Bloemfontein – The Central University of Technology (CUT) hosted its first-ever Sports Awards on 16 October, celebrating the outstanding achievements of student-athletes across multiple sporting codes from October 2024 to September 2025.
The landmark event highlighted CUT’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded graduates who embody the institution’s ‘Thinking Beyond’ ethos, recognising that sport plays a vital role in promoting holistic student well-being whilst paving pathways for successful athletic careers.
From gold medals in athletics and international podium finishes in boccia to national league triumphs in cheerleading and volleyball, CUT’s athletes demonstrated that hard work, discipline, and passion lead to greatness.
Legacy of Champions
CUT’s sporting legacy extends far beyond current students, with alumni continuing to shine on national and international stages. Icons such as Os du Randt, André Venter, and Zola Budd Pieterse began their sporting journeys at CUT before representing South Africa with distinction.
Today, stars including Trevor Nyakane, Jasper Wiese, and Pite van Biljon continue to carry the CUT flag high in professional rugby and cricket arenas.
Season Highlights
The CUT Volleyball Club maintained excellence at national level, securing a top-10 position by finishing seventh at the University Sport South Africa (USSA) championships in both 2024 and 2025. The team qualified for the Zone VI Club Championship, placing the university amongst the volleyball elite of Southern Africa.
The rugby team achieved a spectacular victory against the University of Cape Town (current champions) in a home fixture. The Ixias participated in the Varsity Cup Rugby Competition, securing a commendable second position amongst top-performing rugby universities.
Football and netball teams also excelled, with the men’s football squad qualifying for the 2025 Varsity Football Competition. The netball team qualified for the 2026 Varsity Netball Competition and won the Mangaung League, whilst the CUT Ixias Ladies FC (U20) were crowned Provincial Champions of the Engen Knockout Tournament.
Championship Success
CUT excelled at the USSA Tournament, securing first position for both All-Girls and Co-Educational teams, earning gold medals in the process.
At the South African Majorette and Cheerleading Association (SAMCA) National Championships in Oudtshoorn, the cheerleading team achieved first position in the Co-Educational Level category, second position in the All-Girls Level 5 category, and second position in the Pom Doubles category.
Individual Excellence
The awards honoured individuals who exemplified core values of teamwork, resilience, and leadership, including:
• Athletics: Kamohelo Mkhabela’s multi-medal wins and national-level performances
• Basketball: CUT athletes selected for the Free State Warriors and provincial leadership roles
• Boccia: Karabo Morapeli’s national and international podium finishes
Vision for the Future
As the university continues advancing its Vision 2030 agenda, initiatives such as the CUT Sports Awards serve as powerful reminders that excellence is multidimensional, thriving not only in classrooms but also on playing fields and within communities.
The celebration represented more than ceremony—it was a testament to sport’s vital role in shaping confident, well-rounded graduates ready to take on the world and make history.
Through its commitment to excellence both on and off the field, CUT continues shaping champions in sport, character, and life.
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