As sporting activities gradually resume at UMP, Mr Mnyambo encourages students to engage in sports as part of a balanced and enriching university experience. He explains that sport strengthens campus culture and builds connections among students.
“Sport creates a sense of belonging, especially for students who may feel lost when they first arrive at university. It brings students together across faculties and backgrounds, while instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, resilience and accountability that extend beyond the field into academic and personal life,” he says.
Having joined UMP as a student athlete, Mr Mnyambo later served as a Sports and Recreation Officer under the Student Representative Council. Today, he contributes as both an academic and a coach. His journey illustrates the long-term impact of sport on personal and professional development, demonstrating how student involvement can evolve into leadership and mentorship within the institution.
He emphasises that early involvement is particularly important for first-year students adjusting to a new academic and social environment.
“Getting involved in sport from the beginning helps students settle in faster, build resilience and create lasting connections. It supports mental well-being and teaches time management skills that benefit them academically,” he notes.
Participation in sport at UMP has become a vital part of their academic and personal journey.
Under his leadership, the UMP ladies’ football team has grown significantly, competing strongly in university competitions while increasing participation and professionalism. For Mr Mnyambo, these achievements reflect the broader development of sport at UMP and the continued advancement of opportunities for women in sport.
He encourages students not to let fear or self-doubt prevent them from participating, noting that university sport is not only about talent but about growth, development, and opportunity.
For many student-athletes, participation in sport at UMP has become a vital part of their academic and personal journey. Lethabo Ndlovu, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture student and team member, credits sport for helping her develop life skills.
“Sport has helped me with time management, teamwork, discipline and building friendships. Do not worry if you are not the best. It is about enjoying the experience and being part of a team. You will grow so much, both on and off the field,” she says.
Final-year Bachelor of Commerce student Lumka Ramushu highlights how sport has helped her balance academics with competition while fostering a strong sense of community. “One of my proudest moments was representing UMP in league competitions during 2024. It has been awesome to be part of a team that is all about pushing each other to be our best. Those moments make all the hard work worth it,” she says, adding that sport was a game-changer in her university journey.
The UMP ladies’ football team has grown significantly under coach Mnyambo's leadership.
For Ragosebo Lucky Mashilo, a third-year Bachelor of Development Studies student, sport has provided opportunities for achievement and personal transformation.
“Being selected to participate in the University Sport South Africa Tournaments in 2025 remains one of my most significant highlights. Participating in sport has allowed me to grow not only as an athlete but also as an individual. Joining a sports club helps you grow personally and academically while developing valuable skills such as teamwork, discipline and time management. It also creates friendships that can shape your entire university experience,” she says.
Mr Mnyambo adds that students interested in joining the Ladies’ Football team – or any other sporting code – should attend scheduled training sessions or visit the UMP Sports offices for information on registration procedures, training schedules, and upcoming trials.
“UMP Sport is open to all students who are willing to learn, grow and become part of a supportive environment. Sport is not only about competition but about development, connection, and creating a meaningful university experience,” he concludes.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.