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 Nkosinathi Sikhosana DUT hockey coach, to share his student experience through sports and academics and how he lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Nkosinathi Awande Sikhosana
Place of Birth: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Sport Code: Hockey
Q: When did you become part of DUT hockey team?
A: “I played for DUT in 2022 and I absolutely loved it, the environment was refreshing and it revitalised my passion for hockey. I got the opportunity to play again in 2024 when the coach approached me and the rest is history.”
Q: What sparked your interest in the DUT hockey team?
A: “It gave me the opportunity to share my knowledge and understanding of the game with my fellow peers while continuing to learn, grow, and to develop as a student of hockey myself. It was an experience that allowed me to contribute to others’ growth while deepening my own appreciation and passion for the sport.”
Q: In terms of the role you play as a hockey coach, kindly elaborate what is entails and how it benefits the players within your team?
A: “Preparation, administration, and recruitment lay the groundwork, but a coach’s true purpose is to shape the culture. I am dedicated to creating an environment rooted in growth, learning, and brotherhood, especially for athletes who just need the right opportunity to succeed.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I love football, rugby, cricket, MMA, tennis and basketball. You can learn a lot from different sporting codes, they might be played in different styles but the fundamentals of an athlete and team are the same in all sports.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I have represented my province on multiple occasions at the inter-provincial tournaments.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “DUT has a duty to support student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom. Encouraging fitness on campus promotes healthy living and helps students build lifelong connections. Healthy body, healthy mind.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “Ted Lasso is my hero. He is a fictional TV character and coach who uses his real-life experiences to navigate and solve challenges on the field. He treats everyone with equal respect while adapting his style to fit different personalities.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Integrity, respect and accountability stand out for me. I believe we all should hold ourselves accountable to the values and principles we have set and create a foundation for lasting success.”
Q: Do you see a future as a hockey coach?
A: Yes,, I believe I have a great future as a coach.”
Q: What impact has hockey made on your life?
A: “I would not be where I am at without this sport I love. It has become more than just a sport to me, it is my daily bread, motivation and lifestyle. As a hockey coach, my goal now is to open more doors for others than were ever opened for me.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “DUT should establish an official student supporters club to increase the campus game-day experience. By introducing elements like a live student marching band and an energetic cheerleading squad, the university will give every student a chance to actively contribute to the school spirit, transforming sports matches into must-attend campus events that everyone wants to be part of.”
