After losing several experienced players to graduation, the UKZN Women’s Volleyball team faced the daunting task of rebuilding. It worked in their favour as the new-look side proved champions aren’t built overnight by defending its University Sports South Africa (USSA) Games title.

UKZN claimed a second consecutive USSA championship after defeating DUT in the final, completing a remarkable title defence with a squad that blended experienced campaigners and first-year talent.

Three junior players, Anele Masondo, Hannah Enoch, and Sreya Rajagopal made their first-ever USSA final appearances as part of the championship-winning side. UKZN coach Marcellino Harold said this year’s preparations were vastly different from those that led to the team’s first title in 2025.

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“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 retaining the title was even more emotional than winning it the first time because of the challenge of finding the right balance within a largely rebuilt squad. The coach also credited co-captains Busisiwe Maposa and Selina Naidoo for guiding the younger players while leading the team to a second straight championship.

The team’s success extended beyond the gold medal. Bontle Finger, Vishaya Naidoo and Jadene Moodley were selected to represent the national team, while UKZN also swept up three individual awards.

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Maposa was named Best Attacker, Naidoo received the Best Blocker award and Moodley was recognised as Best Libero. With little time to celebrate, Harold said the team will soon shift its focus to the Tongaat Open later this month before preparing for the National Club Championships.

Congratulating the team, Executive Director of UKZN’s Corporate Relations Division Dr Normah Zondo said the team retaining their championship status for a second consecutive year reflects on their dedication and resilience.

“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,” said Zondo. “We are especially proud of the three students selected for the national team and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”

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