durand (Head of Wits Strength and Conditioning)

The national lockdown seems to be the perfect time to start a healthy lifestyle.

No alcohol, no tobacco, and until recently, no take-away food. Numerous people are engaging in some form of physical activity such as household duties, in and around the house. There are even a few that find new ways to get the clock to speed up and get active by doing push-ups and sit-ups, moving furniture around the house and counting your steps on your smartwatch as you now mow your lawn.

Even though the local gymnasiums are not open yet, the whole lockdown experience sounds like a healthier than normal lifestyle. Unfortunately, most of the time we start like a house on fire but we run out of steam before this could be imprinted and become routine. There are only so many push-ups and sit-up combinations that you can do before losing interest, and being creative with training plans and exercises are not always everyone’s cup of tea.

I guess that is why group classes, CrossFit and similar types of training are so successful. We just want to get told what to do, and if there are a couple of people doing it with us the motivation comes naturally. Even though there is a lot of expensive apps. and training plans being advertised, the opposite is also true. I will share some ideas and links for free together with very effective training solutions, that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Some of these exercises are being done by the Wits Sport HP athletes. Feedback from the well-trained athletes on these exercises indicates that it is challenging and fun.

It is very important to remember that you need to start slowly and progress according to your own pace. Should you choose to do any of the mentioned routines or if you are trying to make the most out of the 6:00 am - 9:00 am training slot, do it at a comfortable pace and stop whenever you feel the need to rest. Getting back to fitness should be seen as an exciting journey and not a quick race. We all know the benefits of exercise on our general physical and mental health.

Below are a few links to some of the quality workouts. Try them out and share your thoughts or short video clips with us on Instagram #Witssportadmin – Hopefully you will find something for everyone in the family, from dancing, boxing, and much more.

1) Les Mills on YouTube – 28-day BodyCombat Training - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gid7mT-1YnY

2) Les Mills on YouTube – Les Mills Dance Training – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9R8gxKLPEo
3) Wits Sport – May Fitness Challenge (soon to be June Challenge)
https://www.wits.ac.za/sport/
4) Exos Training Solutions – Might need some equipment or need to improvise a bit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-f6L9fuIpkg
5) The Nike Training App – Download onto a smartphone (Currently Free)
6) 30 Minute HIIT Training Cardio Workout – No equipment needed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ml6cT4AZdqI

REMEMBER: Stay active long enough for this lifestyle to be imprinted and become routine.

Wits makes history with 15 netball players set to represent Gauteng

1 June 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

History has come full circle in a first of its kind development which will see 16 promising Wits Netball players representing Gauteng at the Telkom Netball League (TNL) competition scheduled to take place later this year.

Dynamic in every sense of the sporting sense, Wits have embarked on checking a box previously void in its rich heritage, as no student-athlete from the institution has worn the Gauteng colours at the annual inter-provincial event.

Among the first to change this trajectory, Wits’ strength and conditioning coach, Lindie Lombard, along with the talented squad members of the Wits Open team in Renske Stolts; Talja Venter; Melanie de Lange and Tshina Mdau, have all been chosen to run out for the Gauteng Fireballs team, while Samantha Holder, another member of the experienced Wits senior group, was selected into the Limpopo Baobab side.

For the Gauteng Senior Elite squad, Anja Esterhuizen, Dakalo Tshikala, Kagisho Itholeng, Kelly Gouws, Refilwe Tswai, Simone van Reenen, Siphesihle Zungu and Baby Protea Panashe Chiranga have made the cut.

Itholeng, Gouws, Chiranga and van Reenen make the achievement all the more special for Wits as the only juniors in the 16-member Wits contingent. “I think it is a huge achievement for players this young to be exposed to the TNL, even as training partners,” said netball sports officer at Wits Sport, Tebogo Rabothata.

Claudia Aggenbacht and Danielle de Kock raised a competent hand as they made the Gauteng Junior squad; the third of the home province’s teams to be entered into the tournament. “It is an honor and privilege for us as an institution to have such talented student-athletes,” added Rabothata.

“The selection of these student-athletes means a lot for the entire Wits community, the sport and the club itself. It also shows that we have quality and are capable of representing Wits at a higher level in the sport. [The selection of our athletes] will help the institution attract more students to the University as they may also look to join and play for the Wits Netball Club.”

Wits coach Bongani Ntini named CGL Coach of the Year

3 June 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Less than a season in as the new first team head coach at Wits Cricket and Bongani Ntini has already started raking in the high plaudits. This as he was named the 2019/20 Central Gauteng Lions (CGL) Coach of the Year following the cricket governing body’s annual awards presentation, which was this year hosted virtually on 27 May, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The award found its way into Ntini’s trophy cabinet for his work in guiding the Cricket South Africa (CSA) Focus School, Queens High – a co-ed school based in Johannesburg – towards qualification in the prestigious CSA Schools T20 Week.

Expecting nothing less than gold from his players and in his exploits as a coach, Ntini waxed lyrical over his latest accomplishment and the expectations which accompanied it. “I did expect the award after all the hard work that has been put in over the last ten years [or so],” Ntini admitted.

“I’m quite excited and honoured to be recognised, not only for the 2019/20 season, but for all of the 10 years in which I’ve been coaching within the structures at CGL.” As it is normally the case when one discovers they are a prize winner, finding words to describe the feeling can escape in the moment, but in Ntini’s case, the converse applied.

“It’s quite exciting to have seen my name up there,” said the Zimbabwe-born coach. “At the same time, it came up as a motivation to sort of start over, refocus and get more energised. To be noticed for all the work I’ve been putting in came as [just the right boost] ahead of the upcoming season.”

Cricket sports officer at Wits Sport, Sharmin Naidoo, said his organisation went into immediate celebration at the unveiling of its coach as a CGL award-taker on the night. “It’s obviously a great honour for any institution or organisation when one of their own reaches new heights,” said Naidoo. “We’re very excited for Bongani, who has been an inspiration to our cricketers and our cricket programme – where he’s injected a whole bunch of enthusiasm and energy.”

One such cricketer inspired by Ntini is Keagan Williams, who spoke highly of the newly-crowned CGL recipient. Williams said his coach received the recognition he deserves and that he waits with eager anticipation to once again be at the receiving end of some good-natured advice from him on his game. “I think coach Bongani rightly deserves this award as seen in the amount of time and effort [he] is constantly putting in.

“Despite working so hard with the Wits Cricket Club, he still makes time to assist other school and sports teams,” Williams added. “Coach Bongani is very committed and determined and this influenced me as a Wits cricketer because he is always pushing me to go farther than I believe I can go, which makes me hungrier to strive for more.

“Once this lockdown ends, I hope to carry on with the coach just where we ended, which was speaking to him regularly on advice on my game, seeing him for extra sessions to help me improve and listening closely when he speaks.

Former Wits FC star winger to turn out for Spanish club

8 June 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

A European odyssey is in order for a household name in the ranks at Wits FC as a former player braces to run out for an international Spanish club during the 2020/21 season.

Waylan Rooi, a devastating left wing who spent last season with Kaizer Chiefs Under-23s, previously spending two years with the prestigious Nike Academy, an English football academy formerly based at St George's Park National Football Centre, is primed to fulfil a life-long footballing dream as he prepares to bid adieu to Wits.

Rooi captured the imagination of talent scouts and players alike from early on, winning Nike’s The Chance South Africa competition as a fresh-faced youth in 2014, beating off hundreds of other hopefuls, in the process. A few years on and he would produce wittiness, charisma and flare en route to becoming an integral part of the cog at Wits FC over several seasons.

He will now jet off to join CD Almuñecar City in a chance which will likely see him infuse the same level of speed and Kasi (township) flavour into the Spanish style of play, according to Wits FC coach and, one who has observed Rooi’s talent over a span of many years, Alzavian van Rheede.

“I think CD will get a player that is finally where he wants to be; who is now a happier human being,” said van Rheede. “His speed and skills are among the best I’ve seen from a South African player and he has a well-educated left foot that has been designed for football. But most of all, CD will get a Waylon Rooi who is a natural-born winner and an amazing human being.”

Speaking on the opportunity to come, Rooi said he had a feeling that things were about to come to a head on a chance of a lifetime, and since fate has complied, the mercurial winger has his sights on shining fervently bright. “This is an important step forward for me and I am positive that everything I will learn in the next year is going to add to my character and help me overcome whatever is up ahead,” said Rooi.

“At this moment, I am really looking forward to playing with my new teammates, learning [a new] language, creating memories and, of course, winning. Wits was and still is my family – where I learnt the importance of mental strength and, if anything, it is something I will continually hold close to me,” added Rooi.

From a Wits Football perspective, and the coach in particular, the summer of Rooi’s career in the form of an international stint, is long past its due arrival. “I'm not surprised Waylon has signed for a club in Europe. What I am surprised at is that it's happened so late into his football career,” said van Rheede.

“I knew [sic] Waylon since he was 12-years-old and playing for Wits Juniors. He was an amazing talent at the time and far ahead of many players. He had the speed of a 15-year-old, skill and the game intelligence of an 18-year-old. I honestly thought he would be in the Bafana national team at 18 or 20 but this is football in our country, where lots of top talent fall through the cracks, and it doesn't make sense that our system can't pick a player up like Waylon Rooi yet Spain [came] calling,” he concluded.

Waylan Rooi at the 2018 Varsity Football Tournament

Lockdown Health & Fitness Vol. 2

29 June 2020 - Jacques Durand

As we spend more time in this lockdown period, it “unlocks” new challenges.

As we spend more time in this lockdown period, it “unlocks” new challenges. The word fitness means more than just running. Fitness is the quality or competency at which we fulfil a particular role or task. Call it conditioning, as we prepare ourselves for different tasks and challenges.  We have to condition our bodies and minds to adapt and get better at something. Lockdown has given us some unfamiliar challenges and we have to condition ourselves to adapt and thrive. The biggest challenge that everybody is facing, including children, students and adults, is the amount of screen time.  Meetings take place in front of the computer throughout the day, online classes from early in the morning until late in the afternoon; even school classes take place on the computer, as tasks need to be completed online. 

Working with student athletes, I found that the daily routines of being a student has changed significantly from a physical perspective. For some the idea of online classes might sound like the perfect world.  You get up in the morning, no need for an early shower or being stuck in traffic, and attend class while sitting in the comfort of your home, enjoying a snack and having a coffee on tap. Until we notice some neck and back pain, sudden head aches and a struggle to concentrate after sitting in front of our computers for hours on end. It is also much easier now to overdo bad diets and caffeine.

Why would this be any different from our pre-lockdown academic routines?  We are less physically active.  This leads to missing out on the benefits of being active: Improved sleep; maintaining healthy blood sugar and insulin levels; better concentration; more oxygen rich blood to our brains; stronger core muscles; and the list goes on. On average, a student on campus covers approximately 4-6km per day and if you are the lucky one the get the last parking space on the other side of campus, you could even get a quick 1km sprint, just to make it on time for the 8:00am lecture. Walking on campus or climbing those never-ending stairs to get to your office whilst carrying that heavy laptop bag, is a way of being physically active. These activities strengthens our core, neck, back and leg muscles with added cardiovascular benefit. Thus everyday normal activities have valuable physical and health benefits.

Looking at some easy solutions, working from home can be more effective and beneficial when doing minor adjustments. Here are some suggestions and links to solutions that I found to be helpful, when focussing on routines and your home desk ergonomic setup.

Firstly, plan and program breaks in between your online classes and meetings. You can alternate your physical activity during the breaks by doing some stretching activities and walking around in the house or outside in the garden. Concentrate on your hydration and make sure that you limit your caffeine intake. Short breaks will do wonders for your concentration and productivity.

Secondly, you can find many ergonomic solutions, but it comes with a heavy price tag. Posture, chair, laptop and desk setup is very important to avoid those headaches, sore neck and back aches.  Have a look at these links; create something that best fits your environment, and discard the rest. I have found many different opinions ranging from distance to screen, chair and desk height. So choose something that works for you.

Creating Perfect Ergonomic Workspace-Ultimate-Guide

Five Ways You Are Sitting Wrong at Your Desk

Nine Tips for a Healthy Ergonomic Work Station

Work From Home Laptop Ergonomics

How to Position Your Laptop in the Office

Home Tips Setup Ergonomic Laptop Workstation

WWC’s heroine leads shining example at first-ever FIFA tournament

19 July 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Punching far above her weight at the first-ever FISU eSports Challenge Football, Wits Wargames Clubs’ (WWC) exciting heroine and a bona fide psychology whizz, Khaalidah Mohammed, led a shining example in a sport which is, arguably, male-dominated.

This as for the first time in the history of the world, a virtual FIFA pitch was rolled out and players from around the globe invited to showcase their skills with the controller, en route to claiming an acclaimed place as an inaugural competition winner at the 6 to 16 July event.

WWC’s Mohammed competed as part of a group of 12 female players divided into two groups comprising six participants each. Having already shone as the only female at the University Sport South Africa (USSA) tournament last year, it was an instant no-brainer that she would blaze into contention at this first of its kind FIFA online tournament.

With only a week to prepare, Mohammed braced herself for a beast unknown to her, but the excitement of it all paved a clear path for prime contention. The opportunity, despite admittedly being overcome by being “scared and the worst at FIFA gaming”, Mohammed said she had to put her best foot forward.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity,” she said. “I was and, today, still scared because I don’t really play FIFA. I’m [possibly] the worst but I was told to do my best and that doing my best would make them proud. This encouragement is what allowed me to be part of this amazing opportunity. I would have been an idiot [sic] to let it pass … my participation [as a female] sets the tone for future generations to come.”

The 21-year-old added she went into the tournament with some clear hopes and aspirations. While playing the best she could and raking up whatever manner of results she could, important to her was giving it her best … come win or lose.

“This tournament is going to become something which happens on a yearly basis, and that allows me and Wits, the opportunity to search for new eSports players within our student bodies and so forth,” shed added.

Speaking on the challenges she experienced, particularly at the backdrop of the on-going coronavirus pandemic which has engulfed the world, Mohammed, who doubles up as a Wits Underwater Club (WUC) member, said her lack of access to sufficient internet connection or a PlayStation console at home made for tough going.

She, however, commended Michael Dick, head of sport at Wits Sport and sports officer, Macdonald Mashao, for their prompt actions in procuring a FIFA game for her to play, along with arranging several other necessities needed to prepare.

Mashao added that the development and a Wits student-athlete’s subsequent participation at the tournament, boded well for the institution going, more so as Mohammed was the only female from not only the institution, but from South Africa, to take part.

“For Wits Sport, the fact that she was the only female at USSA last year, and now again, makes a statement when it comes to equality and inclusion of females in a sport which is male dominated,” said Mashao, adding, “It bodes well for the institution as we get that female representation at an international level.”

Women’s Month: Wits’ sporting women have their say!

14 August 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

AS SOUTH AFRICANS celebrate Women’s Month in earnest amid the chaotic nature of social existence brought on by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, and the recent wave of GBV in the country, five of Wits’ stellar female student-athletes took the time to reflect on their role in sport and what it symbolises.

Sharmaine Shungube, Wits Boxing 

Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?

A: Sport has not always been something women were allowed to take part in, especially combat sport [such as boxing], as we had been made to believe we were too soft or fragile to be a part of such sports. You wouldn't imagine the different reactions I get from people when they hear I'm a boxer.

Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?

A: That's the great part about being able to do something everyone thought you couldn't do, proving them wrong. And by being able to do so I celebrate all the women that put in their blood, sweat and tears so that we can be women.

Panashe Chiranga, Wits Netball

Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?

A: Being a woman in sport is a constant reminder of how our capabilities stretch far beyond our expectations. It shows the beauty that exists in the versatility of a woman.

Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?

A: Women's Month, to me, is a reminder of the great power and monumental influence that women have, more so, when we are united.

Trystan Da Silva, Wits Cricket

Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?

A: Sport has taught me the fundamentals of being a part of a team. I am more goal-oriented, driven and motivated to be a better person on and off the field. Discovering a deep love for cricket has truly changed me. The techniques, discipline and overall fitness has created a deep-seeded passion in me to be a better sister, focus more on my academics and love myself more.

Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?

A: There is something inside of you that wants to stand out and be recognized and that’s what’s special about Women’s Month. In a world full of violence, pain and anger women are shown some sort of gratitude and appreciation for who they are … Women deserve to be respected and because of the past generations’ guidance, we will scream until we get it.

Sarah Wentzel, Wits Gymnastics

Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?

A: Being a woman in sport has been challenging, to say the least. In the sports I have competed in, such as dance and gymnastics, I have had to work hard. I started later in life, without prior training, and had to work harder than those around me ... We are capable and I like to show that. I have will power and strength within me [and] can do hard things and I have relied on God for all that strength and ability.

Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?

A: Women's Month is a celebration of the type of humans we are, compassionate, kind, loving, forgiving, so welcoming and inviting. We are capable of feeling the emotions of people and emphasising on deep levels. I appreciate women around me, like my mom, who is one of the best women in the world.

Lezaan Jansen van Vuren, Wits Hockey

Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?

A: I sometimes ask myself the question: ‘Why do men play “football” but women play “women’s football”?’ I feel that female athletes deserve a space in sport irrespective of men. For a female athlete to find a “place” in the traditionally male domain is challenging …. For me, being a woman in sport is encouraging and it gives me the opportunity to voice my opinion and inspire young girls to keep on working hard because there will be a better future in sport for them.

Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?

A: Women’s Month, for me, is a very special month where we as women can stand together to raise awareness of issues women are facing worldwide. This month gives us the opportunity to show the world that we matter and that we are worth much more than what we are put out to be.

Wits Frisbee star earns maiden national team call-up

10 September 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

A Wits Ultimate Frisbee Club (WUFC) star in the making has etched his name into the conscious of the world games on the back of being selected to represent the senior South Africa team at the World Ultimate & Guts Championships.

The coronavirus pandemic eventually dictated matters to a different tune to force Hlogonolofatso Mokoena, a second-year Computer Science student, to miss out on a maiden national team assignment, which was set to take place in the Netherlands in July of this year. The 21-year-old will have the good opportunity afforded to him once again dealt at the same time next year, when the competition will be staged after it was postponed for a year.

As a feather in the cap, Mokoena’s call-up to national duty was for the senior side thanks to an exceptional display at the South Africa trials which were held at the Diggers Rugby Club in Randburg six months earlier. “I was invited because the coach knows my abilities and had seen me perform in tournaments and games,” said the Frisbee star.

“The trials [then] took place, for which I had trained most of December [last year]. Two weeks after the trials, the final team was selected and I was part of it,” added Mokoena, who singled out the milestone as the biggest of his burgeoning student-athlete career.

“It will go down as the highlight. The day I received the e-mail saying I made the team was one of the happiest days in my life. It meant so much to me as this had been my goal since I started ultimate Frisbee. It means a lot as I would like to represent my country at the highest level – it has always been my dream since I was young, to represent my country in any sport.”

Travis Myburgh, who coached Mokoena as the WUFC first team coach in 2018 before moving onto his current role as the WUGC Open Team (Mambas) coach, spoke volumes of the latter’s abilities. “I first met him when I was coaching Wits in 2018, which was also his first year. He immediately impressed me with his athleticism,” recalled Myburgh fondly.

“Not just raw athleticism like pace and agility, but impressive footwork, which is integral for our sport. Over the years he has developed and refined his skills to become even more lethal. Probably the defender I'm most scared to face 1-on-1 in Johannesburg, if not South Africa.”

When asked what it has been like coaching a student-athlete of Mokoena’s stature, Myburgh said it has been a dream. “He has the passion and dedication to improve himself toward a level that he has never played. This is important because while you can get away with a few things when you are one of the best players on the field in South Africa, you cannot when you compete against the world's best, as they are all as good or better than you.

“You have to develop a standard through self-study and aspire to that. Then you have to work at it. He does this and is this is why he's in the team. He has a lot more to learn, and I am confident that he will be an even better player once he has returned from WUGC,” he added.

Shining excellence paved as Wits six graduate!

16 September 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER for a group of Wits University student-athletes who have aced their respective study programmes en route to being in line to don the prestigious garb of academic excellence.

Waiting in line to receive their plaudits are Wits Football’s quartet of Clinton Mphahlele, Bradley Mongwe, Keamogetswe Mokalake and Thabelo Mammburu. Joining them for their share of the same limelight is Wits Hockey ace Nomnikelo Veto and Wits Volleyball’s Olly Nukeri.

Wits Sport asked each of the six what the best thing is about graduating and how they plan to use their qualifications to mould a better society? This is what they had to say.

Clinton Mphahlele, Bachelor of Laws

Graduation is a subtle reminder that dreams come true, which gently nudges you to dream bigger. The law is inextricably intertwined with economics, politics and social life. Therefore, my aim is to use the law to effect social change for the betterment of society.

Clinton Mphahlele in action in the Varsity Football Semi-final against UJ (2018) Photo Credit: Varsity Sports 

Olly Nukeri, Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Quantity Surveying

My graduation was the best achievement ever, especially the first one. Coming from a marginalized background, it was never easy for me to survive but what kept me focused was the fact that I wanted to make my mother proud.

Today I hold two qualifications (BSc Construction Studies and BSc with Honours Quantity Surveying) from one of the biggest Universities on the continent … Even though I am unemployed now I still have the pride of going to my previous high school to motivate my fellow brothers and sisters on the importance of education.

Keamogetswe Mokalake, Bachelor of Economic Science and International Relations

The best thing about graduating is probably seeing the results of my labour, it’s not easy at all balancing academics and the football schedule we’ve had over the years. In the immediate, probably just that satisfaction and in the broader sense, having a qualification you enjoy and would like to pursue further.

Economics is very broad and touches base with a lot of facets of society. So, for me, with a financial market focus, just helping build a financial sector that is inclusive of the most marginalized in South Africa will be a win.

Bradley Mongwe, Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Quantity Surveying

The best thing about graduating is the knowledge you've seen something through all the way, especially with the difficulties of being an athlete at the same time. To fight the stereotype and show that it is possible to be a footballer that does well in school.

I'm in the construction sector and it's no secret that we are lacking in infrastructure development in our country. I would like to use my qualification by forming part of a team that brings solutions to these issues; deliver better services and infrastructure to our people because there are parts of this country that really lack in this department.

Thabelo Mammburu, Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

The best thing about graduating is finally achieving your child hood dreams and aspirations on paper. All the sweat and tears throughout your undergraduate journey, accumulating to a qualification that not only gives you the title, but also opens doors for you in your field of study and beyond. It is a confirmation to the world at large that you are qualified to join the professional space and have the ability and potential to add value and to effect positive change.

As a qualified chemical engineer with a Master’s degree, there is a confidence and a firmness that develops within one’s voice. My intention is to use that same voice to actively inspire the young and upcoming that may not have all the necessary support towards achieving their academic goals. I believe that to whom much is given, much is expected and that once you have reached the so called top, you need to send down the ladder for those coming after you.

Nomnikelo Veto, Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Relations

The best part of graduating is not only making my granny proud because she has sacrificed so much for me but being able to achieve in different aspects of life . Not just playing in the national team but also achieving outside of that is really fulfilling. I’ve gained so much knowledge in my undergrad and I hope that wherever I choose to work I can do meaningful work. I hope to be involved with township kids and get them bursaries in sports in the future.

Nomnikelo Veto in action in the 2019 Varsity Hockey Tournament Photo Credit: Varsity Sports

Wits Netball, Football Ladies among finalists for Women in Sport Awards

29 September 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Continuing Wits University’s rise to the highest echelons of sporting dominance in the province and beyond, a number of the institution’s best student-athletes and clubs recently cracked the nod for the year’s Futballing Girls Johannesburg Women in Sport Awards.

Wits Yacht Club's Emma Clark and Michaela Robinson came in as the institution’s nominees for Sportswoman of the Year alongside Wits Football’s Thabelo Mammburu. Making the cut for their own slice of glory in the same category were Wits Netball Club’s Panashe Chiranga and Simone van Reenen, who was also nominated in the Sports Achiever of the Year category.

The plaudits did not end there as the Wits Tang Soo Do Club’s Anushka Monema, a finalist in the same category at last year’s Wits Sport Awards and the subsequent 2019 Gauteng Sport Awards, also made the cut here. Rounding up Wits’ hoard of nominations were Robyn Johnson, Nomnikelo Veto and Ashleigh-Jean Datnow, who came in as Wits Hockey’s very own star trio in the highly-contested Sportswoman of the Year category.

Additionally, Datnow made the cut for the subsequent Sports Achiever of the Year prize, while a star of the hockey landscape in her own right across the vast University scene in Johannesburg, Lezaan Jansen van Vuren, also put her hand up in the same category. Another prominent athlete, who has risen to prominence across a competitive University sporting circuit, is Wits Football’s Shakeerah Jacobs, who got a mention in the Sports Achiever of the Year category.

Both the University’s Netball and Football Women’s clubs asserted their profile by storming in as nominees for the coveted Team of the Year award, while Wits Football’s Nokwanda Ngcobo made the nominees list for Volunteer of the Year. In the end, it was the Wits Football Ladies who secured a berth as finalists for Sports Club of the Year award.

Wits Netball became the second club from Wits to secure a finalists spot for the Sports Club of the Year award while also impressing en route to landing as finalists in the Team of the Year category. One of the club’s most prominent figure’s, Veto, was the eventual finalist from the institution for the prized Sportswoman of the Year accolade.

“I am happy that we get to recognise our female sport athletes and give them the recognition they deserve,” commented Wits Yacht Club sports officer, Ntshembo Vukeya. “The club’s nomination shows that Wits University Netball has quality in terms of playing personnel and comprises of classified staff doing a great job behind the scene,” added sports officer for Wits Netball, Tebogo Rabothata.

Sharmin Naidoo, the Wits Hockey Club sports officer, said it is always great to have any player that is nominated for an award on any stage. “These ladies have really been special for the Wits Hockey Club over the last few years and their nomination is just reward for the hard work they have put in,” said Naidoo.

Njabulo Xulu, Wits Tang Soo Do sports officer, was full of praise for Monema, who continues her ascent in the martial arts form. “It is great news that Anushka has been nominated again at such a big event as she was also nominated for Junior Sportswoman of the Year at the Wits Sport Awards last year. This shows that her hard work and dedication has been paying off. Congratulations to her on the nomination!”

Wits Women's Football Team at the 2019 USSA Football Tournament

4 Witsies in Springbok game

1 October 2020 -

Several Witsies will be on show Saturday in the official Springbok trial game

Two Witsies and two former Witsies are part of the Springbok Showdown on Saturday on Newlands in Cape Town. The match will be used a official Springbok trials in the build up to the Rugby Championship in Australia later in the year.

Wandile Similane will start at outside centre for the green team next to experience veteran Morne Steyn. Marvin Orie will start at 5 lock for the gold team. Former Witsie Gianni Lombard will start at fullback for the green team while centre Manny Ras is on the bench for the gold team.

Similane, Lombard and Ras all played Varsity Cup rugby for Wits in 2017.

Annual Wits Sport Awards sign off on touch-and-go sporting year

10 October 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

In a year marred by the global coronavirus pandemic, the Wits University community tipped its hat off to the boys and girls whose sporting heroics have paved the way to strengthening the institution’s position as the number one destination for academic and sporting excellence in Africa.

To honour this exceptional cohort of student-athletes, who have flown the University’s flag high in various disciplines throughout the year, whether hosted virtually or behind closed doors, Wits Sport held its own first-ever virtual awards presentation evening, the Annual Wits Sport Awards, on 8 October.

And although the year saw the cancellation of a myriad of Varsity Sport events including the Varsity Cup tournament as well as USSA 2020, success for the institution came in different shades. The student-athletes who have excelled at senior club or provincial tournaments over the past 12 months were honoured with the University’s Half-Blue colours.

Its recipients included Jichandre Sambo, Thabo Ranamane and Rutendo Nyikadzinyo (Tang Soo Do); Erin Haupt and Gabrielle De Sai (Hockey); Emanuel Tshituka and Banele Mthejane (Rugby); Anja Esterhuizen (Netball); Sebastian De Oliveira (Cricket); Nkotso Mapota (Football); and Khaalidah Mohammed (Wargames), among a host of others.

Next were the students who excelled on the national and international stage, representing both the University and the country in spectacular fashion. These athletes were awarded Full-Blue colours and came in the form of Ayanda Tuku (Fencing); Panashe Chiranga and Simone van Reenen (Netball); Chad Futcher, Nomnikelo Veto and Rusten Abrahams (Hockey); Dylan Kruger (Athletics) and Karishma Naicker (Gymnastics).

Full-Blue Cum Laude colours, for the individuals who have achieved senior national colours (the highest level of participation in the athlete’s designated sporting code) would go the way of the Wits Fencing Club’s Harry Saner and the Wits Yacht Club’s Michaela Robinson, Emma Clark, Hearn Johnson, Tawanda Chikasha and Ryan Robinson.

The biggest award-takers of the night came in the Junior Sportswoman of the Year and Junior Sportsman of the Year categories, where gymnastics prodigy Karishma Naicker and the mercurial fencing talent of Ayanda Tuku, respectively, raised their hands highest to earn a coveted feather in the cap. This while Michaela Robinson and Harry Saner, respectively, emerged as the year’s burgeoning recipients of the Sportswoman of the Year and Sportsman of the Year awards.

2020 Wits Junior Sportwoman of the Year: Karishma Naicker

2020 Wits Sportsman of the Year: Harry Saner

The Wits Boat Club scooped the Club of the Year trophy following an impressive 2019 in which they attained the highest number of medals in year’s at USSA-R Sprints, with two of the club’s members also being selected to trial for the student national team. The women's side improved overall at USSA-R Sprints, going from 5^th the year before to an overall 4^th.

The club also achieved two shared awards, including the University Rowing Ian Maxwell Award for the club with the most spirit. The club participated in the Gauteng Senior Championships and the SA Senior Championships and competed in the Universities Boatrace to raise its profile in the sport, among a hoard of other achievements.

2020 Wits Sports Club of the Year: Wits Boat Club

Other winners on the night included Kwanele Ngema, who was awarded the 2020 Mel Siff Award while the Rising Star Male winner for 2020 was Wits Rugby player, Kabelo Mokheti. Kagisho Itholeng walked off with the Rising Star Female award, for her selection as a training partner for the Gauteng Golden Fireballs team for the upcoming Telkom Netball League while also being included in the Gauteng Junior Elite Squad.

Rising Star Female: Kagisho Itholeng

Wits University Cricket Club joins the LPL

12 October 2020 -

The next version of the LPL Cricket tournament in Johannesburg will include The Wits Kudus, the new LPL Cricket Franchise owned by the Wits Cricket Club

Head of Cricket, Sharmin Naidoo, jumped at the opportunity to join this exciting event that has been a permanent feature of the Johannesburg cricket calendar for the past eleven years.

 “We have been afforded a great opportunity to partner with the LPL and give our players a new platform to show off their skills and play against and with some of the best players in the greater Gauteng region. The LPL provides the perfect preseason shortened format tournament and the white ball and coloured clothing just makes it that much more inviting. Many of our students have already been playing for other franchises over the years but this gives us a gap to include more players and have them play for us,” said Sharmin Naidoo.

The 2020 auction function was held at Nonnas restaurant in Rosebank where the team owners, sponsors and officials enjoyed a great evening of bartering for players. The final Wits Kudus senior squad includes Liam Peters, Juan Landsberg, Khwezi Gumede, Siyanda Ngxangane, Farhaan Sayanvala, Tumi Koto, Zwelo Ntshimbini, Lutho Sipamla, Glen Adams, Cole Abrahams, Matthew Lovatt, Thando Ntini, Mo Ahmed, Jet Mawudzi, Keven Renecke, Nicholas Smit, Yaseen Valli, Willie Wannenburg, Keegan Williams, Brandon McCabe, Haydan Bowman, Bandile Ngcobo, Josh Streak, Tumelo Yeki and Zakhele Sibande. Wits Kudus Senior Staff will include Bongani Ntini (Head Coach), Vincent Jordaan (Asst Coach), Dean Laing (Bowling Consultant), Suhail Patel (S&C Coach), Kevin Bennet (Team Manager).

The LPL is a part of the National Premier League which includes the DPL in KZN and the CPL in Cape Town. Wits is the first university in the country to take the step towards this franchise cricket event. The tournament also includes under 9 to under 19 age groups which will create a pipeline for Wits Cricket.

“Wits, being one of the top academic universities in the world, are looking to become one the greatest sporting universities. What better way to achieve this, than by partnering with the LPL and creating a clear and distinct pathway for their aspiring cricketers. Through the LPL, the Wits Kudus, will boast a structure that will encompass cricketers from the age of eight until the professional level player. They will harness and nurture young talented cricketers while providing them with an opportunity to enhance their education at a world-renowned university,” said LPL CEO, Ziyaad Desai.

Covid-19 has pulled the handbrake on this year’s LPL Tournament but all the teams are ready to hit the ground running as soon as Cricket South Africa gives the LPL the green light. The next event promises to be the best one yet.

Player-coach duo rep Wits with pride at 2020 TNL

20 October 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The Telkom Netball League (TNL), South Africa's premier netball tournament, has returned and leading a shining example as the only player-coach duo of the Wits Netball Club first-team are Panashe Chiranga and Marguerite Rootman, respectively, who will make their presence felt at the October 14 to 27 event.

Showcasing the best talent from across the country, 12 teams featuring all nine provinces, will put their A game on full display as they vie for top honours. "Personally I am extremely proud of Panashe and the player she has become," said coach Rootman, who believes the experience of featuring at the flagship event will be rewarding for her star player. "She is not only
representing the Gauteng Golden Fireballs at this tournament but also the SA Under-21 squad."

When asked what it meant for her to represent the institution on a stage of this kind and how she hopes her participation alongside Chiranga will bode, the coach oozed with optimism. "People are starting to talk about Wits and how the netball has grown. It is unfortunate that Covid happened as we were aiming to qualify for the Varsity Cup this year. Even though Panashe
is the only student-player here, we had three other players involved," said Rootman.

"Anja Esterhuizen was chosen for the team but had to withdraw [after being diagnosed with a terminal illness] shortly after the team was announced. This was a big loss to the team. We also had Kelly Gouws and Kagisho Itholeng as training partners for the Fireballs. They are young players and to have been identified at this age is a huge achievement." The year's TNL is set to be played every day for two weeks, contrary to previous years, where games were played every weekend over an eight-week period with a break of one week in between.

But due to the Covid-19 pandemic this time around, organisers have taken the extra precaution of staging the tournament in a bio bubble. Rootman added that the frequency of games will be harder on the players' bodies but said she is confident her young star, Chiranga, will impress. "I can see Panashe worked hard during the lockdown as she is holding up pretty well and her place in the team is well deserved. She gets to play against some of the best players in the country and that alone lifts her standard of play," said Rootman.

Highlighting what the outing means for her, Chiranga said it is a huge achievement for Wits at large. "It is a great achievement, personally and for the University to have a player and coach combo participating in the league. With this being a big league in South Africa and finding myself in the presence of such great netballers, I am hoping to gain experience from these
two weeks of daily games," said the netball ace.

 Netball South Africa U/21 Team in the Telkom Netball League Photo Credit: Netball South Africa

Naicker and Robinson named 2020 Wits Sportswomen of the Year

3 November 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The crowning moment for Wits University's best female student-athletes came at the 2020 Wits Sport Awards, the institution's annual awards presentation evening, which was held virtually for the first time this year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Michaela Robinson of the Wits Yacht Club and the Wits Gymnastics Clubs' Karishma Naicker raked in the plaudits when they were named WSA Sportswoman of the Year and Junior Sportwoman of the Year, respectively. The jubilant duo, both of whom have hoisted the Wits flag high at various national and international sporting events over the past 12 months, spoke to Wits Sport on their achievements and what the biggest token for their sporting heroics means to them.

Naicker said the award will undisputedly go down as a highlight in both her sporting career and as part of a first-year student experience, which she continues to take in her stride. "I feel honoured that Wits Sport has recognised my achievement in this manner," the boisterous teenage sensation told Wits Sport. "It is exciting to receive such good news, especially during this time of Coivd-19, which presented many challenges. Fortunately, the rhythmic gymnastics section of the African Championships took place early in the year, enabling me to compete."

While the rhythmic gymnast tackles every competition with courage and determination each time she steps onto the mat, Naicker admitted being awarded the accolade was unexpected. "I really did not expect to receive this award and was caught off guard with the news. I would not underestimate the calibre of other sportspeople at Wits. It is a humbling moment for me," she added.

Karishma Naicker 2020 Wits Junior Sportswoman of the Year

Robinson, who has taken the South African yacht scene by storm, owing to various successes within domestic waters and on an international level, described being hit by an "overwhelming" feeling at taking home the coveted Sportswoman of the Year prize. She acknowledged the incredible calibre of sporting women within the corridors of Wits and said even coming up as a finalist for the award would have been a great achievement. "As a sailor in South Africa, you do not always get taken seriously ... because it is not a 'main-stream sport'," said the thrifty sea boffin.

"However, Wits must be part of the select few [institutions] who acknowledge all achievements in any sphere of sporting. Winning such a prestigious prize means so much to me but, also, to the Wits Yacht Club as a whole. I am at the stage now that I still have not quite come to terms with the fact that I was awarded this prize. It is such a privilege," added Robinson, who attributes her continued success to her family.

"Everything I have ever learnt has been through them. Whether it is them actually teaching me or just supporting me in anything I do. They are always there to help me and are continuously urging me to go out into the world and learn as much as I can," said Robinson. "But more specifically to this award, because of the Cape2Rio Yacht race, I must say it would have been made possible without the partnership with JM BUSHA 54, my family and my crew – Emma, Ryan, Hearn, Tawanda and Jonathan. Without them I could not have dreamed to achieve this."

Michaela Robinson 2020 Wits Sportswoman of the Year

Wits Yacht Club member Campbell Tiley received the award as Michaela could not attend the awards photo shoot.

Wits Fencing duo clinch WSA Sportsman of the Year double

4 November 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The Wits Fencing Clubs' Harry Saner and Ayanda Tuku once again showed their mettle when the pair stole the show at the year's recent Wits Sport Awards. This as they emerged the respective recipients of the University's biggest male individual sporting prizes, Sportsman of the Year and Junior Sportsman of the Year.

The fencing stars danced, dazzled and shone on the mat at the 2020 Junior African Fencing Championships held in Ghana early in the year, stating a strong case, on their way to being named the eventual best sporting men at Wits. For Tuku, who oozes with modesty, the award pays credence to the love and dedication he encapsulates for the sport, which like sailing, carries its own weight among the smaller sports disciplines.

"[Winning the award] has to be my biggest University highlight, thus far, and it came at a point when I least expected it. Being shortlisted as the finalist was already big news for me. To actually find out that I am a winner was just mind-blowing," said Tuku. "If anything, I wasn't even expecting to get a single award. I was jumping all around the house when I received the shortlist email from Wits Sport. It had been the greatest news I had received that week.

"It is one of the greatest things that have happened in my sports career and I think it just goes to show that hard work does really pay off. Also, it was just an affirmation that all the work that I put in the fundraiser, at the gym and during competitions, was actually getting recognised," said Tuku, who added, "I hope that this award is motivation for a lot of young Africans who are in my position. I hope that this shows them that it is really possible."

 Ayanda Tuku 2020 Wits Junior Sportsman of the Year

Meanwhile, Saner, the stealthily world number 93-ranked fencer for the junior men's foil at the time of the Ghana competition, accepted his prize with the same grace which has seen him make a mercurial rise through the combat sport. "It is with great joy that I accept this award for myself and for Fencing. It is a founding sport of the modern Olympics with a long and rich history that I am proud to be a part of," said Saner. "It feels amazing! I am so appreciative of the Wits community for giving me this award. I am extremely grateful for the people who have supported me throughout my sporting journey. This award recognizes and validates the grit it takes to overcome the difficulties and challenges that being a student sportsperson presents. It is fuel to my Fencing fire and yet another gem of positive reinforcement that is so valuable to me and the Wits Fencing community."

On the question of how he hopes to use his influence to inspire others, Saner said there is no one singular formula for success. His motivation for others, particularly the student- athletes of the wider University realm, is "it doesn't matter who you are". The fencer said: "I hope to show others that this success does not just come from mindless repetition. It comes from being mindful and actively engaging in something you love ... By sharing what it took to excel in my sport – the training, the sweat, the tears – I can inspire the sportspeople of South Africa to believe in themselves and pursue success in what they love."

Harry Saner 2020 Wits Sportsman of the Year

Wits Rugby players roar with pride at U21 Championship

6 November 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The year’s SA Rugby Provincial U21 Championship final came and went with the champions from 2019, the Vodacom Blue Bulls U21, mounting a successful defence of their title by downing the Xerox Lions U21 48-33 at Emirates Airline Park on October 30.

Wits Rugby had eighteen players who featured in the U21 Lions squad, namely: Banele Mthenjane, Morne Brandon, Dameon Venter, Ebot Buma, Keagan Glade, Jason Cloete, Edward Junior White, Emmanuel Tshituka, Cal Smid, Mark Snyman, Sibusiso Sangweni, Travis Gordon, Runaldo Pedro, Hlumelo Ndudula, Jordan Hendricks, Ngia Selengbe, Lindo Ncusane, Thabo Ndimande. We would like to congratulate these players for being part of the squad and putting up a sterling performance to make the U21 Championship the final against the Bulls.

Lions U/21 Currie Cup Team (Photo Credit: Lions Rugby Company)

Wits Sport spoke to Sibusiso Sangweni, Cal Smid and Travis Gordon to find out about their experiences of playing in the 2020 edition of the SA Rugby U21 Championship. Travis Gordon, whom despite remaining on the sidelines due to injury on the day, was buoyed by how close his team got to clinch the final.

“…To represent the lions at the highest possible level of age group rugby was extremely exciting,” said an upbeat Gordon. “We made it difficult for ourselves after losing our first game, but it made the journey up to the final even more exciting.

“Our goal was to win the U21 Championship [but] making the final was part of the journey. Unfortunately, we fell short and it is extremely disappointing, especially, having had to watch from the sidelines.”

Sangweni, who staked his own mark on proceedings with a line that put the Bulls U21 defence in all sorts of disarray as he crashed over the whitewash in the first half, noted the disappointment of losing the plot at the final hurdle. The flanker said his side failed to capitalise on the moments that mattered most.

“For my team and I, it was not just about making it to the final, it was about finishing strong and making a mark as a team,” admitted Sangweni. “I think that we did the best that we could do at that time, however, I do think that we could have won the big moments in the game, as that was what the game boiled down to.”

Getting the Lions U21 into a 14-10 lead midway through the first period was Smid, who carried his team forward with a brilliant undertaking. The beastly player has since cut a figure of sheer optmism ahead of  the coming year, despite a whirlwind 2020 season which was brought to its knees by the coronavirus pandemic.

“As tough as this year was it was a successful year rugby-wise for the teams I was a part of; from the Wits Varsity Cup team — going unbeaten and breaking records every week — to making the final with the U21 Currie Cup team. So, in saying that, I enjoyed 2020 and my biggest goal is to enjoy 2021 and play exciting rugby,” said Smid.

WSC chair, vice take charge ahead of new academic year

16 November 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The Wits Sports Council (WSC) is primed for the 2021 academic year after its new chair and vice-chair were elected at the student body’s virtually-held Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 3 November.

In a year hard-hit by a pandemic, it will be up to Grace Taylor (chair) and Harry Saner (vice) to lead the Council forward with certaintity as they look to achieve its set objectives and increase its profile within the greater University community.

“We aim to grow Wits Sports’ profile and our presence, both on-campus and online,” said the duo as they step into their new roles. Taylor and Saner said this will include upping the representation of some of the smaller clubs while ensuring students are aware of the variety of clubs they can join.

“Furthermore, we want to highlight and celebrate the incredible achievements that our clubs and players have achieved while supporting them in their journey to reach new heights in 2021,” the pair added.

An important one going into the new year will be continuity, not only for the Council, but for the University and the world at large due to Covid-19. For Taylor, the WSC has earmarked a near-completed 2020  as the right time to start on the implementation of some specific strategies to curb the coronavirus on campus.

“The remainder of 2020 [into] 2021 will focus on ensuring compliance with the Covid-19 regulations laid out by the University, and the respective organisations to which each club belongs, while also ensuring all clubs are able to return to activity,” said the incumbent chairperson.

Grace Taylor: 2021 WSC Chairperson

“Furthermore, we want to ensure each of the University's clubs have their best interests represented. So, we will be looking at the current sports officer review procedures and encouraging Wits Sport to take action, should any be required. WSC is always available to any Wits sports club should they need any assistance, advice or support.”

Taylor, who plays hockey for the ladies first team, and Saner, who walked away with the coveted 2020 Wits SportSportsman of the Year award in October, jointly agreed that at a fundamental level, Covid-19 has in many ways shaken things up in terms of how they will now pursue fulfilling the Council’s mandate.

“It has, at least for the time being, changed sport as we know it and with that, it is clear that we will have to be flexible and adapt to circumstances as they arise,” said Taylor, with Saner adding that this will spill out to include uncertainty on what 2021 will look like for the University, and the respective events, tournaments and competitions in which the different Wits clubs participate.

“In  the meantime, we want to call on all club members to respect the regulations put in place by the University - to protect one another and participate responsibly,” said Saner. "I look forward to doing more sport with the Witsies and I hope to have a fun and safe time; making  sure we can all participate in more sport together within the current environment,” he added.

Harry Saner: 2021 WSC Vice Chairperson

Wits sailor Tawanda Chikasha sails into favour for Zimbabwe Achievers gong

23 November 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

The year 2020 has been emblazoned into the consciousness of the global community and bracing to end it off on a sensational personal note is the Wits Yacht Club’s Tawanda Chikasha, who has been nominated for the Zimbabwe Achiever’s Award (ZAA).

The ZAA, which is an internationally recognised awards brand, celebrates and promotes innovative and commendable high achievement by people and organisations of Zimbabwean descent, while tipping a hat off to its various connected partners from around the world.

Chikasha, in January, took to the waters of the Atlantic with his JM Busha 54 team — comprising Michaela Robinson, Emma Clark, Jonathan Ham and Hearn Johnson — ahead of finishing in third position in a strong field, and eventually capturing the class one handicap and line honours. The team also scooped the prize for First Youth as they closed out an incredible showing at the event.

On his latest milestone, coming at a time of radical social change, the 24-year-old BCom honours student spoke to Wits Sport on what it means for his burgeoning sailing career and how he plans to use it to leverage his ambitions looking ahead.

Tawanda Chikasha at the 2020 Wits Sports Awards

WS: What do the Zimbabwean Achievers Awards signify for you?

TC: It’s a great award to be nominated for; it signifies that the work and the accomplishments in terms of the Cape2Rio sailing campaign have been recognised, not only as a sporting accomplishment, but for the social goals that our campaign was centred around.

WS: Why is it important that you were nominated? Describe your reaction to the news?

TC: It is important because I was nominated in categories that aren’t specifically about sport. I was nominated in the categories Community Champion of the Year and Male Personality of the Year, and this signifies the impact the team and I had outside of just sailing and the sporting accomplishments.

WS: What would it mean to you and other young Zimbabweans for you to win the award?

TC: It would be important for me to win this award to further inspire young Zimbabweans to do great things and to aim for the stars. It really shows that challenging and pushing yourself comes with the recognition and the acknowledgement for your efforts.

WS: What words of encouragement do you have for others who aspire to the same success?

TC: I encourage young people to experiment — to be open to trying new things which aren’t usually done, and to be open to pushing themselves while continually being open to learn as much they can.

WS: What goals have you set for yourself in 2021, academically and in the sport of sailing, and how do you look to achieve them?

TC: Next year, I plan to study overseas; doing a masters [degree]. On sailing, I’m planing quite a few things including, hopefully, launching a campaign to circumnavigate Africa and visit different places and landmarks, specifically, lighthouses that are quite relevant to the history of how the waters around these countries played a big role in the development that took place.

Witsies in contention as Spar championships get greenlight

26 November 2020 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits Netball have it all to clinch as a helter skelter sporting year comes to a head with the staging of the SPAR National Netball Championships in Bela Bela, Limpopo from 6 to 12 December.

In prime contention to conclude the netball calendar in grand fashion for the Wits Netball Club are players from its first and open teams, after the championships were given the greenlight to go ahead amid the current Covid-19 climate.

The 15 players have been selected for the Johannesburg Netball Association’s teams set to represent the Gauteng province at the annual flagship event on the grounds of the Zwartkloof Resort.

Keneiloe Kgasi, alongside the star power of the other Wits senior open team members, Renske Stoltz and Zanneke Ras, will be eager to put their experience to good effect with Christine Facius, Megan Martin and Jemma Heidmann of Wits’ junior open team keen to emulate those exploits.

Claudia Aggenbacht makes the cut as the only player from the Wits first team under-21 while

eight players from the regular first team, Panashe Chiranga; Simone van Reenen; Refilwe Tswai; Ashleigjh Gray; Kelly Gouws; Meisie Senokwane (non-travelling reserve); Kagiso Itholeng and Danielle de Kock, complete the field from the University.

“The girls are happy and appreciating the opportunity to represent the Johannesburg region [as part of the Gauteng set-up] in the upcoming Spar National Championships,” said Wits sports officer for netball, Tebogo Rabothata.

“Also, they are happy they will be able to get some game time, play with and against [some of the best players] after a long time of not playing any competitive netball due to the Coronavirus.

“[Further] it will bring the prospects of them being selected for the under-21 national team as well as the Telkom Netball League (TNL), opportunities which will allow them the exposure needed to improve their skills and playing abilities,” Rabothata added.

Wits Netball Players: Panashe Chiranga. Siphesihle Zungu, Simoné van Reenen and Coach Marguerite Rootman at the 2019 National Netball Championships

Wits prepares for a future certain of continuity after Bidvest

8 January 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

“From a Wits Sport’s side we were extremely sad to see the end of Bidvest Wits FC. It was totally unexpected and came as a big shock!”

These were the sombre words which understandably clutched at the chest of Wits Sport head, Michael Dick, who leads the high performance sports wing of the University of the Witwatersrand, and like with many at the institution, was taken aback following widespread reports that Bidvest Wits had been sold.

But the reality was not left to the marauding passages of the media reports which surfaced in the wake of this. The reality was and remains just as big as the two institutions at the centre of it – one academic and the other a player in the corporate space. The sale of the club to National First Division (NFD) outfit Tshakhuma Tsha Madzhivhandila signalled the end of an almost 15-year-long partnership between Wits University and the Bidvest Group.

The trading and distribution company’s CEO and chairman, Alan Fainman, confirmed the sale of the senior men’s professional football club, in which Wits previously held a 40 per cent stake while Bidvest owned the lion’s share of 60 per cent. Wits had already sold its share to Bidvest prior to the new takeover and merely looked on as the Premier Soccer League club was put on the block.

Now, with the sale done and dusted and the pleasantries exchanged, does it mean the eradication of the near 100-year dynasty of the University’s footballing heritage? It means anything but as loyalists, and those closest to the University, are assured there will be life after Bidvest for Wits FC and the institution’s ever-growing football programme, all be it in the murky era of uncertainty presented by Covid-19.

“The University’s football club has been doing great on the male and the female side of things. Wits FC started in 1921 and has never stopped existing or operating even when the Bidvest partnership happened,” said Dick, assuring the wider Wits community and the students and athletes who will make the institution home in the future.

 “This iconic club will celebrate its centenary this year and it is untrue that 99 years of history has been wiped out by the sale of Bidvest Wits FC. It is just one chapter that is closing,” added Dick. “The club has been part of the DNA of the University, and Wits Sport has been integral in its formation and over the years. The University was part of the many successes and shared in the difficult times.”

On the University club side, there has certainly been a good run of success enjoyed over the last while, which included making the 2017 World Student Games in Chinese Taipei before the Wits FC men’s team stormed to their first-ever Varsity Football final in 2018.

Bidvest Wits, meanwhile, had found the recipe of champions as they captured the 2016/17 Absa Premiership title after downing four-time winners of the country’s top-flight in the Absa (then title sponsors) era, Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 at the FNB Stadium in Soweto on May 27, 2017.

The University’s ladies football team qualified for the 2018/19 Sasol Women’s League in the same year as the Wits FC men made the Varsity Football final, with the Wits men returning to compete in the subsequent World Elite University Football Tournament held in China in 2019. Here, Wits FC became the first-ever African team to compete at the event ahead of making passage to the final, where the side lost out to University of Tübingen from Germany.

Again in 2019, two of Wits FC’s most promising men’s footballers in Kurt Pienaar and Saluleko Mathonsi, donned national kit colours en route to running out for South Africa at the World Student Games in Italy, while the South Africa Under-20 women’s team was bolstered with the sprouting talents of Wits’ Shakeerah Jacobs, Lebogang Ntabeni, Ayanda Ncube, Siphesihle Dlamini and Robyn Coetzee at the year’s COSAFA Women’s Under-20 Championship held in Port Elizabeth.

These successes, along with many others left to the annals of months or years past, will only continue from this point on. But this will require the same combination of ingredients which have made Wits, as a whole, one of the most competitive institutions of higher education and learning on the African continent. Wits Sports’ head believes that a new and more exciting chapter waits on the other side of the bitter and mostly shocking disappointment of seeing Bidvest Wits being let go.

“Many people have contributed to, and sacrificed for the club over the years and because of this, we unreservedly understand the disappointment, and in many cases shock from students, alumni, staff, former players and former staff members. We want to assure all those people, however, that Wits FC is in good hands and will continue to play a big role in the South African football story,” Dick added.

The Wits FC Men’s Team is set to compete in the 2020/2021 ABC Motsepe League Season. However, The South African Football Association has suspended all amateur football due to the rise of COVID-19 infections. The Association will make further assessments on Sunday, 31 January 2021.

Wits University Football Club: Photo Credit - Cody Van Wyk

TNL second-round trials put on ice as Wits continues preparations

25 January 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

With the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic tightening its grip in South Africa causing huge disruptions to the sporting calendar just weeks into the new year, preparations ahead of the upcoming second-round of Telkom Netball League (TNL) trials have done anything but abate for coach Marguerite Rootman and her shining 1st team Wits Netball troops.

To accommodate elite players who had finished their studies but did not form part of a club, Rootman has banked on funneling in experience while identifying senior team candidates through various high-performance recruitment drives, including last year creating an Open team, as part of ongoing efforts to increase Wits’ burgeoning profile as a netball juggernaut.

A number of these players have been front and centre of the University’s success, after coming through at the SPAR National Championships in Bela Bela in December 2020, and are now waiting to get another bite at the cherry when the dates for the upcoming future TNL are finally announced.

For now, individual preparations continue in earnest as the players are following their individual programmes at home, to ensure they are primed for contention, ahead of a role call with the coach, whose plans are to start training with the High Performance squad in the second week of February.

“I've been doing a lot of strength and conditioning at home in preparation for the 2021 season,” said Panashe Chiranga, who is vying for a spot in the SA U21 team having featured in the 2020 TNL competition.

Wits Netball Player Panashe Chiranga

“As we can't be on court for team training [yet] I am, however, hopeful that it will happen soon. I'm excited to step onto the court again, play the sport I love, and grow in skill and experience.”

Simoné van Reenen is another player; often “underestimated” by selectors because of her soft demeanor, according to Rootman, the Goal Defence (GD) turned Goal Keeper (GK) player is hopeful of making a solid impression.

“Hopefully, when I make the Gauteng team, I will definitely want to spirit and motivate the [unit],” commented van Reenen. “The SPAR Champs were a great opportunity and it was such an honor to play with top elite players and by playing with them, I definitely gained a lot of experience.”

Wits Netball Player: Simoné van Reenen

Speaking on her chance to form part of the 2021 TNL, Refilwe Tswai, another talented member of the Rootman-headed cog, made no bones about the enormity of the opportunity. “It's very encouraging to know that I'm noticed. But not only that, it also tells me that there's always someone watching, and so, I need to keep working harder and thinking smarter on the court.

“I am very thankful and happy about it. It wouldn't have been possible without my current resident coach [Rootman] and U21 provincial coach Nomsa Zungu, not to mention the wonderful and very talented girls that I had the privilege of playing with; girls that became sisters,” said Tswai.

Selected Wits Netball Players: Panashe Chiranga, Simoné van Reenen, Refilwe Tswai, Renske Stoltz, Ashleigh Gray, Kelly Gouws, Kagisho Itholeng and Jo Prins (joining Wits Open in the 2021 season).

Players that are still part of the TNL trials but could not attend the National Netball Championships due to various reasons: Lindie Lombard, Talja Venter, Samantha Holder, Zanneke Ras, Anja Esterhuizen, Melanie de Lange and Keneiloe Kgasi.

Wits Netball Player: Refilwe Tswai

New Basketball Association to Leverage Female Representation

2 February 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

The local basketball landscape has embarked on writing a new and exciting chapter for women in the sport, aimed at reverberating across the continent, thanks in part to the collaborative efforts of current and former Wits Basketball faces.

It is often said the sport is not just merely that; a sport ... it is a lifestyle. The launch of the South Africa Women’s Basketball Association (SAWBA) will not only give credence to the notion, but it will support the growth of female basketball participation while promoting and upholding a rigid structure contrary to its previously unkempt appearance.

As a foot soldier in her own right, Nicole Mangondo, formerly a bullish power forward for the Wits Lady Bucks and now part of SAWBA’s Programmes Committee — following the launch of the association in December last year — has praised the strides made in and for the hoop-shooting sport.

Asked what this latest development means for the South African basketball scene and, in particular, women’s basketball, Mangondo outlined that the association “aims to get women’s basketball organised”.

“The association wants to have strategic partners in the development of basketball for women at all ages, stages and platforms, be it differently-abled basketball players to officials,” said Mangondo, adding that pivotal strides have been made.

“It is something that most women have wanted to do but haven’t necessarily had the platform nor the confidence to do so. We are now at a point where technology aids in making communication, reach and development easier but, don’t forget, the future is female.

“We are all educated in various fields and together with our different experiences that relate to basketball, this allows us to have the combined confidence in our abilities to see this through.”

Nicole Mangondo in action in the Varsity Basketball Tournament

Undeniably, there have been challenges along the way. The ex-Witsie said this was evidently self-doubt and the pressing need to subscribe to a working method, that is, ensuring the t’s are crossed and i’s dotted.

“We are always looking to someone else to make the moves yet we ourselves are capable of acting,” said Mangondo. “Despite what we may think, there is always someone who is thinking what you are thinking and is willing to help you to achieve shared goals.”

And on the said method itself, she explained: “The next challenge is doing things the absolutely correct, diplomatic and structured way, therefore, making this a p-r-o-c-e-s-s. We won’t get it correct the first time; we are learning as we go but with everything we are trying to follow the correct procedures and structures”.

In its objective endeavor to create and uphold a lasting legacy, the association will strive for the country to be competitive on both the African and international scenes. At the forefront of SAWBA’s key values are respect and reputation, both pillars which will support the future athletic, academic and skillful talent that aspires to succeed within South Africa.

Ipeleng Nyatlo in action in the Varsity Basketball Tournament

Thandiwe Nqanda in action in the Varsity Basketball Tournament

Former and Current Witsies involved in SAWBA:

Former and Current Coaches and Manager:  Former Wits Basketball Assistant Coach: Nompumelelo Ramatsoga, Wits Basketball Assistant Coach: Manyani Maseko and former Manager: Ngoza Phiri-Mazarura

Players Current and Former: Nicole Mangondo, Ipeleng Nyatlo, Thandiwe Nqanda, Rudo Kaseke and Modiegi Mokoka

Ex-Wits coach praises ‘all-round’ Bulls en route to capturing Currie Cup

7 February 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

A new name has been engraved into the coveted gold trophy of the Currie Cup after a day steeped in heroics saw the Bulls trot to a 26-19 win over the Sharks at their Loftus fortress on Saturday.

It was a game where the home side trailed before seizing the initiative in classic tug of war fashion, equally matched by the opposition on the day, before finally snatching a last-gasp winner — after the scores were tied 19-all in the closing stages of the second half of extra-time — to ring in the celebrations beneath a storm-threatened Pretoria sky.

But while a thrilling brand of rugby, characterised by combative aerial kicking interspersed with a sharp eye for the try line ensured the Bulls came out on top, equal credit would go the way of a stern defensive strategy coming through for the campaign-winning effort.

This is the view of Joey Mongalo, an aficionado in his defensive coaching role at the Pretoria-based side, who waxed lyrical of the win but credited the blended formula of good attacking, breakdowns and set-piece play which accompanied the 15 players on their way here.

“The defensive structure the guys have bought into [demonstrates] how they’re really putting their lives on the line regarding the tackle situation,” said the former Wits and Junior Lions coach. “Structurally, they’ve bought into the plan and that’s always rewarding ... which should bode well for us.

“Was it a key component? I think all the components were key; our coaching staff there’s a lot of guys who work hard — the breakdown coach, attack coach, line-out coach and even Jake as the head coach. All of the coaches’ work comes together to produce a good product on the day.”

Mongalo said the cup win was a particularly emotional one for him as he had been contending with a myriad of issues leading up to the game. “It all came out in the emotion of that final whistle but it was also very much rewarding because we could see the effort that we had put in over the last seven months,” he said.

“Also, the Sharks we played against were pretty good. I thought at a stage they might have done enough to win the game; they were tactically very good. They’ve got a simple game plan but when they execute it, they put a lot of pressure on the opposition.”

With the recent changing of the guard at the union which has seen them go through four or five head coaches in the past five years, according to the defensive coach, who is, however, tipping the Bulls to carry the momentum of this cup triumph forward, there exists an air of expectation that stability can be achieved.

Elaborating on this, he said if the coaching staff and playing group can stick together for the next two or three years, the last seven months can be reflected on with a sense of accomplishment, and to a greater degree, grace in the face of defeats.

The ex-Wits coach, who enjoyed pockets of success with Wits University in the Varsity Cup, is optimistic of the institution’s propensity to produce future domestic rugby success stories. “You can expect to see ex-Witsies in many teams over the years,” said Mongalo.

“Wits has become one of the powerhouses in Varsity Cup now; it has become the place of choice for students to come to play rugby after school,” he added. “That can also be put down to the work that Moby [Michael Dick, director of sports at Wits Sport] and Hugo [van As, Wits 1st team rugby head coach] and the Wits Rugby office is doing.

“It’s a matter of time before you see more stories like Daniel Kasende, who played for the Griquas, and Lux Ntsepe who also played for the Griquas. I think you’ll see many more Witsies in big union teams over the years because Wits is a great breeding ground for both players and coaches.”

Vodacom Blue Bulls, 2021 Carling Currie Cup Champions (PC: Blue Bulls Facebook Page)

Chess turned passionate YouTube pursuit: The Koketso Mathebe story

23 February 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Following in the footsteps of the Soviet Chess Champion and engineer Mikhail Botvinnik, a Wits University Mining Engineering student has embarked on teaching the popular strategic board game of chess to the masses.

Koketso Mathebe attempts to have his passion rub off on the curious novices using his YouTube channel, Unclekay Academy, a platform which combined with the intuitive and competitive two-player recreational game, lends itself to the genius of Botvinnik — who also as a computer scientist and teacher pioneered computer chess.

The channel was launched in August last year with the aim of shining a light on chess. According to Mathebe, the game of strategy is still considered by many as a niche undertaking. However, the chess player says his channel will serve as a crucial reference point to address this stereotype and other related myths.

Taking time out from his busy schedule to chat about his love affair with the game, the future mining engineer unpacked the importance of why people ought to learn it, and the basic strategies they can adopt on their way to becoming whizzes or future chess champions.

In his own analysis of the relationship between engineering and chess, the third-year student said both are founded on the ability to think critically. He also said each discipline calls on unique problem-solving skills in addition to requiring specific methods in order to achieve a solution.

Koketso Mathebe playing a game of chess

WS: Why the objective to create a YouTube channel aimed at teaching people chess?

KM: My love of chess and passion for teaching. So, incorporated, that is to ‘teach chess’. To inspire and to bring awareness of chess and that if I can do it, the next person can do it too.

After I started the YouTube channel, people close to me were inspired; they started to learn. With my love for teaching and helping people, YouTube was a platform to reach more people as far as the digital world goes.

WS: When did your love affair with the recreational board game sprout? Describe this journey.

KM: It has been hard for someone [from a] disadvantaged background like myself. Despite having played at provincial level in school, I couldn't play private tournaments for SAJCC (South African Junior Chess Championships) because I did not have the money to play at trials.

So, one of my initiatives is to raise awareness and for kids like me to be given a chance, not to be defined by money, but by their strengths. In terms of my journey, I was discovered in the street by an acquaintance who knew me as that smart boy eKasi (township).

I was 13-years-old and in grade 8 at the time. My then-acquaintance, Calvin, introduced me to my eventual tutor, Tosh, with whom he’d been playing chess. The latter asked me questions to test my Intellect; my responses impressed him ... and this spurred him on to believe I was fit for chess and I was invited to [a local] academy the next day.

I went there and he taught me the game and that's when the love for it started. I’ve achieved a few things since and this is all thanks to ‘The Law of Attraction’.

WS: A popular chess myth is that ‘it takes a genius to win at the game’. This can’t possibly be true, can it?

I don’t believe in magic people — we are born not knowing and everything we know today we learned. To account for the winner in chess, it is because they [challenger] might know a trick that the opponent doesn’t.

In other words, they may have learned something that the other may have not. Chess is a game of error. If it wasn’t for error there would not be a winner.

The one that wins is the one that makes less errors and is be able to punish that of the opponent. Risk management is important and one can learn this to reduce error, which comes with practice.

WS: For the novice, what is the most important piece and why? How can it be used to gain an advantage in real game situations?

KM: One would say it’s the queen and this is because it has more points and can move like any other piece. The most undermined piece is the pawn and can only move a few steps.

What we can learn here is we might be seen as weak or disadvantaged but if we stand together and are connected, we can conquer. The other thing about a pawn is that once it reaches the last rank, it can crown (become a queen or knight) thus becoming [a more powerful piece].

WS: Can these people aspire to one day become the Bobby Fischers and Magnus Carlsens of the world?

KM: Definitely! People who learn chess want to become something bigger, i.e., they want to become grandmasters. The moment they’ve learned chess they, of course, begin to have such aspirations. Chess is interesting and you almost always find the need to become better at your game.

WS: On your own lessons playing the two-player board game, what has it taught you?

KM: Chess has taught me patience and to not allow emotions to take over but to always think. Sometimes in a game against an opponent, I trigger their emotions to see how balanced they are and if they can remain calm.

Chess has taught me not to overreact emotionally in certain situations and to always stay calm. It has taught many things, including, studying people and how people think, which is very crucial in the game.

Observing an individual’s character during a game has taught me to preempt the style of play to anticipate, among other things.

FNB Varsity Cup 2021 get the green light!

2 March 2021 -

The 2021 FNB Varsity Cup Rugby will proceed in 3 bio-bubble's in Pretoria.

The Witsies will open their campaign against fellow potensial 2020 semi-finalist Tuks, UCT and Maties in the first week of the campaign. The dates for the three bubble's will be 4- 11 April 2021, 22 - 30 April 2021 and 10 -16 May 2021. No spectators will be allowed at any of the matches. Tuks Stadium and Loftus Versfeld will be used as playing venues.

Complete Fixture List - FNB Varsity Cup Fixtures 2021

SA Olympic berths beckon for six current and ex-Witsies

3 March 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

The South Africa Olympic Men’s and Women’s Hockey Squads are gearing up for the highly-anticipated Summer Olympics, whose staging organisers have given the green light, after it was previously postponed for 12 months due to the coronavirus pandemic last year.

The global sporting showpiece is set take place from 23 July to 8 August 2021 in Tokyo, Japan, and includes at least six current and former players within the ranks of the Wits first team men’s and women’s sides.

Chad Futcher and Thabang Modise, make it as the only former Wits hockey players - while Cody van Wyk and Rusten Abrahams make it as the only current Wits Hockey Players. They will form part of the senior men’s national team training camp, which was named at the conclusion of the Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPT) in 2019, with Rusten Abrahams — who along with Futcher has a test match for the team under their belt.

Cody Van Wyk in Action

Two former Wits women hockey aces, Nomnikelo Veto and Robyn Johnson, will attempt to hoist the nation’s flag high as they vie for a place in the final SA National Women’s Outdoor team. The format for the 2020 spectacle will see 12 countries apiece competing in the men’s and women’s competitions.

This includes Japan, who as hosts, qualify automatically; the four continental trophy winners; and seven teams from the 2019 FIH Olympic Qualifiers. Wits 1st team men’s hockey coach, Garreth Ewing, credited the institution’s sterling hockey programme for the upward momentum of the Wits players at provincial and national level.

“The upward curve of Wits hockey is clear for all to see, not just in terms of results, but also in seeing more Wits players in representative teams at provincial and national level,” Ewing told Wits Sport.

“This hasn’t been an overnight success, it’s been built up over a few years now, and current Wits staff, including Ricky West (Wits men’s hockey coach), have been instrumental in the development of this player group.”

Noting the selection of the four men’s players, the coach said: “All four were good players before they joined Wits, but it’s a credit to the University’s hockey programme that they have continued to grow and become athletes worthy of national team selection.”

While the call-up to the national senior men’s squad is a first for van Wyk, a potent midfielder for the Senior Southern Gauteng Men’s Team, he was previously a member of the U21 national squad, and at one age group lower, formed part of the Youth Olympic Games U18 Fives National Team that competed in Nanjing, China in 2014.

“It was always a goal of mine to reach the top level at some point and being in the squad is definitely a step in the right direction,” said van Wyk. “We’ve had to remain disciplined and consistent in taking up training at home — with each member of the squad aiming to be selected for the final team of 16,” he added.

Johnson said her own preparations were on track as she observes a stringent cocktail of tried and tested methods. “It’s really important to eat well, sleep well and balance sessions out so that you are always performing at an optimal level,” she said.

“It’s about having the discipline to focus on the small details because the small percentages are what make the difference. But it is also important to be human sometimes; in the sense of taking time away from the field to do something other than just playing hockey.”

Veto, when asked how she received the news of her selection to the SA Olympic squad, said she remains focused on the goal of making the final team. “I was super excited to be in the squad. Obviously still nervous because the girls are really good [but] it’s all about working hard and trying to make the team.”

Nomnikelo Veto in action

Wits FC targeting good start to ABC Motsepe League

5 March 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits University FC will have its work cut out when tackling Vaal outfit FC RESA in their first game of the new season in the ABC Motsepe League at the weekend. This is according to head coach, Alzavian van Rheede, as the club prepares to get off the starting blocks in the Second Division competition.

On paper, the bookies might favour the might of Wits against their opponents though the calibre of the opposition warrants closer inspection. RESA boasts at least eight Jomo Cosmos on-loan players in addition to several faces who sport the colours of Kaizer Chiefs Reserves in the MultiChoice Diski Challenge.

A calling card for the Johannesburg side to negate any potential threat that will come in the form of the former PSL (now DStv Premiership) centre-forward, Nicholas Mynhardt, who is among the latest players to join the ranks at Wits. He is expected to be a potent component of the strike force having been blooded by Kaizer Chiefs at the highest level on the domestic football circuit.

“It will take time to blend him into the way we play and that goes for all the other new faces,” said van Rheede of the new man in. “He has impressed me and my coaching staff with his amazing attitude and work rate. His talent is unquestionably up there with the best in SA football and I'm not surprised that he played in the PSL before.”

Following the game in the Vaal in a group many are calling the stream of death, with the other sides comprising AJ United; Highlands Park; Dube Continental; NWU Vaal; Pele Pele FC; Maholosiane and Alexandra Black Aces, alongside FC RESA and Wits, the latter will do well to manage the pace of the game, with and without the ball, if they are to pick up early points.

Team manager Sanele Nene said a competitive campaign here will see the team on their way as they also look to challenge for the year’s Varsity Football and USSA Club Championships on the University football front.

He said preparations for the league have gone to plan thanks, in part, to the friendly matches the team have run out for. “Things have gone fairly well and we had some good tough competition in the preparation period,” said Nene. “The boys are in a relaxed and focused state as we have kept our environment pretty much the same so as to not add any undue pressure on the boys.

“There is a lot of familiar faces, so, it was not that difficult to work on combinations and allow the team to gel. In terms of how we will ensure that we are title contenders, the aim for us is to take it one game at a time and prepare thoroughly for each game.”

Nene added: “We don’t want to put too much pressure on the boys in terms of looking too far ahead and the aim now is to just respect each game as it comes.” In terms of the constraints presented by Covid-19 on the team, a handful of positive cases were picked up but nothing to wholly disrupt the momentum inside the camp.

“The guys were quickly isolated and are back in contention. There are obviously extra measures in terms of compliance but we have a compliance officer who does that for us,” said Nene. Kick-off is 3 p.m. at the George Thabe Stadium in Sharpeville, Vereeniging on Saturday, 6 March.

Wits University Football Club Players 

Left to right: Kgwadi Molepo, Matthew Welgemoed, Sabelo Tsambo, Kal Laing, Ntandowenhle Mvubu, Saluleko Mathonsi, Benjamin Melamdowitz and Ashley Sibisi

FNB Varsity Cup is back with a bang!

10 March 2021 - Varsity Cup

South Africa’s biggest varsity rugby tournament is back and will feature some exciting changes.The 2021 edition of the FNB Varsity Cup will be played in a secure bio-bubble at the University of Pretoria from 4 April to 24 May and for the first time include comprehensive broadcast coverage of FNB Varsity Shield matches too.

The FNB Varsity Cup is set to alternate with the FNB Varsity Shield during this 51-day period, with all 17 teams staying at the FNB Varsity Cup Village. Teams will leave and return to the Village between bubbles.

Both the FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield will adhere to SA Rugby’s Covid-19 protocols, with players and management being tested regularly. Weekly testing will also be done during the four-week period leading up to the tournaments.

“It’s been a long and hard journey to this point, but we’re finally going to see the best in young rugby talent again,” says Xhanti-Lomzi Nesi, Varsity Cup Tournament Manager. “We might not be able to have in-stadium attendance, but we have a feast of rugby planned on SuperSport and a couple of surprises for fans. Varsity Cup has always been about innovation, pushing the boundaries and changing lives of those who form part of it. In 2021, we’re going to take this to the next level.”

The nine rounds of the FNB Varsity Cup league stage will be split into three bubbles of three rounds each. After rounds three and six, FNB Varsity Cup teams will leave the Village as FNB Varsity Shield teams arrive. The FNB Varsity Shield is set to take place across two bubbles.

Matches will be played at Tuks Stadium, the Tuks B-Field and at Loftus Versfeld (a mere 4km away) on Mondays, Thursdays, Sundays and public holidays.

As always, the top four teams on the FNB Varsity Cup log will qualify for the semi-finals, which will be played on 21 May, followed by the final on 24 May. The top two teams on the FNB Varsity Shield log will contest the final on 9 May.

SuperSport will broadcast 34 of the 48 FNB Varsity Cup matches live and – for the first time ever – all 22 FNB Varsity Shield fixtures.

After last year’s FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield tournaments were cut short by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Varsity Cup Board opted to promote the FNB Madibaz to the FNB Varsity Cup as they had already secured enough points on the combined 2019-2020 FNB Varsity Shield log. And with no team being relegated from the FNB Varsity Cup in 2020, there will be 10 participants in the 2021 tournament.

The FNB Varsity Shield will still have seven teams in 2021 after University Sports South Africa (USSA) nominated Durban University of Technology (DUT) to join the tournament. FNB DUT will make their debut against FNB WSU in the first match of the FNB Varsity Shield at Loftus Versfeld on 12 April.

There will be no promotion or relegation after the 2021 season. Instead, the bottom two teams on the combined 2021-2022 FNB Varsity Cup log will be relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield, while the last-placed team on the combined 2021-2022 FNB Varsity Shield log will fall out of the tournament. From the 2023 season, there will be eight teams in the Cup and eight in the Shield.

No changes have been made to the rules and regulations for the 2021 season. FNB Varsity Cup teams will still be able to score a seven-point try originating from their own half, while Cup and Shield teams are allowed to replace a red-carded player with a substitute after 15 minutes. In the FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals and final, captains and coaches can use a white card to review a referee’s decision, with each team allowed one review per half.

The FNB Varsity Cup’s eligibility rules also remain the same, with players requiring 60 academic credits from 2020 to be able to play in 2021.

For all the FNB Varsity Cup fixtures, please go to www.varsitycup.co.za

Wits Rugby at the 2020 Varsity Cup

Wandisile Simelane scoops SA Rugby Young Player of the Year prize

15 March 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Making the odds and once again writing a special chapter in the annals of South African rugby, former Wits 1st team and current Lions player Wandisile Simelane walked away as the SA Rugby Young Player of the Year at the 2020 SA Rugby Awards held on 3 March.

The former Jeppe High School for Boys centre/ wing warded off stiff competition from Curwin Bosch, Stedman Gans, Ruan Nortje and Dylan Richardson on the way to being named the recipient of the year’s prestigious prize.

Undeniably, the honour goes down as the biggest feather in the cap for the 22-year-old, and is arguably the most enviable present ahead of his birthday celebration later this month. “It’s a definite highlight,” Simelane told Wits Sport in an exclusive interview.

“It’s always good when people notice the hard work and dedication we, as players, put in week in and week out. The feeling has sunk in but I’m quickly letting go as I am preparing for the next competition with the Lions.”

His mercurial rise from SA Schools rugby to Varsity Rugby and now provincial and junior national team contention pays tribute to a stealthy yet simplistic humble naturedness. Hugo van As, who heads the exceptional rugby programme at Wits University, from which the star power of Simelane and many others have emerged, echoed this sentiment.

“The first time we met and saw Wandisile playing was for Jeppe Boys and, obviously, we knew he was very talented and that there was a bright future laying ahead of him as soon as he left school,” said van As.

“In the time he spent playing Varsity Cup for Wits, all the expectations we had of him were confirmed. For me, looking at where he was then and where he is today, I think it is just about experience.

“His experience playing at high level will grow and he will become an even better player the more time he spends in senior rugby [and so on]. His success is a demonstration of what we dream about at Wits Rugby, and that is finding that balance between being a professional sportsman but also being able to study.”

The latter is not lost on Simelane as he said he hopes for the up and coming generation of players to challenge themselves while paying mind to their own absolute potential. “It’s just the willingness to always learn from people around you and to keep on working hard,” he said.

“Never thinking you know too much and that you’ve trained enough. Staying grounded and working hard has always worked for me. To the younger generation: ‘Challenge your limits, don’t limit the challenges. Keep working hard and believe in the abilities that God has blessed you with.’

Wandisile Simelane in the 2017 Varsity Cup campaign

Q&A with Wits Tang Soo Do’s Nasiphi Mkatshane

17 March 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

A raging fire deep inside the bowels of Wits Alchemy Dojang in Braamfontein has unleashed a scorching heat derived from the ember of the wooden pillars holding up the rigid structure of the University’s Tang Soo Do (TSD) club.

Final-year Pharmacy student, Nasiphi Mkatshane, as one part of the TSD force which graces the passages of Wits University, has come to possess this same fire in her belly after taking up the sport a little over two years ago as a fresh-faced sophomore who packed only a semblance of the confidence which she now carries.

Her burning passion has since drawn notice from even the master himself, and given rise to a fiery praise. “I met Nasiphi two years ago when she joined Wits Tang Soo Do. What has stood her in good stead is her determination and grit,” said Wits TSD instructor, Master Gregory Hart, 7th Dan Tang Soo Do and 2nd Dan Haedong Kumdo.

“Tang Soo Do at Wits is physically demanding and the members work hard; and are encouraged to be fit and strong.

“Nasiphi has had to work hard to get her fitness up and has done this by being very consistent in her attendance and adding extra workouts at home. She also has a positive outlook and a ready smile, even when the training is tough.”

Anything but the shy and timid then-20-year-old who strode out onto the martial arts mat for the first time, Mkatshane sat down with Wits Sport to briefly discuss her TSD pursuits and how she one day hopes to give back to the sport, which has seen her on her way in some style.

WS: When did you first develop an interest in the sport?

NM: I knew I was interested in martial arts in my first-year when I heard from a second-year student that Wits has martial arts clubs. However, my problem was my weight; so, I thought that since I am a big girl and had never participated in a sport before, that I could never do it.

It was [not] until I spoke to someone else, who is in TSD, when I was in my second-year that I was convinced that I could do it. He told me that some people in TSD weigh the same as me and some even bigger. I attended one of their training sessions and enjoyed it so much that I decided to join.

WS: Any notable misconceptions about Tang Soo Do that are out there?

NM: The main misconception is that weight matters. Now I know that dedication is more important — where you are willing to try repeatedly.

WS: What do you enjoy most about this form of martial arts?

NM: I enjoy learning new kicks, forms and techniques. I also love the military part of the sport; how it teaches us respect, authority, teamwork and discipline. And from TSD, I learnt a lot of self-defense techniques which I think are very important.

I also love the club because our members are supportive. I, honestly, doubt that I would have continued with the sport if I did not have people around me who were willing to cheer me on until I was able to do some techniques that took forever to learn.

WS: How do you see yourself one day giving back?

NM: I want to be a TSD Master so that I can make a club where I come from, a rural area in a small town. A club that will give its members the same amount of support that I got and is willing to go the extra mile.

I also think that martial arts clubs are important in small towns, especially since there is so much violence but little response to help people.

Nasiphi Mkatshane getting her Half Blue Colours at the 2020 Wits Sports Awards

Sasol Women’s League readies for new season with Wits Ladies eyeing contention

23 March 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits’ Smiling Assassins are gearing up for an all-out assault on the 2021 football season once the Sasol Women’s League makes its anticipated return in April.

Only three games had been played in the previous run of the league before the brakes were put on proceedings in March, last year, due to then-growing coronavirus concerns, with the country subsequently going into a hard lockdown.

But with the easing on Covid-19 restrictions, down to the current alert level 1, organisers have resolved to draw the curtain open on the season after the initial February start was pushed back further to allow most Universities to finish exams.

Before the decision to scrap the 2020 league campaign, Wits Ladies FC sat pretty in fifth on the log after bagging two wins and one defeat in their three outings. The side has since upped the ante by closing out a series of friendly matches as they look to stamp early authority on the latest season when the ball finally gets rolling.

Thapelo Mokobane, Wits Ladies FC manager, said her team would get additional matches under the belt before kick-starting their campaign. “The team has been preparing very well for the season ahead with four friendly matches played in preparation of the league,” said Mokobane. 

“The team played against United Ladies, Diepkloof Ladies, Mitos Stars and Juventus Ladies. Of the four matches, the ladies have done well in winning three with a loss only to Diepkloof Ladies. We will play a few more friendlies in further preparation.”

Head coach, Nthabeleng Modiko, has noted how the stop and go nature of the year that was, presented a difficult mountain to climb for her and her troops, but that the team have been working hard to get ready while getting acquainted to the new normal. 

“A good chunk of our previous squad is still around, so, there isn’t too many players that we still need to take through procedures and trying to show them how we do things at the University,” explained Modiko.

“So far, with the four friendly games that we’ve played, we’ve faced multi-faceted teams to try and challenge ourselves in various forms. Last season was our first league outing and I think some of the take-aways was the intensity of the competition, which showed that we really were newbies in the league. 

“While we were able to get favourable results in some of the games, in others, nerves got the best of the players because we didn’t have the experience, as a team, in terms of how to manage those games.”

A few key strategies will be the wind in the sail if Wits are to soar high while attempting to make their presence felt alongside the more seasoned clubs of the Sasol Women’s League. The nerves of the team’s maiden run will also have to be a thing best left in the past, not only to win games, but to put in a strong challenge for the title.

To ensure a successful run ahead, Modiko said team organisation will be her first order of business. “We made a lot of mistakes in the previous season; we conceded a lot of goals even though we were good in attack, which we will continue to be,” said the coach admittedly.

“We will ensure that we work very hard with our defence coach to ensure that all goes well in terms of stopping the goals. We’ve learned a lot from the previous campaign, where things such as the experience of the players, getting the team to work better, and individualism, worked against us.”

Tactically, Wits are feeling confident of the potency of their strike force, the creativity of the the middle field as well as backline strength. Junior national team player, Shakeerah Jacobs, who has a brick and mortar effect on the team in addition to being a striker par excellence, is one such player who will be looked at as an enforcer.

The recruitment of several experienced players such as Zinise Norris, a versatile and explosive right-wing back formerly of Tuks; the ex-UJ and Soweto Fabulous midfield ace, Nolwazi Mathebula; and Bundua Banda and Lerato Chabalala, both strikers who possess pace and creativity, is also set to bolster the Wits Ladies’ charge.

Jacobs said an air of optimism can be felt within the playing group as the belief they can go all the way in the league takes hold. Commenting on her own form, the lanky forward said she hopes to replicate the goods produced in the team’s recent unofficial games.

“We are working hard as a team and we believe that we can go all way this season. We have painted a picture of the team with a winning mentality and a will to work hard. I hope to lead from the front and continue my form from our recent friendlies.

“I have been improving physically and mentally and that has contributed to my form on the pitch. I have been supplying [my teammates] with more assists and I have been scoring and I’d like to continue this form into the league,” said Jacobs.

Shakeerah Jacobs

Wits four in need of sponsorship for Paris chess showing

28 April 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Four chess players from the Wits Chess Club (WCC) are hoping to represent Wits University in the upcoming World University Team Chess Championship at the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris in France.

The tournament is scheduled to take place from 27 to 31 July 2021 as the European country readies to lift travel restrictions and ease a nationwide curfew at the start of May after experiencing a turbulent period dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, according to reports.

The event, which consists of two open competitions — rapid team and blitz team — is touted to be one of the biggest sporting and cultural events of the year with hundreds of students from the world’s foremost Universities and schools expected to descend on the stoney shores of the French capital.

Chairperson of WCC Tumelo Ranoto, who is fresh from participating in FIDE’s World University Online Chess Championships hosted by the University of Texas, said the institution’s chess club has made significant strides to increase its profile through the unwavering determination of its members.

The third-year BSc in Mathematics and Physics student said the group’s participation in Paris will be an important step towards Wits’ continued passage of excellence in this and other areas.

“The global tournament involves top players from around the world and [offers the perfect] opportunity for Wits chess players to get exposed and be able to develop confidence, overcome fear and stay motivated when playing at international competitions,” said Ranoto.

Second-year Mining Engineering student, Koketso Mathebe, who along with Angela Nkosi and Lunga Fulumeni, is also adding his weight behind the campaign to raise a total sum of R71 000 for the team to participate at the tournament. The funds will go towards financing the group’s flights, accommodation, meals and registration.

Describing the fundraising efforts the chess club have embarked on, Mathebe said it intends on creating an online donation platform. “Also, the sports office has been helpful by organizing radio interviews and publishing posts on various social media platforms,” Mathebe explained.

“Chess is everything to me. I want to play chess professionally and it all can begin with this tournament since chess in South Africa is not yet that developed. With this opportunity, my dream of [one day] becoming a chess grandmaster can be possible.”

Tebogo Rabothata, a sports officer at Wits Sport, said invitations to international tournaments such as this demonstrates the quality of the institution’s chess programme. “This is the second time since I have been managing Wits Chess that our students have been invited to represent the club internationally and its speaks volumes of the quality of players we have.

“I’m quiet sure that everyone associated with Wits or the Wits community will be proud to see our students representing the institution at such a high profile event. This will encourage other students, not only from Wits Chess, to improve and to have that desire to get this kind of achievement,” said Rabothata.

 Wits Chess Players: Koketso Mathebe, Angela Nkosi, Tumelo Ranoto and  Lunga Fulumeni

Blues back to winning ways

29 April 2021 - Suparugby

A brilliant performance with the foundation laid by the pack showed why Wits were one of the early tournament favorites.

MasterCard Pirates Women’s Grand Challenge returns

5 May 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

The MasterCard Pirates Women’s Grand Challenge makes a scheduled return to play on 8 May with the Wits Rugby Women vying for a solid showing in their debut campaign.

Founded in 2019, the new kids on the block heralded a historic chapter for women’s participation in rugby at the University when they appeared in the USSA 7’s and subsequent Golden Lions 7’s Tournament, before the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the 2020 season on the way to rendering it null and void.

But armed with the resolve of experienced campaigners, the newbies have no plans of playing second fiddle when they navigate the women’s game in their first-ever Grand Challenge.

Describing what an ideal campaign would be for the still wet behind the ears Wits Rugby Women here, the team’s manager, Amanda Dukada, said striving to win their games and also having fun while at it will be first prize.

“To win at least four or five of our league fixtures.

To make the girls show unity as a team and to go out and have fun. We are still new but the desire to play is there ...

“[Also] we are far behind the other teams but with everyone’s willingness and desire to learn and play this beautiful game, we can make a success of the season,” explained Dukada.

“In 2019, we were still very much new to this game of rugby and our numbers were fewer. The timeframes before the two tournaments we played in were quite short and we didn’t really have the time to prepare well.

“I think we will be a much stronger outfit come 8 May when we play our first league game but results are definitely not our main focus. Our focus is to develop a healthy, determined and disciplined team that will have a never say die attitude.”

Commenting on his side’s preparations, the team’s coach, Marius Adams, lamented the bevy of challenges the plucky group of novices have had to contend with but said their grit and determination remained absolute.

“It’s been tough as first phase of return to rugby was all about fitness and strength and conditioning exercises. We all had to adapt to the Covid restrictions at training,” said Adams.

Coach Marius Adams

“It was an unusual return for us under the conditions because normally, at this point, we would have already had a couple of warm-up games behind us. However, the spirit in the team is exceptionally high despite all the challenges.

“We lost players and valuable training time to enhance skills. Our playes are still very rusty, which is expected ... [However] we are in a rebuilding and development stage as it is a new group.

“Our focus will largely be to ease ourselves into the league — keeping to the structures and slowly building on our strategy and gameplan as the season progresses. The well-being of our players will be of utmost importance.”

In terms of personnel, Adams said a full complement to go on was available. He hopes the game situations his players will be cast into will enhance their confidence as the side moves forward in the competition.

“I’m very happy with our training sessions, so far. The true test will, obviously, be when we play in game situations. I’m confident each player has the ability to give their best and to play together as a team.

“We will continue to work hard on our fitness, strength and skill levels during our training sessions. Our culture is: ‘No negativity, it’s all about the team’. More importantly, if we stick to our game plans, the rest will undoubtedly follow.”

Chardele Williamson, who captains and plays prop for the Wits women, said the goals are clear as the institution aims to punch above its weight despite their newbies status.

“We want to improve on our current skill set and learn as much as possible about the game, from not only our coaching team, but also the well-established teams we will be playing against.

“As we are a relatively new team and sport at Wits, with many in-experienced players, progress and learning is top of the list for us,” said the skipper.

Right wing, Thato Thema, described wearing the Wits colours in the MasterCard Pirates Women’s Grand Challenge as “an honour”. “This is mostly because I did not think I would be able to play competitively after I shattered my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial meniscus in 2015.

“More so, I love the team we are about to be. We have put in the hours and I am looking forward to wearing the Wits colours with my team ... We are a diverse group that is still learning to play with each other,” said Thema.

Wits Women's Rugby Team at training

Relentless Wits to good for UWC

24 May 2021 - Dan Lombard

FNB Wits ended FNB UWC’s semi-final hopes with a convincing win at the Tuks B-Field

Udubs came into this match full of confidence after thrashing FNB CUT, but two matches in four days appeared to take its toll as FNB Wits claimed just their second win of the campaign.

FNB Wits settled after a choppy opening 10 minutes as flank Mark Snyman forced his way over the line to score a converted try. Yet it would be rough seas for several more minutes and only after Udubs lost fullback Gilroy Lee Philander to a yellow card that the men in royal blue would bother the scoreboard again.

The wait proved to be worth it as a cheeky kick from the base of the ruck by scrumhalf Hlumelo Ndudala was hunted down by replacement utility back Siyabonga Xulu. Flyhalf Keagan Lailvaux added the extras. 

With immense intent and direction, FNB Wits made it difficult for Udubs to put together any meaningful phases of play and quickly discovered that their attack was more often than not being converted into defence by their opponents. 

This was demonstrated when FNB Wits hooker Dameon Venter and No 8 Lindokuhle Ncusane scored tries, with Lailvaux converting the latter to rack a commanding 26-0 half-time lead. 

Udubs finally got a reward for their efforts when flyhalf Ethan Diston slotted a penalty but this did little to dent the metal chassis of the Wits-mobile as fullback Setshaba Mokoena rounded off a sizzling point-of-origin try.

Yet another lull in play, with tempo set barely above undercooked, was finally broken as Ncusane floated over untouched to score.

Udubs did finish the match with a try when wing Lungi Msenge ran a deft line and replacement hooker Johan Lamprecht kicked the conversion. 

FNB Player That Rocks: Mark Snyman (FNB Wits)

FNB Wits – Tries: Mark Snyman, Siyabonga Xulu, Dameon Venter, Lindokuhle Ncusane (2), Setshaba Mokoena (1×7). Conversions: Keagan Lailvaux (4).
FNB UWC – Try: Lungi Msenge. Conversion: Johan Lamprecht. Penalty: Ethan Diston.

Wits Sport partners with The Central Gauteng Lions to host the Sunfoil u13 Township Cricket

21 May 2021 - Sharmin Naidoo

The Wits University Cricket Club and Wits Sport are proud to partner with the Central Gauteng Lions and Sunfoil to host the Sunfoil u13 Township Cricket Night Series from 21-23 May 2021 on the Walter Milton Cricket Oval. Covid-19 has certainly halted the massive strides made by these important cricket stakeholders to transform the game. The series will follow all the necessary protocols to ensure the safety and health of all involved during this pandemic. The 7^th edition of this series will bring together previously disadvantaged cricketers from seven Gauteng cricket hub teams. The series will also include one girls invitational team that will also compete with the boys. The project is headed up by Gary Moos (CGL Schools Co-ordinator), Reuban Mandlazi (CGL Cricket Services Manager) and the rest of the CGL Cricket Services Team. 

“The Sunfoil development cricket program has been extremely vital in transforming cricket all over South Africa in recent years. This year they are assisted by BAS Cricket, The Department of Sports and Recreation, Cricket South Africa and Wits University to make this event as special as possible for these future stars. Wits Sport and the Wits University Cricket Club have always been committed to the transformation and the development of cricketers in South Africa and we are extremely proud to be partnering with the CGL to give these young cricketers an opportunity to showcase their skills and enjoy the game they love to play. We hope to see many Lions Cricketers, Protea Cricketers and most importantly university graduates come out of these programs.” Sharmin Naidoo, Head of Cricket, Wits University.

Wits University Cricket Clubs meteoric rise into Central Gauteng Lions Cricket Premier League

25 May 2021 - Sharmin Naidoo

The Wits University Cricket Club has finished the 2020/21 CGL Premier League Cricket season in 3^rd place beating the University of Johannesburg in the 3^rd/4^th Place playoff in what was an incredible local derby with Wits beating their local rivals in the 50 over competition for the first time in 27 years.

“The rise of the Wits University Cricket Club in the CGL Cricket Premier League has been nothing short of phenomenal given the time frame in which it has happened. I arrived at Wits in August 2018 with the aim of creating a formula for the cricket club to reach new heights. The University’s first team was consistently finishing mid table in the CGL Premier B League and participating in the USSA Cricket B Section. Together with the support of former head coach, Garnet Kruger, and current head coach, Bongani Ntini, we set out to get the team back into the CGL Premier A League and the USSA Cricket A Section. The initial plan was simple. We wanted to control the things we could control first. Ensuring we played and trained on top class facilities, enhancing our high performance training program which included an organised strength and conditioning component, we began to instil important traditional cricket and team values, we endeavoured to recruit the best possible student athletes and human beings into the system and we made sure we looked good on and off the field. It wasn’t easy but all the hard work in year one meant we managed to get promoted to the CGL Prem A League within our first year of the transformation process. We then finished our first season in the CGL Prem A League (2019/2020) in 5th place (out of 12 teams) which was an incredible feat with a new look Wits Cricket 1^st XI which included many new first year students. The team also reached the final of the 2019 USSA Cricket B Section Tournament but the match vs Kovsies was unfortunately rained out in a week of heavy rainfall in Johannesburg. The cricket season 2020/21 started off with a close loss to Jeppe Quondam Cricket Club (eventual 2020/21 league winners) but saw the club reach its best ever finish in 27 years and going unbeaten for the rest of the season.” Sharmin Naidoo, Head of Cricket, Wits University.

“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic our cricket season was shorter than normal but that didn't take away the excitement from being back to playing again. This season also saw an additional Wits team join the CGL SU4 league. They finished top of their group and narrowly lost in the league final. The rest of our teams play in the CGL Premier league A (1^st team which finished 3^rd), CGL President League A (2^nd team) who lost in the finals and our CGL SU2 (3rd team) who finished 4th. 

The management staff have been superb working behind the scenes. Smooth operations, recruitment and meeting the day to day needs of players and staff for me was the key to our success. The players also bought into the new structure and philosophy of doing things.

Our goal going into the new season will be on making sure we retain players, making sure that everyone understands our process and are in line with what we looking to achieve, and recruit well. How we look and how we play has been a big part our success and would like to improve on this in the coming season as it tells a better story of who we are to the future Witsies. We are looking to win the CGL Premier A league this coming season and qualify for Varsity Cricket. Key players to look out for next season will be Sebastien De Oliveira, Juan Landsburg, Haydan Bowman, Connor Esterhuizen and Tetelo Maphaka.” Bongani Ntini – Wits Cricket Head Coach.

Recruiting the best personnel, setting realistic goals and training hard to achieve those goals are key to any successful organisation. The Wits University Cricket Club has certainly got the ball spinning in the right direction and the future looks bright on the Walter Milton Cricket Oval

All-rounder Landsberg cleans out at CGL Cricket Awards

4 June 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits star all-rounder Juan Landsberg swept up with three coveted individual prizes at the annual Central Gauteng Lions Cricket Awards held on 27 May.

The ceremony at the Imperial Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg was hosted virtually due to current coronavirus alert level two restrictions.

Landsberg bagged the Enza Premier League Bowler of the Season, Enza Premier League Batsman of the Season, and Enza Premier League Cricketer of the Season after a sensational season in which he scored 317 runs at an average of 79.80 with a high score of 158.

“The recognition from the union is truly great and humbling at the same time. I’ve got to thank Wits and my coach for the wonderful opportunity to play and dominate for the club,” said Landsberg, who racked up equally impressive bowling figures of 14 wickets with an economy rate of 3.7 runs per over and an average of 16 in six innings.

The lanky final-year public management postgraduate said he had no expectations of winning the individual accolades despite putting his best foot forward this season. “The emphasis of my season was to be the best in all aspects, to compete with myself, and outdo my own performances.

“The past cricket season helped me develop a lot more skills and mature a lot as a player. Also, age has helped me become more settled in what I’m trying to achieve on and off the cricket field,” added the 25-year-old right-arm leg spinner, who credited his outstanding performances on the pitch to his coaches.

“Two coaches have impacted my cricket a lot over the last year and, obviously, my dad, who always believed I would be the greatest of my generation. So, for as long as that lives with me I’ll keep on going!”

Juan Landsberg

2021 FNB Wits Varsity Cup Roundup

11 June 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

2021 FNB Wits Varsity Cup Roundup

A turbulent 2021 FNB Varsity Cup saw FNB Wits finish the season in eighth position on the combined log.

The team’s status as the kings of Jo’burg, however, remained intact following a 22-20 victory over cross-town rivals UJ in the seventh round, ensuring the much sought-after bragging rights for the next year.

The team's trio of Aidynn Cupido, Kevin du Randt and Setshaba Mokoena reflected on the campaign and shared their thoughts on the season and factors that may have affected their performance.

Aidynn Cupido, inside centre

The 2021 campaign was one with a lot of lessons and, in essence, disappointing considering that we had prepared to win, not only the games but the whole competition.

It was not at all what we had imagined, as we had set out a three-stage plan for success before the tournament but, unfortunately, we just weren't able to execute our plan for success.

It’s a tough one to deal with because we had everything we needed for success but that’s rugby; the ball does not always bounce your way. The team was prepared and focused and we put in the necessary hard yards.

It was, however, just one of those things where you can't always get what you want in life. Personally, I feel like we missed the Wits crowd during our games, it was one of our driving forces last year and helped us through some tough moments.

Aidynn Cupido of FNB Wits in action in the game against FNB Madibaz

Kevin du Randt, lock

The season presented many challenges in light of the current pandemic. We were privileged to be able to play sport and represent the University amid the then high coronavirus [alert] level.

I am not proud of the position in which we ended, as our intentions were to go all the way this year. So, it was not the sort of performance-based season we expected. However, I cannot doubt the commitment and effort shown from the players and coaching staff.

We really put in a lot of effort to equip ourselves with the best opportunity to do well, and that is why we are disappointed. In sport you get given opportunities and the people who utilise those best are usually the more successful.

We simply missed out on opportunities in the games we played. Personally, I gave my all for Wits, in playing and serving the team. I learned many lessons that I will take into the next phase of my life.

Kevin du Randt and Phillip Krause in action against FNB Maties

Setshaba Mokoena, fullback

Despite the season we had, having prepared well and with the players and processes in place to win the competition, it was impressive that the team didn’t give up.

We went to every bubble with a renewed and positive attitude and we were rewarded in the last bubble by winning the last two games of our campaign to end off with a bit of dignity to our name. I think the bubble environment was very tough, especially being student-athletes, we had to train, play, recover, and still study.

So, it was tough on the boys but, then again, all the Varsities were in the same position. There were a few hurdles along the road with the likes of Aidynn Cupido not being able to play in the first bubble along with Travis Gordon — both players who make a big difference to the side.

I don’t think we could have done anything differently; everything happens the way it’s supposed to and there is nothing we can do to change what has happened, except to learn and embrace our experiences.

Setshaba Mokoena of FNB Wits in action against FNB UWC

Wits buoyant after mid-table heroics in debut ABC Motsepe League

18 June 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits FC have closed out the 2021 ABC Motsepe League in fifth position after beating AJ United 2-0 at the Vosloorus Stadium in their final game of the season last month.

The Braamfontein outfit made their debut appearance in Gauteng’s second stream of the competition in March before registering a win in only their second match of the campaign, a 4-2 hammering of the same opposition.

In the end, five wins and seven draws for the club was enough to land Wits smack-bang in the middle of the table on 22 points, nine points adrift of eventual winners, Remember Elite Sports Academy FC.

“I am super proud of the players for their performances throughout the season and the character they continuously showed when we were going against all odds at times,” said an upbeat Phuthego Mokgethi, Wits FC’s football administrator, who sang his side’s praises following a relatively impressive debut campaign.

“I would also like to commend the entire technical team for their continuous hard work and consistency in ensuring the players performed to their utmost while also ensuring the chemistry was high throughout the season.”

Kal Laing, dubbed a modern-day center back due to his ability to create magic with the ball at his feet, experienced a season of two halves — characterised by “some good and bad patches”.

In spite of his varied performances, Laing said the team dynamic was not diminished as some valuable lessons were scored along the way. “The season was one of growth for the team as a whole. So, I guess we all experienced ups and downs.

“In my good patches, I played a key role in ensuring the team did not succumb to defeats even when it wasn’t our best day at the office.

“This was all done in unison with my teammates that I would rub off on with my dominant and winning personality,” declared the playmaker, who, as part of his defensive duties in the final third, takes on a deep-lying role to pick passes and play teammates in on goal from deeper areas.

When asked what some of the more valuable lessons picked up on as he went from one game to the next through the course of the season, Laing said it was that ‘the game is never quite over’.

“It was a hard pill to swallow since I learnt it the hard way by throwing away some big leads in games. But it was a good lesson in that, as a team, we learnt and grew from that and even in situations where we would be losing by a few goals, we would never stop fighting and could come back from deficits and win games.

“These are big lessons that we can take in to the upcoming tournaments that we are going to play in,” added Laing. “The highlight for this season was the team’s overall performance and show of character in their first season in the ABC Motsepe league.

“The lessons learnt and growth gained is the highlight of this season as it gives us hope and something to build on so that we can reach the goals we have set out for ourselves for the rest of the year, which is to have a solid showing in the Varsity Cup and win it.”

Echoing his teammate’s sentiments on the learning curve which was the campaign, skipper and midfielder Saluleko Mathonsi said not all his expectations were met. 

“Before the season started, I was looking at a team that was going into this league to compete, win games and be difficult to beat, and that's exactly how our season went even though we didn't win enough games,” said Mathonsi.

Critically, and from an individual perspective, the captain agreed it was not his best outing. He, however, hopes to ride on the crest of an improved player in the next one.

“Sure, it wasn't the best of me but it was a slight showing of the best that's yet to come. If there's one thing that stood out about my season, it is the desire to work very hard for my teammates and to make sure I encourage them to keep working until the final whistle.

“I also scored a couple of important goals which is something I always strive to achieve ... I just want to win trophies for this University.

“The players want to win trophies. Varsity Football is at the top of our list [but] my individual goals cannot be reached without ensuring that this team wins trophies; it's what I also want.”

Saluleko Mathonsi (Captain) in action in the ABC League

 Giovanni Idi in action in the ABC League

Zimbabwe women’s national team beckons Wits Rugby’s Tadiwanashe Kwete

1 July 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Zimbabwe Women Sables are looking for an industrious start to the 2021 Africa Cup Challenge as they romp up preparations ahead of the scheduled tournament, which takes place in Uganda from 11 to 19 July.

The southern African country has assembled a strong squad and have gathered in the capital, Harare, where a training camp has been organised.

The Women Sables closed out an important friendly warm-up series against fellow-continental contenders Zambia, recently, as the two countries fought it out in the curtain-raising ‘Battle of Zambezi’.

Not merely looking to make up the numbers at the upcoming tournament, the Women Sables has called up a number of emerging talents in the country and abroad, one of which is Tadiwanashe Kwete, a versatile prop/ hooker who plies her trade running out for the Wits University Women’s rugby first team.

The first-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) student is set to be an integral part of her home nation’s pursuit of glory on the African safari, with the 21-year-old every bit as intent on making a notable impression in national team colours.

“It’s an honour to be recognised and to get the call-up, especially being out of the country,” Kwete told Wits Sport. “I am elated by the call-up [although] I did not expect it … there is new blood coming in and showing off what they can do.

“I felt proud watching them play [in the series against Zambia] but now I am overly excited to be joining them in camp.” The invitation is a testament to hard work, which Kwete believes she was able to put in all throughout training, so far, this year.

The devastating player scores her second senior national team call-up; first featuring for Zimbabwe’s Under-20 side in 2019 in a bilateral series against South Africa before making her senior team debut against Zambia in Lusaka that same year.

“I am looking at bagging more caps and playing my best rugby. I am excited to be joining the ladies in camp and I know it is going be a very technical and clinical camp where we work through our processes,” added a focused Kwete.

“Having played for Wits and learning a few things here, I really want to use that to better my play while also imparting what I have learned here to them, and vice versa.

“At the end of the day, we all understand that it is an uphill task facing Uganda considering the fact that there hasn't been any rugby in Zimbabwe for close to two years now, because of the pandemic, but exciting times ahead.”

Wits Rugby’s Ferdinand Kelly said the rugby office couldn’t be prouder as Kwete’s beckoning on the continental stage demonstrates a sturdy women’s rugby programme at the institution.

Kelly lauded the strides made by the University to develop a high-performance women’s rugby programme in which female student-athletes can excel.

“We are immensely proud of Tadiwanashe’s achievement. It is purely a result of her commitment to the sport and the hard work she has put in ... Our women’s programme is a work in progress and we are gradually making quality strides in the right direction,” the sports officer conceded.

“Earlier this month, Sibongile Mdaki was invited to join the provincial Golden Lions Ladies team, and now, Tadiwanashe has been called up for national duty. The measure of any productive rugby programme is [its ability to] produce provincial or national team players,” he added.

“It is an indication that our coaches and management are doing something correctly and that the program is in good stead. However, it becomes immensely important to make athletes aware of their academic responsibility and to find the balance between sport and their studies.”

Wits Sport Safe Spaces

12 July 2021 -

With the rise of gender and queer based violence, rape culture, racism and the constant need for transformation within the sporting community, a safe space is needed to ensure that athletes can thrive in an environment that not only fosters their growth but also allows them to express themselves in their purest form.

Safe spaces, an initiative started by Wits International Relations student; Tayla Johnson (head of Gender and Equity at the Wits Sports Council) and the rest of the Wits Sports Council colleagues, provides a voice to all those within marginalized positions in the sporting community. This community is inclusive of those who partake in university sport as a whole but specifically emphasises the need for equality and diversity within High Performance (HP) sports. This generalized statement applies both to coaching staff, managers, and the Wits Sports office environment and most importantly to the athletes.

The initiative strives to open doors and conversations for athletes around all of these issues. It seeks to have in an increased social media presence of women and queer bodies on social media with content that speaks to their struggles, consideration of black athletes in every regard and specifically those who are black or part of the queer community.

Johnson speaks on some of her experiences; “as a person of colour and a woman, I have faced many difficulties in being an athlete. These may have been direct or indirect representations of social injustices but they have an effect on performance and confidence. I am aware that these issues extend everywhere and rage further beyond my grasp, however, it is important to raise the platform of equality and diversity within our sporting communites in order to create a healthy environment for all athletes; this is the aim of Safe Spaces. We wish to instill a firm knowledge on the effects that these social issues can have on athletes and pose solutions for coaching staff, as well as to provide a support system to all athletes.

In the hopes of hosting gender and transformation seminars for all clubs, specifically HP clubs, this initiative hopes to expand people’s knowledge on issues such as GBV, LGBTIQA+, rape culture, and racism and how these issues not only hinders an athlete’s performance but also infiltrates the dynamics of each club and its proceedings. In collaboration with the Wits Gender and Equity office (GEO; a holistic and integrated office that deals with all aspects of gender and sexual misconduct on campus. Offering its services to the Wits community at large). 

In addition to this, Safe Spaces will host conversations around building safer spaces for all who enjoy and compete in sport. 

 “No one should feel unsafe in a space where you are supposed to express yourself and sport is a form expression. Safe spaces hopes to build this and only make it easier for the athletes and coaching staff here at the University of the Witwatersrand and the entire sporting community at large. I hope to build this platform with a strong base in 2021 for future gender and equity leaders to expand on it. “– Tayla Johnson.

Any Wits community member who is facing hate crimes or violence is encouraged to reach out to the GEO or a Safe Zones ally.

Official Wits Sport X Wits Gender Equity Office (Wits GEO) Safe Spaces Logo

Designed by Robyn Johnson

WYC’s Michaela Robinson to chart epic journey for SA in Italy

5 August 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

Wits Yacht Club (WYC) vice-chairperson Michaela Robinson has been selected to represent South Africa at the upcoming global Marina Militare Nastro Rosa sailing event in Italy.

As a month-long celebration of the sport, the Nastro Rosa is held in eight stages at eight of the European country’s most splendid locations. The event is scheduled to be held from 27 August to 26 September.

Robinson, whose functional expertise ensured her the 2020 Wits Sportswoman of the Year crown, will navigate the open waters of the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic alongside Siyanda Vato, her sailing partner for the two-person mixed competitions of the tour.

Sailing on a high-performance foiling keelboat called a Figaro 3, the pair are in line to fly South Africa's flag high at the 2021 EUROSAF Double Handed Mixed Offshore European Championship and 2021 Hempel Offshore World Championship. 

“Being selected to represent one’s country is just about the highest honour an athlete can receive,” said Robinson, who is in the final year of an undergraduate accounting degree. “And being able to represent a country as unique and resilient as South Africa makes this all the more special.”

In a year where the Olympic Games are grabbing the spotlight as a global multisport event, Robinson said the sailing tour measures up as a worldwide spectacle for the open water sport. The duo will ensure the opportunity does not go to waste as they look to push themselves to the ultimate limit against some of the best sailors in the world.

“With sailing also an Olympic sport, it can seem that the proverbial playing field is a bit saturated. But this event is unlike any other.

“It is the intersection of human adventure and world-class competition. It is just you and your sailing partner in a round-the-clock pursuit of a competitive edge … We will push ourselves to our utmost limits to make sure this opportunity doesn’t go to waste,” added the 21-year-old.

Like in any sport, preparation will be a key part of Robinson and Vato’s global quest for success. The upcoming offshore race events comprise navigation from one stop location to another and will offer participants the ultimate test of their mental endurance, teamwork and perseverance.

A double world champion already, Robinson explained that the process of gearing up for the rigodurs of such a competition is varied with the playing field changing daily. “Preparation is always difficult [and] there are certain variables one can control,” she said.

“These are things like physical conditioning (fitness), preparation, etc., but that only gets you so far. A lot of the challenges you need to face as and when they come. The winner, at the end of the day, will be the person who can navigate through the challenges most effectively and efficiently.

“Siya and I will be sailing a boat we’ve never sailed before, in a place we’ve never sailed before and in a format we’ve never competed in. So, we’re what some would consider underdogs. That being said, we’re not going there to spectate, we’ll be there to compete. And I wouldn’t be surprised if some credible results followed,” added Robinson decisively.

The duo is funding the campaign privately with the help of their families but has also turned to crowdfunding for assistance. While Robinson is an accomplished sailor at a young age, Vato boasts a wealth of experience having competed in the 2020 Cape2Rio Yacht Race.

The 28-year-old also competes in the superyacht racing circuit in Europe. He is currently working on yachts and sailing professionally in South Africa after being introduced into high-level campaigns in South Africa and Europe in 2017. Vato also trained in Europe as a high-performance race navigator.

“The event is incredible; it is a two-person mixed gender yacht race where we sail all out for days on end. I feel extremely privileged to be sailing alongside Siya, he is an incredible sailor, and we make an even better team,” added Robinson.

“I am very excited to see how our campaign influences the sailing community and SA as a whole. We are two people from two different backgrounds, yet we still make an incredible team and our dreams are coming true.”

Back-a-buddy fundraiser link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/michaela-robinson

Wits triathlon star Dylan Kruger bags SA team call-up

12 August 2021 - Tshepiso Mametela

The 2021 World Triathlon Age-Group Championships Edmonton scheduled to take place from 17 to 22 August in Canada have suffered the same fate as all the events from 2020 after being cancelled due to Covid-19 concerns.

Travel restrictions from South Africa to other countries have compounded the participation of athletes despite the country moving away from the peak of the recent deadly third wave.

Wits University’s triathlon star Dylan Kruger, who was selected to represent South Africa in the Age Group Standard Distance team, was hopeful of the silver lining after the disappointment of not being able to make the UIPM 2021 Pentathlon and Laser Run World Championships in Cairo, Egypt in June.

During the season, Kruger participated in Laser Run leagues – a continuous shoot-run x 4 laps – and won the Gauteng Provincial Championships before turning out for the province at the 2019 South African Modern Pentathlon and Laser Run Championships.

Kruger won the SA Championships ahead of his selection to represent the country in Egypt but “due to travel uncertainties around Covid-19 and my academic commitments [at the time] I had to withdraw from the team.”

Reacting to the prospect, that was, of flying the nation’s flag high in Canada, Kruger said: “It was exciting just to be able to participate at SA Champs again, and an age group win made it that much better. It was an honour to receive the World Champs selection letter from Triathlon South Africa, and I was both proud and motivated to be able to represent my country.”

The student-athlete, for whom it was not his first national team call-up having been selected for global events on previous occasions, said he always looks to make the most of opportunities to give a good account of South Africa’s propensity to excel on the international stage.

“Every opportunity to race abroad is a new opportunity to learn and gain experience, both for myself and my sport. The racing conditions abroad are different, which present new challenges. The best you can do is prepare well, enjoy the experience and hope for the best,” said Kruger, who also lamented missing out on the chance to go to Egypt.

“It is always disappointing to withdraw from an opportunity, but things were too uncertain at the time with restrictions around travel, and the preparation for my third-year medical mid-year exams.”

Choosing to move away from the disappointment, the Witsie noted that not everything is a simple matter of spontaneity with some things calling for a fair amount of mental and physical preparation. This same fact is not lost on Kruger in terms of the rigours of the endurance multisport races he participates in.

“There is always an element of planning that goes into a race, but much like life, things don’t always go according to plan,” Kruger conceded. “For league races, my plan is just to have fun, test my training and finish. For bigger events, the plan is more intricate with route familiarisation and a plan for each leg of the race.”

When asked to choose between swimming, cycling or running – the three disciplines of the sport – the medicine student offered that he would much less be spoiled with the option to lean towards all three.

“My answer to that would vary, depending on the day you asked the question. Some days I lean more towards cycling but a week later swimming might takes preference. For me, it is always preferable to have the combination of events, as it makes the race more interesting,” he said.

With the year's 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Kruger said he thinks the platform is available for the sport to be a good advertisement unto itself. He added that lovers of the multisport races have plenty to look forward to.

Dylan Kruger - Finalist for the 2020 Wits Sportsman of the Year Award