A University of Zululand (UNIZULU) student and volleyball sensation, Nomkhosi Mathula (24), has etched her name in the history books after accomplishing a record-breaking feat in this year’s Volleyball South Africa Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPTs), hosted recently at Wits University in Johannesburg.
Before stepping onto the IPT stage, Mathula had received a call-up from the provincial volleyball team to represent KwaZulu-Natal in the tournament, making her the first UNIZULU student ever to don the KZN Volleyball Team jersey at a national level.
Carrying the hopes of the KwaZulu-Natal Province, King Cetshwayo District Municipality and UNIZULU, the Empangeni-born talented student athlete faced-off against South Africa’s top provincial teams. Regardless of the challenge, Mathula and her team rose to the task at hand, clinching third place and proudly bringing home the bronze medal.
Reminiscing on her experience, Mathula said she was still reliving the unforgettable moments.
“Experiencing this for the first time is special. I was thrilled by the experience. It felt surreal because I met incredible people there. I was so inspired,” she said.
Mathula shared that her unwavering dedication and passion for the sport, along with her standout performance and active presence in local tournaments, caught the eye of provincial scouts.
Elaborating on the selection process, she said, “The first step was being selected among the top 18 players to attend trials. Following a successful trial, I was promoted to the final squad of 14 players to represent the province in the IPT Championships.”
Reacting to this incredible milestone, Sports Administrator in the institution’s Department of Sport and Recreation, Lucas Ledwaba, said, “The Department commends Nomkhosi for her outstanding performance in earning a bronze medal at the championships. Her accomplishment brings pride to the institution and highlights the value of discipline and dedication in sport. Achieving 3rd position demonstrates competitive excellence and motivates fellow students to participate in sports while pursuing their personal best actively.”
In addition, Ledwada said Mathula’s achievement is indeed a historical milestone for the UNIZULU Volleyball Club. In his opinion, her success is a source of pride for the University and serves as an inspiration to current student-athletes and future generations, demonstrating that hard work, commitment and perseverance can lead to success at the highest levels of the sport.
Speaking on her short-term goal, Mathula said, “I wish to play for South Africa and I hope that dream comes true.”
