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 Volleyball Coach, Mr Mthokozisi Mndingi to share his experience through sports and how he lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Mr Mthokozisi Mndingi
Place of Birth: Hambanathi Township, Tongaat
Sport Code: Volleyball
Q: When did you become part of DUT Volleyball team?
A: “ I was appointed at the coach of DUT Volleyball team in 2021.”
Q: What sparked your interest in the DUT Volleyball team?
A: “It is the passion that I have for this lovely game. I saw the opportunity to help the institution to revive the team. My aim was to build the team to go back to competing at the Nationals.”
Q: In terms of the role you play as a volleyball coach, kindly elaborate what is entails and how it benefits the players within your team?
A: “I am the female’s coach. My role encompasses the development of players’ skills and strategies, team management, and mentorship. I’m responsible for planning and leading practices, analysing opponents, and motivating athletes.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I’m a person of all sports as I love and appreciates what it does to all athletes in their respective sport codes. However, to choose one or two, I would say soccer and cricket as I’ve played them myself growing up.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “Just to name a few, it would be World Students Games, Olympics Qualification, FIVB Challengers and the U23 African Nations.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “Simply because this is where most athletes stand a better opportunity to become professionals and given the opportunity to be seen by professional teams and also the opportunity to work on your Diploma, Degree etc. In a way if one may not be that successful academically, there’s always another alternative to choose another career as a professional athlete.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “Leo Williams! Fortunately he motivated me to love volleyball even more, besides that he has continued to teach me the importance of life too.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I resonate with all because they are part of one’s personal living values.”
Q: Do you see a future as a volleyball coach?
A: “Yes, simply because of the passion I have for the game and helping kids change their lives will also be my other way to motive and to keep coaching this beautiful game of volleyball.”
Q: What impact has volleyball made on your life?
A: “I’ve learned a lot from the game inside and outside the volleyball court. I also got to travel the world, meet different people, experience their cultures, learn more about volleyball and life generally from a different perspective.
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “I would say through social media and inviting more students when there tournaments hosted by the DUT.”
Pictured: DUT Volleyball Coach, Mr Mthokozisi Mndingi.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
