By Levy Masiteng
Two of Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) standout netball players, Nkanyezi Makhubela and Nokwanda Zulu, have once again earned selection to represent KwaZulu-Natal’s Kingdom Queens for the second and third consecutive year at the prestigious Telkom Netball League.
The 2026 edition of the league will take place on home ground at the Fred Crookes Sport Centre on DUT’s Steve Biko campus.
It started on Friday and runs to 2 May.
“Their selection reflects our ongoing dedication to nurturing talent that excels both academically and on the sporting stage,” the university said, adding that hosting the tournament makes the moment even more special for the DUT community.
Makhubela, a third-year Diploma in Somatology student from Glenwood, Durban, will make her second appearance in the league.
“To be one of the players to represent KZN is deeply emotional because it reminds me how far I have come and how much this opportunity means. It pushes me to play with passion and purpose, knowing that I am representing something bigger than myself,” she said.
Makhubela plays the position of defender and joined the DUT netball team in 2021.
Zulu will be making her third appearance in the competition.
The university said the Public Administration graduand from eNseleni in Richards Bay will bring experience, leadership and renewed energy to the squad as she prepares to graduate at DUT’s upcoming autumn ceremony.
“It is super exciting to be back. I hope my presence can actively contribute to my team’s performance as I am always cheering, encouraging, positive and competitive,” Zulu said.
DUT Netball Coordinator Pamela Magubane praised both players for elevating the university’s profile.
She also encouraged supporters to attend the matches in large numbers and rally behind the teams during the tournament.
“We are honoured to be hosting the league at DUT and we urge supporters to come out in large numbers to enjoy the matches and support the teams,” Magubane said.
“I hope my journey will inspire other young ladies to believe in themselves and that their dreams are valid,” Makhubela said.
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