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. S’bonelo Dlamini, DUT Communication’s team member, recently engaged with the DUT Football coach star, Mr Siphosenkosi Dlamini to share his student experience through sports and academics and how he lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Siphosenkosi Gift Dlamini
Place of birth: Nongoma in place called Osuthu1
Sport codes: Football
Occupation: DUT Goalkeeper coach
Q: When did you become part of the DUT sports?
A: “It was 2020 as a player in 2023 I became a goalkeeper coach.”
Q: What encouraged you sport to be part of the DUT?
A: “My passion of being a professional footballer and the fact that the DUT had the best team to help me achieve my goal.”
Q: In terms of the role you play as a football coach, kindly elaborate what is entails and how it benefits the players within your team?
A: “I focus on improving goalkeepers’ technical skills, such as handling, footwork, and positioning. I help goalkeepers understand the game and make informed decisions, such as when it comes to distributing the ball effectively. I work on the goalkeepers’ mental toughness, confidence, focus and helping them perform better under pressure.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Netball because they play with high intensity and we want our team to play with high intensity that is why I’m more interested in it.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “The USSA tournament and Varsity football. tournament.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “Sports development contributes to students’ physical, emotional, and social growth and in fostering well-rounded individuals.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “Andile Mavundla because I like his winning mentality and he is the man who does not like to lose.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Transparency because as a coach you need to be honest in each and every decision you take so that the environment is healthy.”
Q: Do you see a future as a Football coach?
A: “ Yes I do.”
Q: As a DUT star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “I serve as a role model, inspiring young people in the community to pursue their passion and strive for excellence.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “Through team sports, I’ve learned the importance of collaboration, communication, and mutual support, fostering lasting friendships and networks. Sport has taught me to overcome obstacles, bounce back from setbacks, push through challenges, developing my mental toughness and resilience. Sport has equipped me with essential life skills, such as time management, goal-setting, adaptability and benefiting me in all aspects of life.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sports?
A: “Utilise social media platforms to create engaging content, promote games, and share highlights. Create eye-catching posters and flyers to advertise games as well as events. Collaborate with social media influencers or student ambassadors to promote varsity sports.”
