By Katleho Chitja
BLOEMFONTEIN – University of the Free State (UFS) athlete Mthi Mthimkulu emerged as the biggest winner at the annual Kovsie Sport Awards, scooping both Sportsman of the Year and Sports Star of the Year in recognition of his outstanding performances on the track.
The awards ceremony was held at Callie Human Hall on 16 October, bringing together university leadership, sports officials and athletes to celebrate achievements across various sporting disciplines during the year.
UFS Director of Kovsie Sport Jerry Laka welcomed guests, highlighting the significance of hosting the awards on the university’s campus for the first time in many years.
“For the first time in many years, we are hosting our Sports Awards right here at Callie Human Hall – on the soil of the University of the Free State, on our own campus and among our own students, where it truly belongs. We have brought the stars back home,” said Laka.
He said the decision aligned with the university’s strategic goals and values, emphasising the importance of recognising athletes in the environment where they study, train and compete.
The keynote address was delivered by UFS Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Hester C. Klopper. Other speakers included athlete Khanyisa Chawane, Free State MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Ntombizanele Sifuba, and Executive Director of Student Affairs, Sport, Arts and Culture Dr Temba Hlasho.
Mthimkulu’s achievements included winning silver for South Africa in the men’s 4x400m relay at the World Athletics Relays, contributing to a new South African record, and reaching the semi-finals of the 400m at the Commonwealth Championships.
Reflecting on his success, Mthimkulu acknowledged the support of several organisations and coaches who contributed to his development as an athlete.
“I would say it’s not only the university. There are a lot of other parties outside the university also helping us, like the Free State Science Institute, the Academy of Sport and our private coaches, who collaborate with us to help us perform better and reach our goals,” he said.
Other award recipients included Dingaan Matlebe, who won Parasport Sportsman of the Year, and Naledi Nhlapo, who received the Parasport Sportswoman of the Year award.
Gabriella Marais was named Sportswoman of the Year, while Owami Mohuli received the Junior Sport Star of the Year award. Babalwa Treasure was recognised as Student Sport Administrator of the Year, with Janine de Kock named Sport Administrator of the Year.
Marnus Kleinhans won Coach of the Year in the team sport category, while Marco Markgraaff received the award for individual sports coaching. Natasha Gertenbach was named Student-Athlete of the Year.
Kovsie Tennis claimed Team of the Year, while Kovsie Netball was named Club of the Year.
Laka said the awards reflected the university’s commitment to developing student-athletes who excel both academically and in their respective sporting disciplines.
“The event is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the achievements of student-athletes, coaches, teams and support staff. We’re committed to developing a well-rounded student-athlete who excels academically and in their respective sports disciplines,” he said.
