The women’s rugby team at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) are called the warriors and they made a remarkable debut at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Rugby Champions, winning the Cup in Section C. The tournament, which was hosted in Grahamstown between 02 July to 04 July 2024, saw the impressive DUT Warriors overcoming an initial setback of two defeats. Rallying with determination, they triumphed in their last three games to secure the championship.

Coach Musa Mvelase expressed his elation, highlighting his unwavering faith in the team despite their first-time participation in the tournament.

“I never doubted the team I knew that when required they would always dig deep. Even in defeat, I have never been left with the feeling that they have let me down. The amount of time, effort and sacrifice by this group of players leading up to the tournament is the reason this result did not surprise me,’’ he said.

Mvelase also revealed that the players promised him a medal from the tournament and indeed they had kept their promise. “Before our departure, they promised me that they are not going to the championships for a holiday. They are going to compete and they wanted to come back with a medal, and they did just that,’’ stated Mvelase.

The Warriors captain Lindelwa Dladla (22) from Empangeni said that it was never easy and what set them apart was the hunger to win at all costs.

“It was a challenging experience that I enjoyed. Losing our first two games pushed us to win our last three games, which makes me a proud captain because the Warriors showed great character when they fought instead of giving up,’’ she said.

The captain lauded the coaches and the management team for facilitating everything and making sure that they were well-prepared for the tournament.

Tumi Mgudu, DUT Sports Officer also congratulated the Warriors for their massive win and for making DUT proud.

“We are enormously proud of the ladies, and it was their first entry. So, to achieve what they did is very impressive. It shows the hard work of the coaches, players, and the management. We are hoping that next year they continue where they left off and achieve more,’’ she said.

The formidable Warriors proved everyone wrong and affirmed their status as a force to be reckoned with in female rugby.

Pictured: DUT Female Rugby team at the USSA tournament with their cup medals.

Vukani Langa