DUT–KZNA deal to strengthen sport science in athletics
DUT and KZN Athletics have joined forces to offer practical training opportunities to students while improving the health and performance support for athletes in the province.
DURBAN University of Technology (DUT) students are set to benefit greatly from the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the institution and KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA).
The MOU joins DUT’s Chiropractic Department to KZNA for a period of three years as they work together to boost athlete performance in the province. The partnership will create opportunities for students who will gain hands-on experience while working with athletes in areas such as injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement.
Head of the Department of Chiropractic, Dr Desiree Varatharajullu, said the partnership could lead to many future projects and a mutually beneficial relationship between the institutions.
“We are looking forward to this collaboration as it will provide students with valuable practical experience, allowing them to work directly with athletes and observe a wide range of conditions and injuries that may affect athletes across the province, closely aligning with their academic studies,” said Varatharajullu.
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She credited Dr Grant Matkovich and the entire chiropractic team for their dedication and efforts in making this exciting collaboration possible.
Varatharajullu’s excitement over the partnership was shared by KZNA president Steve Mkasi who said the collaboration introduces a stronger scientific foundation within athletics to enhance the competitiveness of athletes in the province.
He explained that the partnership integrates a scientific dimension into athletics, enhancing athletes’ health, performance, fitness, and recovery from injuries.
“It also provides a platform for athletes to pursue academic advancement alongside their sporting careers. In addition, our coaches will benefit from a deeper understanding of the scientific principles underpinning sport, enabling them to refine and elevate their training methodologies,” added Mkasi.
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