As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates that will participate productively in the development of our region, country and the world. S’bonelo Dlamini, DUT Communication’s team member, recently engaged with the DUT aerobics team captain, Sandile Sibisi to share his student experience through sports and academics and how he lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Sandile Sibisi
Place of birth: Eshowe
Sport code: Aerobics
Qualification: Business and Information Management
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I joined DUT Aerobics during my first year around March of 2023.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I wanted to lose weight and I like aerobics because it is a team sport which is what I enjoy as my strength is in teamwork.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what is entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “In aerobics we don’t have specific positions for someone. However, as a team captain for aerobics my role is to teach my teammates about aspects such as how to move on the floor with music, mental fitness and physically fitness.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Netball, it is all about working together as a team in order for one to win and achieving the team’s goal.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I have participated in the University Sport South Africa as well as the Netball Male Super League.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “Sport assists students by being healthy, building teamwork skills, improves communication and relieves stress.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “My role model is Lethu Thusi, who is an fitness guru. She taught me the importance of exercising, muscle building and keeping my body fit and healthy.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I mostly associate with respect, because it’s essential to respect my teammates and opponents.”
Q: Do you see a future in aerobics?
A: “Yes, I would like to continue with aerobics and maybe even become an aerobics instructor one day.”
Q: As a DUT star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “As an aerobics player, I inspire young and elderly people in my community to play sport and stay active.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “Sport has taught me discipline, teamwork and achieving my goals.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sports?
A: “We can promote varsity sport through social media, promote sport through small events, such as mini-bootcamps or maybe have fun activities during games.”
