The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Supa Pool team hosted the 2026 Super Pool League Awards Day on Friday, 6 November 2026, at Mansfield Hall, Ritson Campus, celebrating student participation, dedication and achievement in the sport of pool.
Held under the theme “Students Driving Sports Transformation”, the event recognised the achievements of student players and highlighted the role of sport in developing leadership, promoting active participation and contributing to social transformation within the university community.
The programme featured a keynote address by Mr Bongani Yengwa, Manager of Sports Administration in the Sports and Recreation Division, under the theme “Beyond the Qualification: Empowering Students to Lead, Serve and Transform Society.” His address encouraged students to view sport as an opportunity to develop leadership skills, build confidence and make a meaningful contribution beyond their academic pursuits.
Yengwa urged players to remain optimistic, prepare themselves and make the most of the opportunities ahead, particularly as DUT’s pool team prepares to be registered under University Sport South Africa (USSA), opening the possibility of competing against teams from other tertiary institutions.
“Prepare and know that you are ready. Go there and compete, and compete to be at the table. Don’t compete for the sake of competing. I am saying this because many of you will be competing for the first time,” said Yengwa.
The ceremony also provided an opportunity for players to reflect on their experiences and the growth of pool at DUT. Messages of encouragement were shared by senior Supa Pool player Mr Aphelele Ndabazandile, followed by reflections from Ms Londeka Hadebe, Secretary of the DUT Super Pool Committee, and Mr Phiwayinkosi Khuzwayo, Chairperson of the committee.
Hadebe thanked the players for their participation and commitment throughout the league, acknowledging their contribution to making the event a success.
“I would like to thank each and every one of you for making this event possible. I appreciate the discipline and commitment you have shown since the league started until this point,” she said.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes and awards, recognising players for their performances throughout the league. The awards were presented by Mr Bonani Yengwa and Mr Thubalethu Phaku from the Sports and Recreation Division, with players recognised according to their final league positions, from 25th to first place. The Most Improved Player award was also presented.
Addressing the players, Phaku encouraged them to remain focused on their goals and work towards achieving them through discipline and determination.
“You have to be serious, know what you want, and know where you want to go, followed by which steps you want to follow. We want to see you doing that,” he emphasised.
The event concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks by Mr Philani Ntshangase from the ICTS Division.
Through initiatives such as the Super Pool League, DUT continues to create opportunities for students to participate in sport, develop their talents and build a vibrant sporting culture. The team’s anticipated participation in USSA competitions also presents an opportunity for players to represent the University on a broader sporting platform.
Pictured: Award recipients at the 2026 Super Pool League Awards Day.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Sompisi Ntuli
