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 hockey star, Alwande Nkosi to share her student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Alwande Nkosi
Place of birth: Newcastle KZN
Sport code: Hockey
Qualification: Diploma in Management Science: Business Law
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I joined in 2023 but I didn’t stay long, I then came back in 2024.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I didn’t have an initial spark it was something that grew over time in the 15 years I have been playing.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what is entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “I play a forward and blocker position, these two positions are essentially the goal scorers. It is a position where a player must get the ball forward, and away from their own box after the defenders and obviously you can’t win without goals.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A:” I have always had an interest in rugby ever since the Springboks won the 2019 Rugby World Cup.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “My biggest tournament wasn’t a DUT tournament but it was the Gauteng Provincial team selections.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “As students, academic pressure is already weighing heavy on us but with sports, it can help distress and give a clear mind which will improve in studying.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A:” My friend, Samkelo Radebe, he was the one who encouraged me to come back and play for DUT in 2024. Not only is he a good friend but he is a fantastic hockey player, one of the best that I know.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I associate myself with excellence, because I constantly strive to be better than me. This means that I am always working towards being my best self.”
Q: Do you see a future in Hockey
A: “Maybe not as a player but I do see one with me on the sides, rather as an umpire or coach.”
Q: As a DUT star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “My passion for hockey can inspire young people to get involved in sports, promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles. As a hockey player, I can serve as a positive role model, demonstrating the importance of hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “This sport brings me peace and a calm heart, even though in the game itself things may get heated, at full time I know what ever frustration I had before is now left on the field and no longer with me.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sports?
A: “Tournaments hosted by DUT will definitely attract spectators and even possibly more players.”
