In a thrilling showdown at the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, the DUT Warriors, the formidable women’s rugby team from the Durban University of Technology, won the recent Sure Women’s Cup beating local rivals UKZN. With a resounding score of 15-7, the DUT Warriors showcased their prowess on the field, securing a convincing win and affirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the rugby arena.

“Last season we finished second against all expectations. This season we want to improve as a group and hopefully that will lead us to higher honours. Our main focus is to improve and finish in the top 12 in this year’s USSA’s,” said coach, Archie Sehlako.

He also shared his excitement by saying that he is blessed to have such an amazing group of players who are exceeding his expectations.

The team captain: Nomusa May said that the team’s performance during the whole Sure Source Cup was exceptional. “During the semi-finals they gave 110% and left everything on that field which resulted in a successful win leading them to the finals. I can’t even describe the feeling, it’s one where I have had to pinch myself every time when someone calls me captain and shakes my hand. What makes it even more exciting is the team I get to work with and lead whilst on and off the field,” she replied.

May also shared that her biggest challenge was overcoming fear and getting out of her comfort zone.

“Working with the team and the coaches was easy for me because of how supportive and encouraging they have been throughout the matches,” she said.

Archie Sehlako, the coach of DUT Females Rugby mentioned that there are challenges expected when one is coaching a student team.

“As coaches our main aim is to improve each player and help them to realise their full potential. The most important thing is understanding that they are students first before rugby players,” said assistant coach of the DUT Females Rugby Bongumusa Mvelase.

For the USSA preparations the team will begin with a league, entailing a trip to Richard’s Bay, the Murray Cup in August and University Sport South Africa games in September this year.

Team captain, Nomusa said that she would like to thank the DUT community for their support and urged students to come join the sport as it is therapeutic and fun.

Pictured: The DUT women’s rugby team.

Sinethemba Njoko