As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates that will participate productively in the development of our region, country and the world. Sinamile Sithole, DUT Communication’s team member, recently engaged with the DUT hockey player Snethemba Myeni to share her student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Snethemba Myeni
Place of birth: Hluhluwe
Sport Code: Hockey
Position: Left wing
Qualification: Diagnostic Radiography
Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “I joined the DUT hockey team in 2023.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I used to always see the boy next door carrying his hockey stick after school from his practice so when we had an opportunity to pick a sport in grade one, I chose hockey.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “The wings must be one of the fastest players in the team with accurate aim as they are also responsible for scoring goals. A left wing in particular is also known as a left forward and is basically responsible for that section of the field.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Athletics, mainly long distance running because it is what I have always been good at throughout my primary and high school period.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “It was in the KZN team where I then completed with other provinces.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “I think it is vital for students to learn another set of skills as a coping mechanism from academics.”
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “My role model is Onthatile Zulu, a young, black female who is an excellent player in the South African hockey team. She inspires me a lot.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Honesty because it will always be the best policy in sports and academics.”
Q: Do you see a future in hockey?
A: “Yes, I do. I am in training to try out for the U21 South African team.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “It encourages all age groups to participate because this sports is for everyone. I also think that is attracts more black women and men because many of our race never had the opportunity to play such a sports in their school but now at DUT it’s open for anyone to play.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “It has made a huge impact. Hockey has taught me how to work in a team, it has taught me discipline and consistency. I have made many friends from hockey and I’ve had countless opportunities to travel out of the province just because of hockey.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “Hockey needs to be advertised more widely across social media networks and posters around campus. This would attract a a great number of people because many do not know much about the sport itself.”
Pictured: supplied
