Women’s Volleyball Team Clinches Second Consecutive Title at USSA Games

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The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Women’s Volleyball team has claimed gold at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Games, making it a back-to-back triumph after also winning the title in 2025.

The two-time champions defended their title by defeating the Durban University of Technology in the final, in which three junior athletes made their first-ever final appearance.

The junior athletes were Ms Anele Masondo, Ms Hannah Enoch, and Ms Sreya Rajagopal.

Head Coach Mr Marcellino Harold said preparations for this year’s USSAs differed significantly from those in 2025. “Last year, we had a team of experienced senior players, many of whom have since graduated and left the University. This year, we welcomed several first-year players, creating a mix of experienced and new talent. We had to prepare differently by building the younger players’ confidence and helping them believe they could win the tournament, and that became the focus of our training sessions.”

Harold said winning the games for the second time in a row was more emotional and rewarding, as they had to find the right balance to make the team dynamics work.

Despite being a hard taskmaster, he was praised by co-captains Ms Busisiwe Maposa and Ms Selina Naidoo for his understanding nature, belief in the team, and exceptional coaching style.

Maposa, who has served as captain for three years, said training was more intense this year, particularly for the senior players, with the team playing six games to qualify for the USSAs, and mentoring the juniors.

Commenting on their win, she said, “We worked hard, did our best, and had fun along the way. Our team spirit is what really pulled us through!”

Three students were selected to represent the national team: Ms Bontle Finger, Ms Vishaya Naidoo, and Ms Jadene Moodley.

In addition, three special awards were presented to UKZN students: Ms Busisiwe Maposa was named Best Attacker, Ms Vishaya Naidoo received the Best Blocker award, and Ms Jadene Moodley was recognised as Best Libero.

Harold said that while the team was enjoying a well-deserved rest now, they looked forward to getting back on the saddle and preparing for the Tongaat Opens at the end of July, as well as the National Club Championships thereafter.

He also acknowledged co-captains Maposa and Naidoo for leading the team to victory for the second consecutive time and for helping guide the young players.

Congratulating the team for their outstanding performance on a national stage, Dr Normah Zondo, Executive Director of the Corporate Relations Division, said UKZN was proud of their achievements.

“For our women’s team to win the USSA title for a second consecutive year is an outstanding achievement. It reflects their dedication, resilience, and the culture of excellence that defines UKZN. Sport remains an integral part of the University’s commitment to developing well-rounded graduates, and accomplishments such as these demonstrate what can be achieved when talent is nurtured and supported. We are especially proud of the three students selected for the national team and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Photograph: Supplied