As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates who will participate productively in the development of the region, country, and the world. S’bonelo Dlamini from the DUT Communications team recently engaged with DUT Football player, Nkosinathi Genius Mtshali, to discuss his student experience through sport and academics, as well as how he lives the DUT Living Values and Principles.
Name: Nkosinathi Genius Mtshali
Place of Birth: Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal
Sport Code: Football/Soccer
Qualification: Business Information Management
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I joined the DUT Men’s Football team in February 2022 during my first year.”
Q: What sparked your interest in football?
A: “Growing up in Empangeni, football was played on every street and field after school. Watching Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana on television made me fall in love with the game. It became a way for me to express myself and bring people together.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate on what it entails and how it benefits the team.
A: “I play as a central midfielder. My role is to link the defense and attack, control the tempo of the game, and support both defending and creating scoring opportunities. This benefits the team because I help maintain possession and keep the team organised under pressure.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I am interested in athletics and rugby. Athletics teaches discipline and personal accountability, which helps improve my fitness for football. Rugby interests me because of the teamwork and physical resilience it builds.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “In 2023, I participated in the Intervarsity Tournament, where we competed against other universities.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “Sport builds leadership, teamwork, discipline, and resilience. For DUT, developing students in sport helps create well-rounded graduates who can contribute to society beyond academics. It also promotes health and a sense of belonging on campus.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “My role model is Thembinkosi Lorch because we share similar characteristics and play in similar positions. He has worked his way up through discipline and consistency. I also admire his passion for fashion, as I also value presenting myself well.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Transparency and Honesty: On the field and in class, you must be accountable for your actions. Respect: Respect for teammates, opponents, and coaches is what makes a team function effectively. Compassion: Football is a team sport, and no one succeeds alone. Being compassionate means supporting one another both in sport and academics.”
Q: Do you see a future in your sport?
A: “Yes, I do. I hope to become a professional football player in the future.”
Q: As a DUT sports star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “I encourage young and upcoming players to focus on both their academics and their sporting talent.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “Sport has taught me discipline, time management, and resilience. It is one of the reasons I passed my first year despite a demanding training schedule. It has also given me confidence and a network of people who motivate me to become better.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sports?
A: “I think varsity sports need to create an exciting atmosphere that students and the community can enjoy. Having live DJs, student performances, and giveaways during halftime can make match days more entertaining. DUT can also encourage student engagement by offering free entry with student cards and organising inter-faculty challenges to build school spirit. Social media also plays a big role, sharing live clips, player spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content can help build excitement before games. Another great idea would be to host community days where local high schools and football clubs are invited to participate in curtain-raiser matches before the main event.”
