The Central University of Technology’s (CUT) Operational Sports Department hosted its first-ever Sports Awards ceremony on 16 October, honouring the outstanding achievements of the institution’s student-athletes across multiple sporting codes.
The university prides itself on nurturing well-rounded graduates while paving the way for talented athletes to pursue their sports as potential careers.
CUT’s student-athletes secured gold medals in athletics, international podium finishes in boccia, and league triumphs in cheerleading and volleyball. The inaugural ceremony celebrated these remarkable accolades.
Highlights of the year included:
• Volleyball: The CUT Volleyball Club maintained its national excellence, securing a Top 10 position by finishing 7th at USSA in both 2024 and 2025. The team also qualified for the Zone VI Club Championships, placing the university among Southern Africa’s volleyball elite.
• Rugby: The CUT Ixias stunned current champions UCT with a thrilling home victory. The team competed in the Varsity Cup Rugby Competition, finishing a commendable 2nd among the country’s top rugby universities.
• Football and netball: The Men’s Football Team qualified for the 2025 Varsity Football Competition. The Netball Team earned qualification for the 2026 Varsity Netball Competition and clinched the Mangaung League title.
• Women’s football: The CUT Ixias Ladies FC (U20) were crowned Provincial Champions in the Engen Knockout Tournament.
• Cheerleading: CUT’s cheerleaders shone at the South African Majorette and Cheerleading Association (SAMCA) National Championships in Oudtshoorn, winning gold in the CoEd Level category, silver in the All-Girls Level 5 category, and silver in Pom Doubles.
The university recognised teams and individuals not only for their successes but also for their teamwork, resilience, and leadership.
Key individual winners included:
• Athletics: Kamohelo Mkhabela, for multi-medal wins and national-level performances.
• Basketball: CUT athletes selected for the Free State Warriors and provincial leadership roles.
• Boccia: Karabo Morapeli, for national and international podium finishes.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
warren@mahareng.co.za
