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History was made when the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) men’s and women’s goalball teams competed in their first national tournament outside KwaZulu-Natal.
Hosted by the North-West University (NWU) and organised by Goalball Federation South Africa (GFSA), the tournament brought together seven teams from across the country, marking a significant milestone in UKZN’s efforts to revive and develop sport for students with disabilities.
The participating teams were UKZN, NWU, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Tshwane North Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College (TNC), South West Gauteng College (SWGC), the University of Limpopo (UL) and Optima College.
UKZN’s women’s team faced tough opposition in their opening matches, losing 6-2 to Optima College and 8-3 to TNC. However, they showed improvement against TUT, pushing their opponents in a closely contested match that TUT won 7-5. The performance demonstrated growing confidence, stronger communication and improved teamwork among the developing squad.
The men’s team began their campaign positively, defeating SWGC 6-2 before securing a narrow 4-3 victory against Optima College. They later lost 5-3 to SWGC in a challenging encounter, gaining valuable exposure to national level competition.
Although neither UKZN team reached the medal matches, the tournament allowed players to experience different tactical approaches to attacking, defending, positioning and ball tracking. It also highlighted areas for improvement as the teams continue to develop their skills and prepare for future competitions.
UKZN coach Mr Phiwayinkosi Mungwe described the tournament as a highly valuable experience for players and coaching staff. “It was incredibly rewarding to witness the remarkable growth of UKZN goalball players. We saw the potential in our players and identified areas requiring more work. National competition is different from training, and the players now understand what is expected at this level,” said Mungwe.
He added that the team would use the experience to strengthen training, develop players and prepare for future tournaments.
Assistant coach Mr Derrick Munyai highlighted the value of competing against experienced teams, noting that the players had gained a clearer understanding of the standards required at national level. The team will focus on improving tactics, defending, throwing and decision-making.
Team manager Dr Khumbuzile Khumalo said the tournament was an important milestone for UKZN goalball, and lauded the players’ courage, discipline and determination.
“We are extremely proud of our players. Every match was a learning opportunity, and this experience will help us build stronger teams for the future,” she said.
Khumalo also encouraged female students to participate confidently in sport, urging them not to allow fear to limit their aspirations.
The revival of disability sport at UKZN in 2026 has created opportunities for students to develop their abilities, build confidence and represent the University in competitive sporting environments. Goalball is among the sporting codes supporting this renewed commitment to inclusive participation.
Khumalo thanked UKZN’s Sport Officer Ms Nosipho Tenza, Head of Sport Mr Zwelithethindaba Sapula, and Disability Support Unit Line Manager Mr Amith Ramballie for their support as well as the coaching team for its dedication.
Both teams returned with greater confidence, a clearer understanding of national competition and renewed determination to improve.
Their debut marks the beginning of a promising journey towards establishing UKZN goalball as a competitive force while expanding opportunities for students with disabilities to participate and excel in sport.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Supplied